Best Dispersed Camping near Palmyra, NY

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Palmyra. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Palmyra is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your New York camping adventure.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Palmyra, New York (7)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Palmyra, NY

5 Photos of 7 Palmyra Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Palmyra, NY

12 Reviews of 7 Palmyra Campgrounds


  • Jacob D.
    Sep. 13, 2024

    Foster Pond Camping Area

    Relaxed Free Dispersed Camping

    Right at the intersection of Potomac Road and Chicken Coop road in the Finger Lakes National Forest. If heading North on Potomac Road, turn left at the intersection and you’ll find a parking lot. Into the woods around the Lake you’ll find free dispersed camping.

    My mom and I stayed just in the parking lot and had no issues and weren’t bothered. NO AMENITIES

  • Lylah H.
    May. 17, 2024

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Great spot, follow the map around

    I believe it’s still off season so the spot with all the facilities wasn’t open. We used the map on the state forest website. But most spots have a privy/port o potty. We found the map on the website helpful because there are spots all over. Site 28 did have a sign about not awaking “butch and big daddy” as two young women we decided we didn’t want to stick around and meet them. There was a privy at 35 which was nice. The site by the pond was really cute with a privy but a walk in (believe it was 37)!

  • Brittany S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2022

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Great location

    We stayed here during an anniversary trip to the Finger Lakes. Easy proximity to Seneca Lake and Watkins Glen State Park. Nice wooded area kept us far enough away from other campers. Great location!

  • A
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Excellent Free Site

    No show but decent bathrooms. I spent a night at Watkins Glen the only advantage was the shower. But you can wash up well here. You can stay horses here, each site has a fire pit and it feels safe.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2023

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Well worth it

    I drove in from out of state and I absolutely adore this campground! Will be returning, I found a lovely spot tucked into a back corner and has the most relaxing weekend.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 23, 2024

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Amazing campsite!!

    Stopped in to "ride out a rain storm." After surviving the night, we discovered all the amenities. Free garbage service daily, Water faucets were placed all over the campground. There is a Forest Fire Lookout Tower next to the bathrooms.

    Camp sites are disbursed so you don't feel crowded or squeezed for space.

    Weekends are very busy but weekdays there were no more than 7 or 8 campsites occupied each night.

    The horse stalls were used regularly and seeing horses coming and going on trail rides is a daily occurrence.

  • Joel M.
    Jun. 26, 2025

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Free campround with Toiletts

    This campground is basically a big field surrounded by the forest. The sites are really nice, each one has a table with benches and a fire place. You can drive your car in here (gravel road). It has a toilet house.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2023

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Perfect Reprieve

    We pulled in just before dark to find 8 other campers already settled in. The sites were spacious. It was a cool and windy night, which made it perfect for sleeping. Highly recommend!

  • Cam F.
    Aug. 23, 2022

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Great quiet camping spot

    Lovely campground in a lush green clearing with plenty of bird life. Good facilities with flushing toilets and trash and recycling on site.

    The view from the tower is pretty nice too!


Guide to Palmyra

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Palmyra, New York, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the hustle and bustle. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, campers can enjoy the great outdoors while embracing the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Dispersed campers should check out Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

  • The Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite offers a peaceful environment with spacious sites, making it ideal for those seeking solitude in nature.
  • Campers can enjoy amenities like drinking water and picnic tables, along with the freedom to have fires, enhancing the overall camping experience.
  • This site is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Palmyra, New York

  • When visiting the Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping, be prepared for limited WiFi and phone service, which can be a great way to disconnect and enjoy nature.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, as some areas can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, while weekdays tend to be quieter.
  • Make sure to check for designated sites and follow local regulations, as this area is known for its well-maintained facilities and clean bathrooms.

Enjoy hiking and horseback riding while free camping near Palmyra

  • The Ossian State Forest on Scoville Road features trails that are perfect for hiking, though some areas may require attention due to overgrowth.
  • Horseback riding is a popular activity in the region, with sightings of riders frequently passing through, especially near the Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite.
  • For those looking for a more secluded experience, the Foster Pond Camping Area offers dispersed camping around a serene lake, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Palmyra, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Palmyra, NY is Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite with a 4.7-star rating from 11 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Palmyra, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Palmyra, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.