Campgrounds near Truxton, New York range from basic dispersed sites to facilities with electrical hookups and cabin rentals. Located in central New York at approximately 1,200 feet elevation, Truxton experiences humid summer camping conditions with daytime temperatures typically between 75-85°F from June through August. Winter camping options are limited due to significant snowfall averaging over 100 inches annually, with most primitive sites requiring high-clearance vehicles during wet conditions.
What to do
Fishing at multiple ponds: The Spruce Pond Camping Area offers accessible fishing opportunities on a peaceful pond. "This is a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night," notes one visitor, adding unexpected wildlife encounters to the fishing experience.
Hiking trail networks: State forests surrounding campsites near Truxton, New York connect to extensive trail systems. At Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground, visitors can "directly access the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail." One camper recommends: "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!"
Water recreation: Lakes within 20-30 minutes of Truxton provide swimming and boating. "The swimming area is wide and shallow in most areas," says a camper about Green Lakes. For river activities, "Tubing, kayaking and canoeing right on the river that leads to the campground" are highlights at Lighthouse Landing according to visitors.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Some campsites offer more privacy than others. At Nature Lover's Paradise, campers appreciate "access to a vast network of trails in upstate New York" and the "70 acres of hiking trails" that create a more isolated camping experience.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds with maintained amenities receive consistent positive feedback. "Bathrooms are very clean and close to all campsites," reports one family about Fillmore Glen State Park Campground. Another visitor adds: "Camp facilities were clean and well maintained."
Unique water features: The distinctive color of Green Lakes stands out to visitors. One camper described it as "Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands," making it a surprising feature in central New York.
Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds catering to families offer additional recreation options. "Tons of activities for kids to do," notes a visitor about Yellow Lantern Kampground, adding "Clean and fun activities to keep kids busy."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some primitive sites require permits despite being free. For Morgan Hill dispersed camping, "you do need a permit and should review the campground map to select your preferred site." Check with the DEC office before setting up at primitive sites.
Road conditions: Access to remote camping areas can be challenging. Forest roads leading to trailheads are often unmarked. One visitor to Morgan Hill advised: "The road to turn off from Morgan Hill Rd to the campground is not marked. You can set your driving directions on Google Maps beforehand."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate between May and October. At Green Lakes State Park Campground, the season runs "May 13 to October 9." Winter access is severely limited, though some areas permit winter activities like cross-country skiing.
Facility variations: Amenities differ significantly between established and dispersed sites. "You need to bring your own water, there is none provided here, and be prepared to pack out your own garbage," explains a Morgan Hill State Forest visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "Kids loved the park and swimming in the waterfall beach," says a visitor to Fillmore Glen. Another notes: "The beach also has a great playground for kids that is perfect for play and swim."
Swimming options: Lighthouse Landing Campground offers river recreation that appeals to families. "Highlight is the tubing, kayaking and canoeing right on the river that leads to the campground," making it convenient for families with children who enjoy water activities.
Wildlife education: Ponds and forests provide natural learning opportunities. At Spruce Pond, "the animals at the pond are very active," creating chances for wildlife observation. Parents should note that ticks are prevalent in spring and early summer, requiring appropriate protection.
Accessibility considerations: Some sites accommodate mobility needs. Morgan Hill features "two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits" that are "supposedly ADA accessible," though visitors note limited additional accessible amenities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Cortlands Country Music Park and Campground provides "Electric and water at site" according to reviews, though it's described as a "Small campground near NY finger lakes."
Shower facilities: RVers report varying shower quality. At Green Lakes, some visitors note, "as clean as the bathrooms are, the showers still suck. I'll never understand why parks use the misting shower heads." Many recommend using "the ADA bathrooms because those shower heads are normal and have wands."
Site spacing: Several campgrounds feature open layouts without much separation. As one Fillmore Glen visitor reports, "We were the only tent campers around and the RV groups were loud late and early." RVers seeking more privacy should consider less developed options.
Seasonal maintenance issues: During peak season, some campgrounds perform extensive maintenance. One RVer reported landscaping crews "spent at least 5-6 hours the Monday we were here mowing around our campsite, coming within inches of our power cords."
