Best Tent Camping near Rome, NY

State forests surrounding Rome, New York offer numerous primitive tent camping opportunities within a short drive. Hall Island State Forest, located north of Rome, provides walk-in tent sites with water views along the Salmon River Reservoir. Winona State Forest, approximately 25 miles northwest of Rome, features tent-only camping with basic fire rings in a secluded forest setting. These public lands provide backcountry tent camping experiences without the crowds of more developed campgrounds.

Most tent campsites in the region require self-sufficiency and preparation. Fire rings are common at designated sites, but potable water is rarely available. Campers should bring all necessary supplies, including water and waste disposal bags. Tent pads vary from cleared forest floor to grassy areas with minimal grading. Several locations, including North Lake Reservoir Campground, feature walk-in tent sites directly adjacent to water bodies. Permits may be required for camping in some state forests, particularly in Wildlife Management Areas, with applications processed through regional DEC offices.

In early fall, tent campers find fewer crowds and cooler temperatures at most primitive sites. According to reviews, North Lake Reservoir offers "32 sites all around the lake" with some walk-in spots directly on the water. A visitor to Hall Island State Forest noted there was "enough space to set up a few tents" with fire rings already established. Spruce Pond in Morgan Hill State Forest provides well-maintained primitive tent camping with some sites featuring pond access. Campers frequently use these locations as bases for fishing, hiking, and paddling, with the Finger Lakes Trail accessible from several tent campgrounds. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, though one camper mentioned that frogs at pond-side sites can be quite vocal at night.

Best Tent Sites Near Rome, New York (25)

    1. Hall Island State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Altmar, NY
    26 miles
    Website

    "I checked out primitive site on my own early in April it was cold snowing and raining. It didn’t take away from the campsite at all though."

    3. Charles E. Baker State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Hubbardsville, NY
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 674-4017

    "Only found one designated campsite, which was available, but there’s a lot of good space for dispersed camping right nearby. Access at the end of a long, but well maintained, dirt road."

    "Beautiful forest with miles of trails. I found this spot passing through on my bike and had no problem pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the woods."

    4. Stoneys Pineville Campground

    2 Reviews
    Altmar, NY
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (315) 298-2325

    5. Nature Lover's Paradise

    3 Reviews
    Fabius, NY
    36 miles
    +1 (561) 503-9444

    $79 - $149 / night

    "Nature Lover's Paradise is new to the Dyrt and they have an awesome spot to share with access to a vast network of trails in upstate New York. "

    "The tent site and the 70 acres of hiking trails sound like the perfect getaway for anyone looking to reconnect with nature."

    6. North Lake Reservoir Campground

    2 Reviews
    Otter Lake, NY
    35 miles

    "32 sites all around the lake. Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean."

    "We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake. Car camped, but there was enough room for a tent."

    7. Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest

    3 Reviews
    Apulia Station, NY
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 753-3095

    "Toilet isn’t set up yet but will once the season opens.

    The first few campsites are the best the further down you go the worse the sites get for tent set up. Smaller tents would be best do here."

    "Although dispersed primitive camping is allowed elsewhere throughout the state forest, this is a group of ten established and well maintained primitive campsites right on Spruce Pond with fishing available"

    8. Winona State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Lorraine, NY
    41 miles

    "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."

    "The primitive campsite was a little difficult to find there’s a tiny black and yellow placard that shows you where you can camp. There were some firewood set out except it was wet."

    9. Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground

    1 Review
    Truxton, NY
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 753-3095

    "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 **"

    10. Pharsalia Y Pond

    1 Review
    South Plymouth, NY
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 753-3095

    "This campsite is a hike in stop on the Finger Lakes Trail, but can also be accessed by a short walk-in from Elmer Jackson Rd, or by paddling in from the parking area in the west side of the pond."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 25 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Rome, NY

330 Reviews of 25 Rome Campgrounds



Guide to Rome

Tent camping near Rome, New York offers a variety of scenic spots where nature lovers can unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from well-equipped campgrounds to more primitive sites, there's something for every type of camper.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • Styshs Brown Barn Campgrounds provides essential amenities like drinking water, electric hookups, and pet-friendly policies, making it a convenient choice for families.
  • Stoneys Pineville Campground features a market and sanitary dump, along with showers and toilets, ensuring a comfortable stay for tent campers.
  • Nature Lover's Paradise offers a reservable tent site with access to drinking water and showers, perfect for those looking to enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort.

Local activities for outdoor enthusiasts

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $30

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Rome, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Rome, NY is Hall Island State Forest with a 3.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Rome, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 25 tent camping locations near Rome, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.