Dispersed camping options near New Woodstock, New York include sites across several state forests at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 feet. The area receives approximately 40 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush forest conditions but occasionally muddy access roads. These state forests feature a mix of hardwood and conifer stands with numerous small ponds and streams throughout.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Round Pond Pharsalia Woods Dispersed offers excellent fishing in a unique bog ecosystem. "The pond is quite large compared to other area ponds, and there are three accesses for fishing: a regular boat launch with parking lot and dock, a carry-in kayak access near campsite 6, and a handicapped accessible fishing pier near campsite 1."
Botanical exploration: The forests around New Woodstock provide excellent opportunities for plant identification and nature study. At Whaupaunaucau State Forest, one camper noted it's "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."
Trail network exploration: Several state forests offer interconnected trail systems ideal for day hikes from your campsite. In Morgan Hill Forest, the "trails are blazed and have occasional signs, but they crisscross in a confusing network and you can get easily turned around without a map. The woods are beautiful and the trails are well developed."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront access: Long Pond Campground provides direct pond access from many sites. One camper shared, "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, and I am just a few steps away from sitting on the dock and admiring the scenery."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting of these dispersed camping areas provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. At Bear Wallow Pond, a visitor noted "the shoreline wildflowers are riotous" in summer, while fall brings "breathtaking" changing leaves.
Privacy between sites: Many of the rustic camping areas near New Woodstock offer good separation between camping spots. At Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground, a camper noted "this location is peaceful and quiet with mature trees and plenty of distance between neighboring campers, and would be an ideal setting for a group campout."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Dispersed camping in these state forests means truly primitive conditions. At Balsam Swamp State Forest, "if you are coming here primarily for the camping experience you may be disappointed. Though the natural setting is picturesque and secluded, the campground is not well maintained. Some of the sites have new picnic tables, some have old tables that are falling apart, and some have none at all."
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings muddy conditions that can make access challenging without proper vehicles. Ticks are also prevalent in warmer months. One camper warned to "be prepared for ticks and the need for repellent as they are thick in spring and early summer."
Navigation challenges: Forest roads can be confusing and poorly marked. At one Pharsalia Woods access point, "the whole road in is a tough ride, it is posted extensively en route that you are passing private property with no trespassing allowed until you see the DEC sign announcing the border of the state forest."
Tips for camping with families
Select developed sites: When camping with children, consider using the more established primitive sites. At Long Pond, "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."
Bring entertainment: These rustic sites have no built-in recreational facilities, so pack accordingly. A camper at Long Pond noted, "Aside from fishing there isn't much to do as there aren't designated hiking trails here, though you could drive a few miles away to access some truck trails."
Plan for bathroom needs: Only a few rustic camping areas have toilet facilities. At Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods, "this is a primitive undeveloped campsite, there is a clearing for tenting but no potable water or amenities of any kind."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites near New Woodstock can only accommodate smaller 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: Solar-dependent RVers may struggle with the heavy forest canopy at most sites. One RVer noted, "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal."
Road conditions: Forest roads accessing these sites vary widely in quality and maintenance. A camper accessing Grover Brown Road found "the road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintenance road."
