Best Dispersed Camping near Pine Hill, NY

Searching for a dispersed campsite near Pine Hill? The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Pine Hill's most popular destinations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Pine Hill, New York (13)

    Camper-submitted photo at Towsley Road Dispersed Camping near Richland, NY

    1. Towsley Road Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    14 Saves
    Richland, New York

    Primitive camping is allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger.

    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Kevin C.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Winona State Forest near Lorraine, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Winona State Forest near Lorraine, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Winona State Forest near Lorraine, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Winona State Forest near Lorraine, NY

    2. Winona State Forest

    1 Review
    4 Photos
    7 Saves
    Lorraine, New York
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Ashlee C.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at North Lake Reservoir Campground near Otter Lake, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at North Lake Reservoir Campground near Otter Lake, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at North Lake Reservoir Campground near Otter Lake, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at North Lake Reservoir Campground near Otter Lake, NY

    3. North Lake Reservoir Campground

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    10 Saves
    Otter Lake, New York
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    Janet R.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed near Apulia Station, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed near Apulia Station, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed near Apulia Station, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed near Apulia Station, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed near Apulia Station, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed near Apulia Station, NY

    4. Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed

    1 Review
    39 Photos
    20 Saves
    Apulia Station, New York

    This location is the parking area for the dispersed hike-in and backpacking camping; the established primitive campgrounds are elsewhere in the forest, at Spruce Pond and adjacent to the North Country Scenic Trail access for the trail to Tinkers Falls.

    Two additional drive-up, accessible camping sites are available on a first come, first served basis. The sites are located off of Morgan Hill Road, in close proximity to the forest's accessible trail. See map above and directions below.

    The Spruce Pond camping area and the two drive-up accessible camping sites are located on seasonal roads with no winter maintenance or available parking nearby. Accessing these sites from November through March is not recommended.

    Primitive camping is welcomed year-round throughout the forest, where safe and authorized access and parking allows. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    Janet R.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground near Truxton, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground near Truxton, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground near Truxton, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground near Truxton, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground near Truxton, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground near Truxton, NY

    5. Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground

    1 Review
    37 Photos
    10 Saves
    Truxton, New York
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo at Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site near DeRuyter, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site near DeRuyter, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site near DeRuyter, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site near DeRuyter, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site near DeRuyter, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site near DeRuyter, NY

    6. Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site

    1 Review
    10 Photos
    33 Saves
    DeRuyter, New York

    Bucks Brook State Forest consists of 2,178 acres located between State highway 26 and County Highway 13 in the northwest corner of Chenango County. Popular recreational uses of this forest are hiking, nature observation and hunting.

    Camping At-large primitive camping is allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger.

    Hiking General information on hiking includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules & regulations.

    A portion of the Finger Lakes Trail (leaves DEC website) traverses the forest. The trail enters the forest on the northwest side along Ratville Road and traverses east and then south to where it exits the forest on Bucks Brook Road near its junction with Rt. 26

    Fishing General information on fishing includes how-to and safety tips and links to seasons, rules & regulations.

    The Otselic River, which runs along Rt. 26, offers nearby trout fishing opportunities and is easily accessible due to the numerous DEC parking areas.

    Fishing Access information is available. Fishing Easement information is available.

    Hunting & Trapping General Information on hunting and general information on trapping includes how-to and safety tips with links to seasons, rules & regulations.

    Cross-country Skiing & Snowshoeing General information on cross-country skiing and snowshoeing includes how-to and safety tips and links to rules & regulations.

    Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are permitted on all hiking trails.

    Wildlife General information on animals includes links to information about birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians and insects that inhabit or migrate through the state.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo at Salmon River in Altmar State Forest near Richland, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Roadside Parking on Route 20 near Bouckville, NY
    Janet R.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods near South Plymouth, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods near South Plymouth, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods near South Plymouth, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods near South Plymouth, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods near South Plymouth, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods near South Plymouth, NY

    9. Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods

    1 Review
    25 Photos
    8 Saves
    South Plymouth, New York

    Primitive camping is allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger. More details here: https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/41282.html

    Primitive camping is allowed on many DEC lands, including Forest Preserve lands in the Catskills and Adirondacks, as well as on State Forest lands outside the Preserve. Primitive camping is prohibited on Unique Areas, Wildlife Management Areas, and a few other categories of state land.

    Where to Set Up Camp The best place to camp is at designated primitive tent sites. These sites are typically flatter than other areas and have deeper, harder soils more resistant to heavy use and erosion, minimizing the impacts of camping. Many sites have nearby pit privies and rock fire rings.

    Yellow and black camp here marker attached to a tree "Camp Here" marker Campers are encouraged to use designated tent sites. They are often close to trails and provide views of ponds, lakes, streams or rivers. These can be a source of water when properly treated.

    All designated primitive tent sites have yellow and black "Camp Here" markers. Many sites on lakes and ponds are identified by a yellow number against a dark brown wooden plaque typically attached to a tree near the water's edge.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Elizabeth B.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping near Thendara, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping near Thendara, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping near Thendara, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping near Thendara, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping near Thendara, NY
    Camper-submitted photo at Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping near Thendara, NY

    10. Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    5 Photos
    41 Saves
    Thendara, New York
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
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Showing results 1-10 of 13 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews near Pine Hill, New York

10 Reviews of 13 Pine Hill Campgrounds


  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Winona State Forest
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Winona State Forest

    Small but quiet campsite

    Pulled in on a Thursday afternoon and found a single camp site. While there I talked to a state forest maintenance guy. He said there were currently two camping sites and that more might be added.

    The campsite was just feet off of Bargy Road. The only amenity was a fire ring made of rocks. The campsite appears to be the trailhead for a man-made trail.

    It rained while we were here but overall the campsite was quiet and peaceful.

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed

    Finger Lakes Trailhead off Grover Brown Rd

    The coordinates lead you to a small parking area at the end of Grover Brown Rd, which is accessed by going north from Rt 23. 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 that gives you the option of hiking north past a gate into the state forest on a hunting trail, or west onto the Finger Lakes Trail where dispersed camping is allowed within the state forest. However, 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. The parking area is overgrown, the neighbors aling the road en route seem frustrated with hikers coming into the forest via this route, and the Trailhead here for the Finger Lakes Trail is blocked by downed trees that seem to have been there for a while. While you might try to hike the trail for day use, I wonder if this may not be a great place to leave your car during a foray into the woods for dispersed camping. Although the Pharsalia Forest is beautiful throughout, and dispersed camping is allowed throughout, there are better places to access it. There are also designated primitive campsites in several locations in other areas of this state forest which are worthy of your camping adventures! You

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground

    Morgan Hill OT/NCST trailhead campground

    This is a small state forest campground in the Morgan Hill forest from which you can directly access the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail. Although the campsites here are primitive and free, they are official developed campsites and not really “dispersed” campsites. 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. These are very nice roomy wooded campsites, and the  developed sites are supposedly ADA accessible —but while I agree that the picnic tables and cement pad around the fireplace can certainly accomodate wheelchairs, and the tenting area is roomy, note that there are NO OTHER ADA amenities at these sites, eg no water source and NO toilet or outhouse right at the campground. While you can drive right up to your campsite location, which is accessible, you would actually have to hike quite a long ways west on the OnondagaTrail to access a pit toilet, or to have stream access for obtaining water to boil, so you DO need to come prepared to use the bushes by your campsite and leave no trace, plus bring your own water. (See attached map where I circled the campground area in orange) That being said, 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. 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! You can best access this campground from the south side of the forest; the entrance is from state route 13 on Morgan Hill Rd south,  adjacent to a very nice farm stand that is a good stop  for supplies, and there is a DEC forest sign to mark the turn off from Rt 13.  After that, you are on your own and should bring a map to navigate as the hiking trails are marked with signs where they cross the roads, but the road to turn off from Morgan Hill Rd to the campground is not marked. You can set your driving directions on Google Maps beforehad, to this endpoint: https://www.google.com/maps/dir//42.767846,-75.997552/@42.7799792,-76.08097,12z?entry=ttu

    You might also want to download the free Avenza map of the forest which will allow you to navigate real time even if you don't have cell service, that link is here: https://store.avenza.com/products/morgan-hill-state-forest-nysdec-map?queryID=eb824498ff4125babc1c06655b111da4&objectID=42626406056092

     general info for this state forest is here: 

    https://dec.ny.gov/places/morgan-hill-state-forest

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed

    Primitive Dispersed camping at Morgan Hill

    This location has a set of 2 large trailhead parking lots for hikers and backpackers accessing the vast trail network of the Morgan Hill State Forest. (See area circled in image on map) You do not camp here at these parking lots, but from here can backpack in to the woods on the Onondaga Trail or connecting trails, and from there you can do LNT dispersed camping as long as you follow the state forest camping rules(see this link for more details: https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/camping/state-land-rules) such as not setting up camp within 150 of a stream or other body or water, and not near an official campground (There are 2 official drive-in primitive camp grounds in the vicinty, for which you need permits from the local ranger; otherwise, elsewhere in the forest you can backpack the various trails and camp at your own site if you leave no trace). You need to bring your own water, there is none provided here, and be prepared to pack out your own garbage. 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. The woods are beautiful and the trails are well developed, but also be prepared for ticks and the need for repellent as they are thick in spring and early summer. Note: the trails going west from here enter the Labrador Hollow Unique area, which is part of the state forest but is a special preserve where camping is NOT allowed, so be aware of your lication

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods

    Bear Wallow Pond

    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, which is unnamed on the map but is an impoundment of Bear Wallow Creek so it can be considered Bear Wallow Pond. I have been there in both summer, when the shoreline wildflowers are riotous, and in fall when the changing leaves are breathtaking. If you camp here, 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 (see website for this listing for map of the refuge and more info at https://cnyhiking.com/FLT-PharsaliaWMA.htm)

    You can get to the site from state highway 23 via the Benedict Hill Rd, or from the hamlet of Beaver Meadow going south and west of Cole Hill via Mud Lane. A peaceful pretty wooded spot not far from either Norwich or South Otselic for an easy overnight or weekend. I give it 4 stars not for amenities but for being an idyllic example of a dispersed primitive site

  • Noah D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Towsley Road Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 24, 2023

    Towsley Road Dispersed Camping

    great little spot

    nice place to sleep. good for someone who doesn’t want something too off the road. when you get to the destination you have to go a little more up the road until you see a sign and a sand patch on the side of the road.

  • Elizabeth B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Lagoon Primitive Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 1, 2020

    Blue Lagoon Primitive Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed camping on stillwater reservoir

    Primitive site on the beautiful south eastern end of Stillwater. A short hike in to a great beach for swimming or paddling.

    We’ve stayed here many times in tents and hammock tents. The swimming is fantastic- water is clean and clear.

    Because you can’t make a reservation here sometimes there’s competition for a spot. There is a good fire circle with space all around. The trail down to the beach is only about a hundred feet, but it is downhill.

    This site is close to the trailhead for the Stillwater firetower, an original Adirondack firetower.

  • Elizabeth B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 1, 2020

    Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping

    Primitive dispersed camping. 1/4 mile walk in, lovely quiet lake

    This is a small primitive site. No services, but a very beautiful spot. There’s a small fire ring, and access to the lake for swimming or fishing. 

    Sunday lake has always been lovely and quiet and a great place to take youth campers. 

    Take Stillwater rd. to McCarty road, the trail is 0.3 miles To Sunday lake. Space to park two cars or a small RV off the road.

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Whaupaunaucau State Forest
    Oct. 28, 2019

    Whaupaunaucau State Forest

    Hidden gem in Chenango County

    You have to work a bit to find info on the Whaupaunaucau state forest as a camping destination, but for primitive campers that is part of the appeal! This is a relatively unknown oasis outside of the county, but this state forest has a network of miles of trails for both hiking and criss country skiing. There is an offifical lean-to shelter and developed campsite on trail 20 (see map) but there are several primitive sites with tent site and stine fireplace, plus dispersed leave-no-trace camping is allowed anywhere in the state forest, and the possibilities are endless. Lovely hilly vistas, pondside glens, and lots of clearings near clear streams deep in this old stately forest. A great place to get away from it all for hiking and camping but it is also 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

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site
    Dec. 1, 2017

    Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site

    Bucks Brook primitive camping

    Bucks Brook carves a beautiful gorge through Bucks Brook State Forest before it cascades into the Otselic River. There are both state forest roads and off road trails to hike on in the area; the Bucks Brook Forest Road follows a series of small waterfalls at the bottom of the gorge to the source of the creek near the top of the ridge above it, while the Finger Lakes trail follows the brook for a short while near its mouth before climbing offroad through the ridge high above the gorge, along steep cliffs above the Otselic and west along the crest of Bucks Brook Hill. There are several very primitive tent sites along the FTL, but dispersed camping is also allowed. Two sites on the ridge near the source of the Brook are accessible by the Finger Lakes trail either from Bucks Brook Rd or Ridge Rd.

    The setting is scenic and picturesque, and the winding trail can be quite a challenge if hiking the long way uphill on the FTL. An easier hike-in access is at Ridge Rd, about a 1/4 hike to the brook where there are several nice flat tent sites. The brook is beautiful and unspoiled, but this truly is primitive camping, no picnic tables, no lean-to shelter like at somecother area FTL campsites, no water source other than the brook (you should filter it even though the source is a spring near by), no latrines, no fire grates though there is a stone fire ring and you could easily build a new one of your own with stones from the brook.

    Although this is an idyllic and secluded spot for primitive camping, and the hike in (either via the long or short way) is well marked and enjoyable, the campsites are really nothing more than flat ground for basic tent-sites; this location could be improved with at least a fire grate, and preferably a lean-to. Also, the parking spot for access to the trail and tentsites really needs to be upgraded; it is just a muddy turnout off the forest road. Hence the four star rating d spite the five star brook and forest! However, it should be mentioned that the amenities at campsites along other segments if the FLT have been developed and maintained not by the DEC but by different volunteer chapters of the trail organization who have adopted certain local segments; this Bucks Brook section just hasnt been adopted yet! It has the potential for being a 5-star primitive camping experience if upgraded a bit; volunteers should feel free to step forth!

    For more on the Bucks Brook section if the Finger Lakes Trail, go to this link: http://www.cnyhiking.com/FLT-BucksBrookSF.htm


Guide to Pine Hill

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pine Hill, New York, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Here are some top spots to consider for your next outdoor getaway.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Pine Hill, New York

  • Towsley Road Dispersed Camping offers a convenient location for those who prefer a spot that’s not too far off the beaten path, making it easy to access while still enjoying the tranquility of nature. Towsley Road Dispersed Camping is a great choice for a peaceful night under the stars.
  • For a truly remote experience, check out North Lake Reservoir Campground, where you can wake up to stunning views of the lake and enjoy a quiet atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
  • If you’re looking for a primitive camping experience, Bucks Brook State Forest Primitive Tent Site provides a scenic gorge and hiking trails, ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in nature.

Top activities while free camping near Pine Hill

  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the access to Bear Wallow Pond, where you can cast a line and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. This site is perfect for those who want to combine camping with fishing adventures. Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods is a great spot for this.
  • Hiking is a must in the area, especially along the trails accessible from Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed, where you can explore the vast network of paths while enjoying the natural beauty of the forest.
  • For those who enjoy swimming, Sunday Lake Dispersed Camping offers a lovely lake for a refreshing dip after a day of hiking or exploring.

Scenic attractions for dispersed campers

  • The picturesque views at Winona State Forest make it a fantastic destination for photography and nature walks, providing a peaceful backdrop for your camping experience.
  • If you’re interested in birdwatching or botanizing, Whaupaunaucau State Forest is known for its diverse wildlife and plant species, making it a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts.
  • The tranquil environment at Blue Lagoon Primitive Dispersed Camping allows for a relaxing getaway, with opportunities for swimming and paddling in the clear waters nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Pine Hill, NY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pine Hill, NY is Towsley Road Dispersed Camping with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Pine Hill, NY?

    TheDyrt.com has all 13 dispersed camping locations near Pine Hill, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.