The state forests near New Berlin, New York offer primitive camping opportunities across nearly 30,000 acres of public land. Elevations range from 1,100 to 1,900 feet, creating diverse microclimates throughout the region. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March, with summer highs typically reaching the mid-70s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bear Wallow Pond provides access to multiple fishing spots within Pharsalia Woods. "I have been there in both summer, when the shoreline wildflowers are riotous, and in fall when the changing leaves are breathtaking. If you camp here, you can kayak or fish on the pond," notes one visitor.
Birdwatching: Round Pond Pharsalia Woods features an accessible boardwalk perfect for wildlife observation. A camper highlights it as "a beautiful and accessible raised boardwalk to a unique overlook that has a beautiful vista over the bog and is an amazing place for birdwatching especially during spring migration."
Hiking networks: State forests contain interconnected trail systems ranging from easy walks to challenging terrain. At Morgan Hill Forest, "you can directly access the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail. Hiking the trail west on a day trip will bring you to the beautiful Tinker Falls, which may not be flowing during dry seasons but is still a gorge worth exploring!"
What campers like
Natural isolation: The remoteness of these areas appeals to those seeking free camping near New Berlin without crowds. In Whaupaunaucau State Forest, a camper notes, "This is a relatively unknown oasis outside of the county, but this state forest has a network of miles of trails for both hiking and criss country skiing."
Wildlife encounters: The varied ecosystems support diverse animal species. "You might try to hike the trail for day use... the brook is beautiful and unspoiled," shares a visitor to Bucks Brook State Forest, where the stream "carves a beautiful gorge through Bucks Brook State Forest before it cascades into the Otselic River."
Flexibility: No reservation requirements means spontaneous trips are possible. At Long Pond Campground, a camper reports, "I am planning on staying here for a week or more and I see no reason to find another location as there is no fee or permit needed and you can stay up to 14 days I believe."
What you should know
Limited amenities: These primitive sites lack basic facilities. "You need to come prepared to use the bushes by your campsite and leave no trace, plus bring your own water," warns a camper at Morgan Hill Forest. Similarly, at Long Pond: "There is no water or garbage services at this site."
Road conditions: Access varies significantly by season and recent weather. At Beals Pond State Forest, "After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon."
Campsite variations: Quality and amenities differ between locations. At Balsam Swamp State Forest, "Some of the sites have new picnic tables, some have old tables that are falling apart, and some have none at all. Some have official steel fire rings, some have stone fire rings that are crumbling."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible options: Some sites offer easier access for families with young children. "The camp sites I saw all seemed to be large and level spots all located beneath the tree canopy. Sites seemed disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy," notes a camper at Long Pond Campground.
Wildlife education: The diverse ecosystems provide learning opportunities. At Whaupaunaucau State Forest, "A great place to get away from it all for hiking and camping but it is also a fantastic place to go if you enjoy botanizing or birding, lots of unusual species to see. Just beware of ticks, they are invading the region."
Water activities: Several ponds offer family-friendly paddling opportunities. At Round Pond, "You can also access the bog pond here if using kayaks or canoes. It is like a unique wilderness location for primitive camping, but only 15 minutes from the village of Norwich!"
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most free camping near New Berlin accommodates only small rigs. At Long Pond, campsites are "level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Power considerations: No hookups means planning for self-sufficiency. "We stayed in the space across from the port-a-pottie. The other camping spaces were close enough to see their campfire at night but far enough away that it's still quiet."
Cell service: Connectivity varies dramatically between locations. "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal," reports an RVer at Long Pond, while Pharsalia Woods has similar constraints where the "Trailhead here for the Finger Lakes Trail is blocked by downed trees that seem to have been there for a while."
