Tent camping in the Pulaski area ranges from rustic forest sites to water-adjacent campgrounds across Oswego County. The region sits at the western edge of the Tug Hill Plateau, receiving significant lake-effect precipitation throughout the year. Most forest camping areas remain open year-round but access becomes difficult during winter months when some roads are not maintained for vehicle traffic.
What to do
Winter recreation opportunities: Winona Forest CCC Camp serves as a hub for several snow sports trails. According to one visitor, "This is a hub for several snow mobile, cross country ski, and snow shoe trails. Several folks visited on Saturday and Sunday to enjoy the last bit of the snow."
Reservoir swimming: The Salmon River Reservoir provides swimming spots for campers seeking water activities. Primitive sites near water allow easy access for cooling off. As noted by a camper at Hall Island State Forest, "The draw for my friends and I at the time was a jump off the nearby Redfield bridge and swim in the Salmon River."
Water sports on Cross Lake: The flat waters of Cross Lake offer ideal conditions for paddlers. A visitor reports, "We kayaked in the lake it was a lot of fun." Cross Lake Park Campgrounds provide direct water access for boating activities.
What campers like
Convenient fishing access: Anglers appreciate streamside camping with immediate fishing opportunities. One visitor to Stoneys Pineville Campground shared, "Friendly hosts and great place on the river," while another noted, "We have been out three is consecutively for salmon fishing and I have had a great time."
Solitude and quiet: Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere at primitive sites. A camper at Winona State Forest reported, "Overall a good free quiet place to camp," and another stated, "The campsite was quiet and peaceful."
Water views: Tent sites with reservoir views rank highly with campers. As one visitor to Hall Island State Forest noted, "There were fire ring set up a view of the water and for enable body person just a short walk up the path."
What you should know
Site identification challenges: Forest camping locations can be difficult to locate. A Winona State Forest visitor mentioned, "The primitive campsite was a little difficult to find there's a tiny black and yellow placard that shows you where you can camp."
Limited facilities: Most primitive camping areas require self-sufficiency. A camper at Winona Forest CCC Camp explained, "If you camp here, you need to be self sufficient as there is no running water or electricity. There is a dollar general about 15 minutes away if you need some supplies."
Site proximity to roads: Some primitive sites are closer to vehicle traffic than expected. A visitor to Hall Island State Forest noted, "Where you drive in and park your car can also be used as a campsite but that's right off the road. Speaking of you can't hear the cars at night but you're not too far from the road maybe half a mile."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: When camping with children, sites with play areas provide added entertainment value. A visitor to Cross Lake Park Campgrounds mentioned, "Nice playgrounds" among the amenities.
Shower options: For longer stays with children, local facilities offer shower access. In towns near primitive camping areas, "the local convenience store, which 'conveniently' enough, offers shower facilities and bathrooms for a fee."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences rapid weather changes, especially in shoulder seasons. A camper observed, "It was cold snowing and raining. It didn't take away from the campsite at all though."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: RVers should note the scarcity of full-service sites. One visitor with a small RV to Winona Forest CCC Camp shared, "I took my small RV here on its maiden voyage. I found this spot on Google maps just pouring over imagery. I took off after work on Friday evening and pulled in after dark."
Rural electrical considerations: Many sites lack power hookups completely. For alternative power sources, Della Terra offers solar power options. According to one review, "This property is rural and beautiful. There is solar power to provide you with your electrical needs."
Alternative supplies: Campsites with limited facilities require additional planning. RVers report, "There is a dollar general about 15 minutes away if you need some supplies" from forest camping areas.
