State forests around Norwich, New York offer numerous primitive camping options across varied terrain from 1,200 to 2,000 feet elevation. These dispersed sites span forests with hardwood stands, hemlock groves, and small ponds or streams. Most primitive campsites in this region experience temperature ranges from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer, with heaviest use occurring from late spring through early fall.
What to do
Hiking on the Finger Lakes Trail: Access primitive campsites along the trail sections through Bucks Brook State Forest, where "Bucks Brook carves a beautiful gorge through Bucks Brook State Forest before it cascades into the Otselic River." The trail follows the brook before climbing along steep cliffs above the Otselic River.
Kayaking and canoeing: Round Pond Pharsalia Woods Dispersed provides water access for small watercraft. A reviewer notes: "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."
Fishing opportunities: Several ponds in the area offer good fishing. At Long Pond Campground, campers report the lake "is very scenic and very productive for fisherman" featuring "trout, bass, and even tiger muskies." The newly built boat launch accommodates trailers and includes a handicapped accessible fishing pier.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Primitive sites in Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed offer solitude. As one camper explains, "you can backpack the various trails and camp at your own site if you leave no trace." The forest features a network of well-developed trails through beautiful woodlands.
Wildlife viewing: Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite offers excellent wildlife habitat. A camper describes: "The site is adjacent to a small parking area and fishing access on a really beautiful pond... I have been there in both summer, when the shoreline wildflowers are riotous, and in fall when the changing leaves are breathtaking."
Established sites with basic amenities: Some locations offer more developed sites. At Morgan Hill Forest, a reviewer mentions "two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits. These are very nice roomy wooded campsites."
What you should know
Winter access limitations: Many forest roads become impassable in winter. At Beals Pond State Forest, a camper noted: "This state forest is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon."
Cell service variation: Mobile coverage varies significantly across the region. T-Mobile seems to work well in some areas, with one Long Pond camper reporting "T-Mobile service has been exceptional as well."
Map resources: Forest road networks can be confusing. One Morgan Hill visitor advises: "Be sure to download a copy of the forest map with the trails network marked, as the various trails are blazed and have occasional signs, but they crisscross in a confusing network and you can get easily turned around without a map."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Select sites based on access needs. At Long Pond, a camper observed: "Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers" and "the trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Site selection for privacy: Choose locations away from main access points. At Long Pond Campground, a visitor noted that "the campsites are large and shaded and well spaced from each other and close to the pond."
Educational opportunities: Several areas feature unique ecosystems for nature learning. Round Pond provides "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."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most sites accommodate small vehicles only. A Long Pond camper noted: "Campground was easy to locate and the road was in good shape. Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer."
Self-sufficiency requirements: No hookups or services exist at these sites. One camper advises: "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal," while another adds camping here is "a 'leave no trace' situation which is fine considering the ample forest coverage."
Site selection for RVs: Only certain areas can accommodate small RVs. As one camper observed, parking areas at some trailheads like the Finger Lakes Trail off Grover Brown Road are "overgrown" and might not be "a great place to leave your car during a foray into the woods for dispersed camping."
