State forests surrounding Oriskany Falls, New York offer primitive camping opportunities ranging from established sites with basic amenities to completely undeveloped wilderness areas. Elevations in these forests typically range from 1,200 to 1,800 feet, creating cool summer nights even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Most dispersed camping areas in this region remain open year-round, though many forest access roads become impassable during winter months.
What to do
Fishing access points: Spruce Pond in Morgan Hill State Forest provides shoreline fishing opportunities with designated spots for anglers. As one visitor noted, "Lots of fisherman frequent the pond. Toilet isn't set up yet but will once the season opens" at Spruce Pond Camping Area.
Hiking trail connections: Access the Onondaga Trail branch of the North Country Scenic Trail directly from the trailhead at Morgan Hill. A reviewer described, "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!" at Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground.
Wildlife viewing: Spring and fall migrations bring diverse bird species through the area forests. Summer camping offers opportunities to hear frogs and other nocturnal wildlife, as one camper at Spruce Pond mentioned, "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night."
What campers like
Accessibility options: Some sites accommodate different mobility needs. At Morgan Hill, "there are 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, and the developed sites are supposedly ADA accessible."
Free camping opportunities: Charles E. Baker State Forest offers no-cost camping with some basic amenities. A visitor shared, "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 methods: Some sites can be reached by various means. Bear Wallow Pond offers flexibility as described by a camper: "This is a primitive undeveloped campsite, there is a clearing for tenting but no potable water or amenities of any kind. The site is adjacent to a small parking area and fishing access on a really beautiful pond" at Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites can be challenging. One camper at Pharsalia Woods State Forest noted, "The road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintanence road. But if you follow the road north to the end, you will come to a dead end and a parking circle."
Permit requirements: Some sites require advance permits. For Pharsalia Y Pond, a reviewer explained, "Camping in this DEC Wildlife Management Area campsite 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."
Limited amenities: Most sites lack running water or facilities. Come prepared with essentials for primitive camping. As one camper at Pharsalia Woods noted, "you DO need to come prepared to use the bushes by your campsite and leave no trace, plus bring your own water."
Tips for camping with families
Consider accessible sites: For families with diverse mobility needs, Spruce Pond offers more developed options. A reviewer noted, "There are fire grills and nicely developed tents sites, one nestled in the woods and three with their own pond access, and one is actually handicapped accessible with its own accessible fishing landing and an easy access to the parking lot."
Pack for temperature swings: Summer days can reach the 80s while nights often drop into the 50s, requiring both warm and cool weather clothing.
Try bike-friendly options: Some forest areas accommodate cycling families. At Nature Lover's Paradise, a reviewer highlighted that "The tent site and the 70 acres of hiking trails sound like the perfect getaway for anyone looking to reconnect with nature. I love the idea of having access to such a large network of trails."
Tips from RVers
Small rigs only: Most forest roads cannot accommodate larger RVs. Sites at Charles E. Baker State Forest are accessible "at the end of a long, but well maintained, dirt road" but are best for vans or truck campers.
Limited parking: Even at developed sites, parking can be restricted. At Morgan Hill, one visitor described, "There are several basic tent spots, which are just cleared grassy areas adjacent to the trailhead parking circle; BUT in addition, there are two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits."
Self-contained setups: With no hookups available, RVers need fully self-contained systems. Most sites lack potable water, dump stations, or electricity.
