Dispersed camping opportunities near Nedrow, New York are primarily found within Morgan Hill State Forest, located about 15 minutes south of the city. This 5,344-acre woodland sits at elevations ranging from 1,200-2,000 feet, creating varied terrain for primitive camping experiences. Morgan Hill Forest operates under New York State Department of Environmental Conservation regulations, which permit backcountry camping with specific restrictions on site selection and stay duration.
What to do
Hiking the Onondaga Trail: Access the North Country National Scenic Trail system from the Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground, where you can set up camp and explore connecting trails. "This is a small state forest campground in the Morgan Hill forest from which you can directly access the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail," notes Janet R., who adds that "hiking the trail west on a day trip will bring you to the beautiful Tinker Falls."
Fishing at local ponds: Cast a line at Spruce Pond Camping Area within Morgan Hill State Forest, which offers ten established primitive sites directly on the water. "This is a group of ten established and well maintained primitive campsites right on Spruce Pond with fishing available and an amazing network of hiking and cross country ski trails," according to Janet R., who mentions that "you can easily paddle or fish on the pond."
Swimming in natural pools: Take advantage of the swimming areas at Fillmore Glen State Park Campground, about 30 minutes southwest of Nedrow. "A beautiful little park. Wonderful trails, swimming pool, and activities for kids," writes Gabrielle C., while Kim B. notes that "swimming is only allowed in certain parts and there are some pretty steep drop offs so watch the kids close."
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: Campers frequently mention the unique swimming experiences at several campgrounds near Nedrow. At Green Lakes State Park Campground, Kenneth S. says, "The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands." Sara H. adds that "the beach is great. You cannot bring your own kayaks you have to rent."
Private camping spots with water views: Waterfront sites provide solitude and scenic views. At Verona Beach State Park Campground, Rachelle W. describes how "campground sits on the edge of Lake Oneida with a nice camper's beach and trail on the lake front." She appreciated that "sites are spacious and this one was right on the lake's edge." Heather E. confirms the waterfront setting: "Right on water…can't drive on path in front of the water sites so you are essentially on the water."
Access to farm-fresh products: Camping in this agricultural region means fresh local food. Near Woonton Family Farms, visitors enjoy farm-direct produce. Willemien V. describes "an excellent stay at the farm of the Woonton Family Farms with our RV, it was a cozy and beautiful campsite with personal attention of the owner. We had a great campfire, fresh blackberries and the option of canoeing."
What you should know
Limited facilities at forest sites: Most dispersed camping areas lack amenities. Janet R. notes about Morgan Hill Forest that "you DO need to come prepared to use the bushes by your campsite and leave no trace, plus bring your own water." She warns campers should "be prepared for ticks and the need for repellent as they are thick in spring and early summer."
Campground noise levels: Sound carries between sites at many campgrounds. At Oneida Shores County Park, Margaret C. reports that police patrol frequently: "They left to return to their camper around 10pm. They were met at their site with flashlights in the face. Two cops questioned them separately asking if they were lost." At Fillmore Glen, Kayleigh K. cautions that "we were the only tent campers around and the RV groups were loud late and early. We struggled to sleep because of the noise."
Shower facility quality varies: Many campers mention shower quality as a deciding factor. At Green Lakes State Park, Chelsea B. warns "as clean as the bathrooms are, the showers still suck. I'll never understand why parks use the misting shower heads... It's best to use the ADA bathrooms because those shower heads are normal and have wands."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds and splash pads: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly play areas. At Verona Beach State Park, Joe D. mentions "the kids love to hang out at the splash pad and the state recently revamped some of the playgrounds." Carl G. adds that though "lake is dirty but they had a nice splash pad for the kids."
Consider cabins for easier family camping: For families wanting more comfort, cabin options exist at some parks. At Green Lakes State Park, Sheri S. notes advantages like "bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground." She highlights kid-friendly features: "The beach area is wide and shallow in most areas. In close proximity to the store and snack shop (ICE CREAM)."
Choose campsites with direct trail access: Some campgrounds offer immediate trail access for family exploration. At Nature Lover's Paradise, visitors appreciate having "access to a vast network of trails" with "70 acres of hiking trails" right from their tent site, making it easy for families to enjoy short nature walks without driving.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Look for campgrounds with complete services. At Green Lakes State Park, Cindy H. states "There are many sites with electric available at every site. There are some sites with full hook-up available and also specific areas that allow pets." Sheri S. adds that "this state park campground is one of the few that offer full hook ups."
Site spacing and layout: RVers should check site dimensions before booking. At Pleasant Lake Campground, Victoria B. notes "The RV sites are spacious enough that you don't feel like you are too close," while Ryan G. finds the "location to have very clean sites with plenty of amenities. Had no issues with the Wi-Fi watching Bills games and play a few video games."
Stay aware of maintenance schedules: Some campgrounds perform maintenance during camping season. At Green Lakes, Chelsea B. reports they "spent at least 5-6 hours the Monday we were here mowing around our campsite, coming within inches of our power and Starlink cords. Really annoyed by that and when we called the park office, they said they'd take care of it but we still endured 4 more hours of multiple mowers."
