State forests surrounding Trout Creek, New York offer varied primitive camping experiences beyond designated campgrounds. The region sits within the foothills of the Catskill Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates for campers. Weather patterns change rapidly, with summer temperatures reaching the high 80s and winter lows frequently dropping below 20°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Round Pond in Pharsalia Woods features unique bog ecosystems that attract diverse wildlife. "There is a beautiful and accessible raised boardwalk to a unique overlook that has a beautiful vista over the bog and is an amazing place for birdwatching especially during spring migration," notes Janet R.
Wildlife observation: State forests provide excellent habitats for spotting native animals. The primitive sites in Whaupaunaucau State Forest are particularly notable for nature enthusiasts. According to Janet R., it's "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."
Watercraft exploration: Several ponds accommodate non-motorized boats. At Long Pond Campground, Katelyn H. reports, "I was able to score a spot right on the pond next to a dock. People have driven in to fish and kayak so I don't feel isolated and afraid, and I am just a few steps away from sitting on the dock and admiring the scenery."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: The remote nature of dispersed camping near Trout Creek provides peaceful experiences. At Betty Brook Camp, Robert B. shares, "Love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now. Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream."
Extended stays: The free camping options allow for longer visits. Katelyn H. appreciates Long Pond Campground because "there is no fee or permit needed and you can stay up to 14 days I believe."
Seasonal variety: The region offers year-round camping opportunities. At Burnt Rossman State Forest, Felix R. found that it "was a great location for winter camping. Site easily accessible from road. Beautiful, peaceful, great time!"
What you should know
Varied site conditions: Campsite quality differs significantly across locations. At Balsam Swamp State Forest, Janet R. observed, "Some of the sites have new picnic tables, some have old tables that are falling apart, and some have none at all. Some have official steel fire rings, some have stone fire rings that are crumbling."
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive sites vary widely in quality. Kevin C. notes about Long Pond Campground, "Campground was easy to locate and the road was in good shape."
Restroom facilities: Most locations have minimal facilities, if any. Kevin C. reports that at Long Pond, "We stayed in the space across from the port-a-pottie. The other camping spaces we close enough to see their campfire at night but far enough away that it's still quiet."
Connectivity issues: Prepare for limited communications. Kevin C. mentioned that Long Pond has "no phone signal," while Katelyn H. reported, "T-Mobile service has been exceptional" at the same location, indicating carrier differences.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection considerations: Choose locations with adequate facilities for children. Peter recommends Betty Brook Camp noting, "There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away. It's a small town, with just a gas station store."
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of natural features for learning. The Round Pond area includes informational resources, as Janet R. notes: "The parking lot has an info kiosk with a map of the trail network and info about the unique bog ecosystem."
Security awareness: Some areas have experienced misuse. At Long Pond, Janet R. observed that "Campsite 1 is adjacent to the handicapped fishing pier... the parking area at this campsite seems to be a major party spot as beer cans were thrown all over and even in the water."
Weather preparedness: Conditions can change quickly. Temperature variations between day and night can exceed 30 degrees in spring and fall, requiring appropriate clothing and gear.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive sites accommodate only smaller rigs. Kevin C. advises about Long Pond, "Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers," adding that "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer."
Resource management: No hookups means planning for self-sufficiency. "The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel," notes Kevin C. about Long Pond. "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal."
Seasonal access: Winter conditions restrict RV access to many sites. For Beals Pond State Forest, Joshua M. cautions, "This state forest is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon."
