Dispersed camping areas near Savannah, New York offer several free opportunities for primitive overnight stays in the Finger Lakes region. Most sites lie within state forests at elevations between 800-1,500 feet, with mixed hardwood forests providing seasonal shade. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F during day and 50-65°F at night, with higher humidity during July and August.
What to do
Hiking access: Finger Lakes National Forest provides multiple trail access points for overnight backpackers. According to one visitor, "The road in (a loop) is steep on both sides (a truck or vehicle with clearance would be helpful but you could also park at the bottom if you needed to)."
Horseback riding trails: Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping offers horse-friendly camping with dedicated trails. A camper noted, "Our area was slightly isolated but a trail was next to it so horseback riders just appear occasionally to bright your day."
Stargazing opportunities: The lack of light pollution at most dispersed sites creates excellent nighttime viewing conditions. At Towsley Road Dispersed Camping, one camper shared it's "nice place to sleep, good for someone who doesn't want something too off the road."
Bird watching: The varied forest environments support diverse bird species, particularly during spring and fall migrations. Early mornings offer the best viewing opportunities before daytime temperatures rise.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the ample space between sites. At Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping, one reviewer mentioned, "The campground offers a variety of great options for various rig sizes, accommodating different needs comfortably."
Proximity to attractions: South Slope Trail Head Dispersed Camp provides convenient access to local trails. "There is one campsite near trail. There was more traffic than I expected. Also there is no cell service," notes one visitor.
Seasonal flexibility: Most dispersed camping areas remain accessible year-round, though early spring often means muddy conditions while fall offers cooler temperatures and colorful foliage.
Budget-friendly overnight stays: Free camping near Savannah creates affordable multi-day exploration opportunities. One camper at Foster Pond Camping Area stated directly, "My mom and I stayed just in the parking lot and had no issues and weren't bothered. NO AMENITIES."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access roads to many sites deteriorate after rain. Four-wheel drive vehicles provide the most reliable transportation during wet seasons.
Limited cell service: Connectivity remains unreliable throughout the region. According to a Sugar Hill Recreation Area camper, "WiFi and phone service are pretty limited, typically ranging between 1-2 bars."
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Foster Pond Camping Area has "NO AMENITIES" while other locations offer basic facilities. At Sugar Hill Recreation Area, visitors report "Clean bathrooms with flush toilets."
Water availability: Most dispersed camping sites require bringing all drinking water. During summer months, 1-2 gallons per person per day is recommended based on temperatures and planned activities.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection timing: Arrive mid-week for better site selection. A Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite visitor observed, "Weekdays there were no more than 7 or 8 campsites occupied each night."
Tick prevention: The region experiences heavy tick activity, particularly April through July. Long pants, closed shoes, and regular tick checks help prevent issues.
Fire safety: Bring a portable fire pit if staying at locations without established rings. Not all dispersed areas permit ground fires, particularly during dry periods.
Kid-friendly locations: Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground offers developed sites with amenities suitable for younger campers. One visitor described, "There are two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs under 25 feet due to narrow access roads and limited turn-around space.
Leveling challenges: Bring extra leveling blocks as many sites feature uneven terrain. Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite has some flatter options where "The sites were spacious."
Generator policies: Most dispersed camping areas near Savannah prohibit generators or restrict operating hours. Plan accordingly with solar or battery power solutions.
Seasonal access: Spring thaws often create soft ground conditions at many sites, making them temporarily unsuitable for heavier RVs until completely dry.
