Tent camping near New Berlin, New York centers on several state forests within Chenango County, where elevations range from 1,000 to 1,900 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and cold winters, typically receiving 40-50 inches of annual precipitation. State forest access roads in the area remain unplowed during winter months, limiting camping primarily to May through October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several ponds in the Pharsalia Woods Wildlife Management Area are stocked with brook trout. At Jackson Pond Tent Sites, campers can access the water via "a small parking area and trailhead of the Finger Lakes Trail, or via canoe or non-motorized boats from a nearby boat launch to the north."
Hiking connections: The Finger Lakes Trail network links multiple primitive campsites throughout the region. The Ludlow Creek Lean-To Campsite offers "a beautiful primitive hike-in campsite alongside the Ludlow Creek section of the Finger Lakes Trail" that's "perfect for groups or individuals willing to hike in a short distance to this secluded spot."
Paddling access: Several forest ponds allow non-motorized boats. At Bear Wallow Pond, "you can kayak or fish on the pond, go mountain biking on the network of state forest roads that are all part of the Pharsalia Woods Game Refuge, or access the Finger Lakes Trail or Canasawacta Creek Trail."
What campers like
Adirondack shelters: Several sites feature lean-to structures maintained by volunteer groups. The Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite offers a "beautifully maintained primitive group campsite with large Adirondack style lean-to, several picnic tables and fire rings, and firewood provided. Maintained by volunteers of the local Bullthistle Hikers Club."
Solitude and quiet: Many sites see minimal visitor traffic, especially on weekdays. One camper at Charles E. Baker State Forest reported "Camped here on a Thursday night in late September. Only found one designated campsite, which was available, but there's a lot of good space for dispersed camping right nearby."
Multiple access options: Some sites can be reached through different methods. Pharsalia Y Pond "is a hike in stop on the Finger Lakes Trail, but can also be accessed by a short walk-in from Elmer Jackson Rd, or by paddling in from the parking area in the west side of the pond."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some tent sites in wildlife management areas require advance permits. For Jackson Pond, "Camping in this DEC Wildlife Management Area is limited, and requires a permit. Visit the regional DEC office at 1285 Fisher Ave., Cortland NY or call 607-753-3095, or email at Info.R7@dec.ny.gov; allow one week for permit to be processed."
Water treatment: Natural sources require filtration. At the Pharsalia Y Pond, "This is a primitive campsite, no shelter or latrine but there are several fire rings and good tent sites as well as a gentle water access right on the shore."
Road conditions: Some access roads present challenges. In the Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed area, "The road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintenance road. But if you follow the road north to the end, you will come to a dead end and a parking circle."
Tips for camping with families
Easier access sites: Some locations require minimal hiking for equipment transport. The Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite "is adjacent to a small parking area and fishing access on a really beautiful pond" and could make "a peaceful pretty wooded spot not far from either Norwich or South Otselic for an easy overnight or weekend."
Weekend planning: Certain locations work well for shorter family trips. One camper noted that Charles E. Baker State Forest has "Beautiful forest with miles of trails. I found this spot passing through on my bike and had no problem pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the woods."
Seasonal highlights: Different seasons offer unique experiences. At Bear Wallow Pond, one camper has "been there in both summer, when the shoreline wildflowers are riotous, and in fall when the changing leaves are breathtaking."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most primitive sites in the area accommodate tents only. While Charles E. Baker State Forest technically allows RVs, one reviewer noted the campsite "consists of a fire pit and picnic table" and is "access at the end of a long, but well maintained, dirt road" which may be challenging for larger vehicles.
Alternative options: For those requiring more amenities, look to surrounding areas. Grandpa's Back 40 Glamping provides more comfortable accommodations with "drinking water, fires allowed, firewood, picnic tables, showers, toilets, and trash service" for those wanting amenities closer to New Berlin.
Seasonal access: Road conditions affect RV accessibility during wet seasons. The region's clay-based soils and unpaved forest roads can become impassable for larger vehicles after heavy rainfall or during spring thaw periods.
