Campsites near Norwich, New York offer diverse accommodations from primitive tent camping to cabins with electric hookups. The region sits within the Chenango River Valley at elevations ranging from 1,000-1,800 feet, creating varied terrain for camping across multiple state forests. Winter camping options remain available at several locations when most developed facilities close, though temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Fishing at multiple ponds: Pharsalia Y Pond features a deep, clear pond stocked with brook trout perfect for anglers with canoes or kayaks. As one camper notes, "The pond is deep and clear and stocked with brook trout, and the campsite on the east side of the pond is in an idyllic setting with good camping, fishing (canoe or kayak only), and day hikes."
Winter activities: State forests remain open year-round with opportunities for cold-weather recreation. At Bowman Lake State Park Campground, campers report winter options. One reviewer mentioned they "camped in July, but were told that the park is opened for winter activities such as xcountry skiing and snow mobiling."
Explore hiking networks: Whaupaunaucau State Forest offers extensive trail systems beyond what most visitors expect. "This state forest has a network of miles of trails for both hiking and criss country skiing... 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."
Disc golf course access: Gilbert Lake State Park provides recreational options beyond water activities. A reviewer highlighted that "There's a disc golf course, many pavilions, a decent beach with concessions, a walking trail all the way are the lake and it's accessible from multiple points."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded camping experiences with natural buffers. At Bowman Lake State Park Campground, campers appreciate the layout: "Campground is a maze of campsites through densely wooded forests so it's pretty private and shady even though it's full no matter what season we visited."
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers can find no-cost sites throughout the region. At Hunts Pond State Forest, a reviewer noted, "These are free sites that you need to call to get a permit."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being rustic, many sites receive regular upkeep. A camper at Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite described it as a "Beautifully maintained primitive group campsite with large Adirondack style lean-to, several picnic tables and fire rings, and firewood provided."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The rural setting provides chances to observe local fauna. One camper at Gilbert Lake State Park mentioned their cabin experience included "Lots of wildlife, coyotes howling in the distance at night and plenty of deer."
What you should know
Permit requirements vary: Some sites require advance planning for permits. At Pharsalia Y Pond, "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... allow one week for permit to be processed."
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Prepare accordingly for basic accommodations. At Hunts Pond State Forest, a camper observed: "The campground was created several decades ago as part of Hunts Pond State Park. It has now been decommissioned as a state park and is a state forest recreation area instead... the former park buildings, restroom facilities and water taps have all been removed."
Variable maintenance conditions: State funding impacts upkeep at some locations. One camper at Bowman Lake reported in 2020: "New York State pretty much has abandoned this park. Trees fallen down across the sites. Might be ok for a tent but that's all."
Tick awareness: Increasing tick populations affect camping safety. At Whaupaunaucau State Forest, a reviewer warned: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Beach and swimming access: Gilbert Lake State Park Campground offers water recreation opportunities. A reviewer noted: "There is a big lake that is very built up for swimmers and has a playground, water sport rentals and more. There are also volleyball courts and horseshoes. Great place to bring the family!"
Cabin options for beginners: Families new to camping can ease into outdoor experiences. A Gilbert Lake visitor shared: "Spacious cabin was clean and comfortable. Two bedrooms, one with bunk beds and another with a full. There were dressers in each room. Also in the main room with a fireplace, futon, and table with benches."
Playground availability: Some parks offer dedicated play areas. At Bowman Lake State Park, one camper mentioned that while generally positive about their experience, "the kids were missing a playground."
Quiet enforcement: Family-friendly environments are maintained at certain parks. A Gilbert Lake visitor appreciated that it's a "Great place for the family as they can be a bit strict on unruly behavior."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Copes Corners Park offers varying levels of services. A camper noted: "Some sites are electric/water, and some are full service. Nice bathrooms and showers with ADA compliant bathrooms and showers on the one side of the park. Also, a dumping station and garbage dumpsters."
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some locations. At Bowman Lake, an RVer reported: "We had a back in site with a fire pit, picnic table, and no hook ups. It was gravel and not super level, but we made it work."
Expanding electrical service: Some parks are upgrading infrastructure. At Gilbert Lake, a camper observed: "They're finally adding a bunch of electric sites and have discontinued every other site in the deer run area. This makes the sites very large. There's 30 and 50 amp hookups."
Water fill locations: Know where to access water for RVs. A Gilbert Lake visitor advised: "You can fill your water tank at the dump station as there are no water hookups. There is plenty of places to get water to wash dishes or whatever you need."
