Tent campsites near Trumansburg, New York are dispersed throughout nearby state forests and privately-owned properties, extending from the Finger Lakes to neighboring state forest lands. Camping options range from primitive sites with minimal facilities to more developed areas with basic amenities. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summer brings warm days suitable for water recreation at camping locations within 30-45 minutes of Trumansburg.
What to do
Fishing access points: Long Pond Campground features multiple fishing locations including "a regular boat launch with parking lot and dock, a carry-in kayak access near campsite 6, and a handicapped accessible fishing pier near campsite 1," with one camper noting the pond is "very scenic and very productive for fishermen."
Hiking trail connections: Camping at Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground provides direct access to the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail. One reviewer mentions "Hiking the trail west on a day trip will bring you to the beautiful Tinker Falls, which may not be flowing during dry seasons but is still a gorge worth exploring!"
Wildlife observation: Several camping areas around Trumansburg offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Spruce Pond, one camper mentioned "the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night," suggesting opportunities for frog and aquatic wildlife observation.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Spruce Pond Camping Area, campers appreciate the layout with "fire grills and nicely developed tent sites, one nestled in the woods and three with their own pond access." The sites are well-spaced, providing separation for a more private camping experience.
Free primitive camping: Many campers value the no-cost primitive camping available in state forests near Trumansburg. One reviewer noted that at Morgan Hill Forest campground 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 to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits."
Tree coverage for hammock camping: Nature Lover's Paradise offers tent camping with "70 acres of hiking trails" that create "the perfect getaway for anyone looking to reconnect with nature." At Spruce Pond, a camper specifically mentioned the area has "great trees for hammock camping."
What you should know
Varied toilet facilities: Bathroom options range widely across campsites. At Long Pond Campground, "There is a port-a-potty near the entrance but otherwise a 'leave no trace' situation," while Morgan Hill Forest campground has "NO toilet or outhouse right at the campground" requiring campers to "hike quite a long ways west on the Onondaga Trail to access a pit toilet."
Water supply considerations: Most primitive sites require bringing your own water. At Gardner Hill Campground, potable drinking water is available, making it a "folksy and nice" option with "no frills but very comfy and nice views."
Camping duration limits: State forest camping typically permits stays up to 14 days. One Long Pond camper mentioned "I am planning on staying here for a week or more and I see no reason to find another location as there is no fee or permit needed and you can stay up to 14 days I believe."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for tent size: When camping with family-sized tents, choose sites carefully. A Spruce Pond reviewer noted "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 here."
Noise considerations: Some camping areas around Trumansburg have active wildlife that might disturb light sleepers. A camper at Spruce Pond mentioned "the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night," which could be either a fun experience or a challenge for families with young children.
Road proximity safety: At Long Pond Campground, campsites are "strung out along the shoreline close to the highways, each with its own driveway right off the highway." This layout means less privacy and potential safety concerns for families with small children who might wander toward roads.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most primitive camping areas near Trumansburg accommodate only small RVs or trailers. At Long Pond Campground, "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Accessibility considerations: While some sites claim to be accessible, reality may differ. At Morgan Hill Forest, sites are "supposedly ADA accessible —but while I agree that the picnic tables and cement pad around the fireplace can certainly accommodate wheelchairs, and the tenting area is roomy, note that there are NO OTHER ADA amenities at these sites."
Self-sufficient camping: RV campers should plan to be fully self-contained. One Long Pond reviewer stated their site "has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal," highlighting the need to arrive prepared with all necessities.
