Dispersed camping near Mottville, New York provides options for backcountry enthusiasts in the Finger Lakes region's mixed hardwood forests. The area sits between 1,000-1,500 feet elevation, creating moderate hiking conditions with seasonal temperature variations. Fall camping offers colorful foliage viewing while spring brings increased rainfall and potentially muddy forest roads.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Sugar Hill Recreation Area features designated trails for equestrians with adequate parking for trailers. According to a visitor, "People bring their horses. You can drive to to your site and tent camp or camper camp," making it suitable for both overnight riders and day trips.
Fishing opportunities: Long Pond Campground provides multiple fishing access points with productive catches. A camper noted, "People have driven in to fish and kayak so I don't feel isolated and afraid, and I am just a few steps away from sitting on the dock and admiring the scenery." The pond supports multiple species and remains a local favorite.
Hiking exploration: Trek through the gorge at Bucks Brook State Forest where primitive tent sites connect to the broader Finger Lakes Trail network. "Bucks Brook carves a beautiful gorge through Bucks Brook State Forest before it cascades into the Otselic River. There are both state forest roads and off road trails to hike on in the area," explains one backpacker.
What campers like
Accessible facilities: Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite offers unexpectedly good amenities for a free campground. Campers appreciate that "26 camp sites with bathrooms! That flush! Very quiet and the sites aren't on top of each other," making it popular for longer stays.
Secluded spots: Remote camping at South Slope Trail Head provides quiet solitude for tent campers seeking minimal contact. One visitor mentioned, "There is one campsite near trail. There was more traffic than I expected. Also there is no cell service," highlighting its off-grid nature.
Budget-friendly options: Many campers appreciate the free primitive camping throughout the region. At Towsley Road Dispersed Camping, a visitor commented it's a "nice place to sleep, good for someone who doesn't want something too off the road," providing easy access without fees.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many forest roads deteriorate seasonally, particularly during spring thaw and after heavy rains. At Foster Pond Camping Area, a visitor noted "The road in (a loop) is steep on both sides (a truck or vehicle with clearance would be helpful but you could also park at the bottom if you needed to)."
Site maintenance varies: Some locations require camper cleanup before setting up. "The site was trashy so we picked up a lot of what we could. A bonus—the site was quiet, roomy and once at the 'top' is quite level," reported a Foster Pond camper.
Limited connectivity: Cell reception varies significantly across camping areas. At Long Pond, a reviewer stated "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal," while another mentioned "T-Mobile service has been exceptional" - showing inconsistent coverage even within the same area.
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed sites: For families with young children, Sugar Hill Recreation Area provides the most reliable facilities. A camper mentioned, "Clean bathrooms with flush toilets. Sign in near bathrooms on arrival. Dogs must be on a leash but I found a spot down the hill to the south where there are no campsites to let them play fetch for a bit."
Pack extra water: Most primitive sites near Mottville require bringing all drinking water. "You DO need to come prepared to use the bushes by your campsite and leave no trace, plus bring your own water," advised one Morgan Hill Forest camper.
Plan activities: Families should prepare entertainment as amenities vary greatly. At Long Pond, "Aside from that this was a short drive in and I was able to score a spot right on the pond next to a dock. People have driven in to fish and kayak so I don't feel isolated and afraid."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for smaller rigs: Long Pond accommodates compact trailers but has limitations. "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel," noted one RV camper.
Solar power challenges: Dense tree cover affects solar panel performance at many primitive sites. At Finger Lakes National Forest, the forested environment requires alternative power solutions or choosing more exposed sites when solar charging is needed.
Road conditions: RVers should research seasonal road access carefully. "The entrance is from state route 13 on Morgan Hill Rd south, adjacent to a very nice farm stand that is a good stop for supplies, and there is a DEC forest sign to mark the turn off from Rt 13," shared one Morgan Hill visitor, noting navigation challenges on unmarked forest roads.
