Tully, New York sits within the glacially-formed Finger Lakes region with elevations varying from 900 to 2,000 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates. State forests in the area feature both designated primitive camping areas and dispersed camping options where visitors can set up at least 150 feet from trails or water sources. Camping seasons typically run May through October, with some sites accessible year-round for winter recreation.
What to do
Hiking network access: At Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground, campers can directly access the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail. "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," notes one reviewer.
Lake swimming: Swimming areas at Green Lakes State Park Campground feature unique blue-green waters. "The lake is beautiful with green/blue hue in which the park gets its name. The beach can get busy during the summer however it is a great place to swim," shares a visitor who rated the experience 5 stars.
Fishing opportunities: Sites at smaller campgrounds often provide direct water access. At Spruce Pond Camping Area, "there are fire grills and nicely developed tent sites, one nestled in the woods and three with their own pond access, and one is actually handicapped accessible with its own accessible fishing landing."
What campers like
Private farm camping: Woonton Family Farms offers a different experience from standard campgrounds. "We had an excellent stay at the farm of the Woonton Family Farms with our RV, it was a cozy and beautiful campsite with personal attention of the owner. We had a great campfire, fresh blackberries and the option of canoeing," reports a Dutch family who visited.
Natural swimming areas: State parks feature swimming options beyond standard pools. At Fillmore Glen State Park Campground, "the winter the camp ground is open for hiking, x country skiing and smobiling. There is a cabin on site that is the replica of Millard Filmore's youth (13th President of the United States)," according to a reviewer who appreciated the history.
Trail connectivity: Dispersed camping options connect to extensive trail networks. One visitor to Morgan Hill State Forest notes, "Be sure to download a copy of the forest map with the trails network marked, as the various trails are blazed and have occasional signs, but they crisscross in a confusing network and you can get easily turned around without a map."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some campsite options near Tully require advance planning. At Spruce Pond Camping Area, "You may camp at this campground for free, but you do need a permit and should review the campground map to select your preferred site."
Noise considerations: Natural settings can bring unexpected sounds. One camper at Spruce Pond mentioned, "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night."
Facility variations: Bathroom facilities vary widely between campgrounds. A Green Lakes visitor noted, "As clean as the bathrooms are, the showers still suck. I'll never understand why parks use the misting shower heads. Maybe TMI, but sorry ladies, you'll never get the soap out of your bits."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds cater specifically to children. "Tons of activities for kids to do. I still remember from when I was little kid having a great time and still have gone again as an adult. Clean and fun activities to keep kids busy," shares a reviewer from Yellow Lantern Kampground.
Beach and play combinations: Look for campgrounds with combined recreation options. At Green Lakes, one visitor notes the "beach for swimming with concession stand with quite a full menu. Beach also has a great playground for kids that is perfect for play and swim."
Site selection for privacy: For family camping, consider site placement carefully. At Fillmore Glen, "Camp sites are a little close," according to one reviewer, while another mentioned, "we were the only tent campers around and the RV groups were loud late and early. We struggled to sleep because of the noise."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several state parks offer complete services. Green Lakes State Park "is one of the few that offer full hook ups. The bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground."
Off-season considerations: Campground features change seasonally. A Yellow Lantern Kampground visitor noted, "Me and my husband stayed here to visit a local friend and it wasn't bad it was very private and quiet. The property was well maintained and the owners were very friendly as well."
Water recreation access: River activities can be accessed directly from some campgrounds. At Lighthouse Landing Campground, one camper highlights the "tubing, kayaking and canoeing right on the river that leads to the campground."
