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Best Tent Camping near Tully, NY

505 Reviews

State forests surrounding Tully, New York offer numerous primitive tent camping opportunities within a short drive. Morgan Hill State Forest features the Spruce Pond Camping Area with ten established tent sites situated along the water, making it popular with fishermen and paddlers. The Onondaga Trailhead campground in the same forest provides both basic tent spots and two developed campsites with cement pads and picnic tables. For backcountry tent camping experiences, Pharsalia Woods State Forest, located southwest of Tully, contains several primitive tent sites including Bear Wallow Pond and Jackson Pond, which are accessible via the Finger Lakes Trail network.

Most tent campsites in the region require campers to bring their own water and supplies. The Spruce Pond area has a seasonal port-a-potty but no drinking water facilities. Sites typically feature fire rings or grills, with some offering picnic tables. Tent pads are generally level but unimproved, set on natural forest surfaces. According to a recent visitor at Morgan Hill's Onondaga Trailhead, "You need to come prepared to use the bushes by your campsite and leave no trace, plus bring your own water." Many sites require permits from the DEC office in Cortland, with applications processed within one week. A 14-day stay limit applies at most locations.

The tent-only experience in these forests provides excellent access to trail networks and water features. At Spruce Pond, one camper noted that "the first few campsites are the best for tent setup, with smaller tents working better in some locations." The sites offer good hammock camping opportunities with mature trees providing ample shade. Fall visitors experience vibrant foliage, particularly at Bear Wallow Pond where "the changing leaves are breathtaking." Most primitive tent sites remain peaceful even on weekends, with campsites spaced far enough apart to maintain privacy while still being within sight of neighboring campfires. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with active pond life including vocal frogs that some campers report can be quite noisy at night.

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Best Tent Sites Near Tully, New York (19)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Tully, NY

24 Photos of 19 Tully Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Tully, NY

505 Reviews of 19 Tully Campgrounds

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground

    Morgan Hill OT/NCST trailhead campground

    This is a small state forest campground in the Morgan Hill forest from which you can directly access the Onondaga Trail branch of the National North Country scenic trail. Although the campsites here are primitive and free, they are official developed campsites and not really “dispersed” campsites. 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. These are very nice roomy wooded campsites, and the  developed sites are supposedly ADA accessible —but while I agree that the picnic tables and cement pad around the fireplace can certainly accomodate wheelchairs, and the tenting area is roomy, note that there are NO OTHER ADA amenities at these sites, eg no water source and NO toilet or outhouse right at the campground. While you can drive right up to your campsite location, which is accessible, you would actually have to hike quite a long ways west on the OnondagaTrail to access a pit toilet, or to have stream access for obtaining water to boil, so you DO need to come prepared to use the bushes by your campsite and leave no trace, plus bring your own water. (See attached map where I circled the campground area in orange) That being said, this location is peaceful and quiet with mature trees and plenty of distance between neighboring campers, and would be an ideal setting for a group campout. 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! You can best access this campground from the south side of the forest; the entrance is from state route 13 on Morgan Hill Rd south,  adjacent to a very nice farm stand that is a good stop  for supplies, and there is a DEC forest sign to mark the turn off from Rt 13.  After that, you are on your own and should bring a map to navigate as the hiking trails are marked with signs where they cross the roads, but the road to turn off from Morgan Hill Rd to the campground is not marked. You can set your driving directions on Google Maps beforehad, to this endpoint: https://www.google.com/maps/dir//42.767846,-75.997552/@42.7799792,-76.08097,12z?entry=ttu

    You might also want to download the free Avenza map of the forest which will allow you to navigate real time even if you don't have cell service, that link is here: https://store.avenza.com/products/morgan-hill-state-forest-nysdec-map?queryID=eb824498ff4125babc1c06655b111da4&objectID=42626406056092

     general info for this state forest is here: 

    https://dec.ny.gov/places/morgan-hill-state-forest

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 6, 2017

    Ludlow Creek Lean-To Campsite

    Ludlow Creek Lean-to

    This is a beautiful primitive hike-in campsite alongside the Ludlow Creek section of the Finger Lakes Trail in Chenango County, New York. It is located in a beautiful, unspoiled and seldom visited region of state forest, providing a wilderness type experience fairly close to several nearby villages, and only a half hour drive from the town of Norwich and less than an hour from the city of Binghamton.. The campsite is perfect for groups or individuals willing to hike in a short distance to this secluded spot. There is a large relatively new Adirondack-style lean-to in great condition, perched on an heavily wooded overlook above Ludlow Creek. The hike in from the trailhead to the north is relatively short, and recommended for easy overnight access. The hike is longer coming in from the south. The campsite is maintained by local volunteer members of the Bull Thistle Hiking Club, http://www.bullthistlehiking.org/p/about-us.html, which is a member chapter of the Finger Lakes Trail Conference http://www.fingerlakestrail.org/ If camping here, be sure to pack in water and plan to pack out garbage and leave no trace. Detailed maps of this trail section can be found in the Finger Lakes Trail East Passport Guide, see map E07, p. 21 at http://www.fltconference.org/trail/files/3814/0154/4940/Passport_East_View.pdf, or visit the interactive trail map at https://fltconference.org/trails/P/TrailConditionMaps/Interactive/Seg_Cat.html?Vifw#"

  • Gavin T.
    Oct. 23, 2017

    Blueberry Patch Campground — Green Mountain & Finger Lakes National Forests

    Simple

    The only Finger Lakes National Forest designated campground, Blueberry Patch offers a secluded experience in the heart of this sometimes overlooked beautiful geographic region in the State of New York. This campground offers a simple experience, with fire rings and picnic tables at each site and seems to accommodate just tent and small campers. Vault toilets available. On a week day in early summer, 3 of the 9 campsites we’re occupied. Can see it filling up on weekends. Enjoy!

  • Oleńka S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2023

    Bowman Lake State Park Campground

    Woodsy, pet friendly, and private

    We booked this as our first real camping trip with our new trailer, can’t recommend that for everyone lol, but we had a lovely time.

    We had a back in site with a fire pit, picnic table, and no hook ups. It was gravel and not super level, but we made it work. There was a potable water spigot a few sites over and a bathroom with showers a short walk away.

    This is a great spot for tent camping, so if that’s your vibe this place is perfect. We had a lot of tree cover so we didn’t even need our air conditioning on during an 85 degree day. There are a lot of mosquitoes, but with some bug spray and a couple thermacell mosquito repellents, we were comfortable the whole time. I loved cooking over the fire, the pit had a cinder block wall around it to set a grate on and block the wind. We had a lot of privacy because the campgrounds next to us were empty, but even if there were people nearby there was about 20-30 ft between our site and the next.

    The lake is small but calm and great for kayaking. There is a little “beach” there for swimming, but know that it’s a soft lake bottom further out.

    We really liked it here and booked another visit in August.

  • Sophie D.
    Oct. 5, 2016

    Watkins Glen State Park Campground

    Friendly, beautiful, and well organized

    I ended a two-day backpacking trek through the Finger Lakes National Forest at Watkins Glen. After grunting all the way up the long hill to the campground, I checked in with a wonderful and helpful employee. She gave me all the information about the campground and park that I could ever want, and then we laughed a little about the antics of young husky mixes (I had my dog with me on the hike). The campground is dog-friendly, provided that you have a current rabies certificate and keep him/her on leash.

    I stayed at a tent site, which has no electricity. RV sites, which cost a little more, provide electric hookups. My camp site and all the neighboring ones were clean. Water from spigots is easily accessible, as are showers and toilets.

    The campground is situated walking distance from the main attractions of the park; during the summer, a large swimming pool is a popular place to hang out with family. Hiking trails parallel the creek with beautiful falls. I was disappointed to find that dogs are not allowed on the Gorge Trail, which is closest to all of the falls.

    All in all, I loved this campground. It was a very relaxing place to spend the night.

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 2, 2017

    Pharsalia Y Pond

    Pharsalia Y Pond primitive campsite

    This campsite is a hike in stop on the Finger Lakes Trail, but can also be accessed by a short walk-in from Elmer Jackson Rd, or by paddling in from the parking area in the west side of the pond. The pond is deep and clear and stocked with brook trout, and the campsite on the east side of the pond is in an idyllic setting with good camping, fishing (canoe or kayak only), and day hikes on the Finger Lakes Trail. You can also walk or drive along various state forest riads to several other pinds in the Wildlife Management area for good birdwatching. From the south end if the pond is a cascade into a gorge which is the beginnings if Canasawacta Creek, which eventually flows to Norwich and the Chenango River.

    This is a primitive canpsite, no shelter or latrine but there are several fire rings and good tent sites as well as a gentle water access right on the shore. This would be a nice family friendly weekend destination, as well a a great stop fir through hikers. Previous campers have left the site in great shape.

    Camping in this DEC Wildlife Management Area campsite is limited, and requires a permit. Visit the regional DEC office at 1285 Fisher Ave., Cortland NY or call 607-753-3095, or email at Info.R7@dec.ny.gov ; allow one week for permit to be processed.

    More info about the WMA can be found here: http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/63889.html or http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/70693.html

    An interactive map for hiking in the area can be found here: https://fltconference.org/trails/P/TrailConditionMaps/Interactive/Seg_Cat.html?Vifw#"

    For more info and local area map, see page 15 and map E04 in the Finger Lakes Trail East passport guide:

    http://www.fltconference.org/trail/files/3814/0154/4940/Passport_East_View.pdf

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2024

    Long Pond Campground

    Great for Dispersed Camping!

    I was initially worried about the other people camping here because I was almost immediately visited by them but the poor kids just needed to charge their phone so I obliged. Aside from that this was a short drive in and 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.

    There is a port-a-potty near the entrance but otherwise a “leave no trace” situation which is fine considering the ample forest coverage in case there is someone who drives in.

    Each spot seems to have plenty of shade and access to downed firewood, and it looks like there are fire pits at each site. Lots of good tinder left over from previous guests which has been helpful.

    Beautiful views, quiet, no insect issues so far, and if I had a rod and reel I wouldn’t need to worry for food at all. T-Mobile service has been exceptional as well. 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.

  • K
    Jun. 29, 2021

    Sterling Creek Campground

    Nice tent spot, quiet, nice owner

    We stayed on a Monday night and it was very quiet. A lot of empty spaces. And a lot of seasonal campers were gone for the week. The owner was super nice and it was close enough to the State Park to run over to the beach. Nice large, flat spot with full shade. Maybe I'm still on Midwest pricing, but I get annoyed when I have to pay for a shower when I've played $25 for a non-electric and no water tent site. The bathrooms were clean.

  • N
    Jun. 14, 2019

    Blueberry Patch Campground — Green Mountain & Finger Lakes National Forests

    Great site

    What does blueberry patch campground offer? Large camp sites with a picnic table large enough for 6 adults (squeezed together), metal fire pit with grill, large tent footprint and space for 2-3 vehicles to park.

    For you fellow hammock campers reading this don’t worry! Most of the sites are compatible for hammocks, some sites you may have to be more creative to make it work.

    You can stay at this site for up to 14 days at $15pn (bring cash). There are two bathrooms on the site and bear proof dumpsters as well. There are many locals selling fire wood bundles for $5 each so no problems getting a fire going. Lastly for this part BRING WATER. There are no water sources near the site. There is a gas station about 15 minutes away on route 79 so make sure to fill up on water and snacks.

    The site is great. Lots of amenities and individual sites. They aren’t too far away from each other so you don’t feel completely isolated but far enough away to allow some privacy. There are some trails nearby and are worth a hike.

    Neil

Guide to Tully

Dispersed camping options near Tully, New York extend beyond established areas into several additional state forests within a 30-mile radius. Camping in these forests requires adherence to DEC regulations, including maintaining sites at least 150 feet from water bodies, roads, or trails. Most primitive sites accommodate 3-4 small tents on natural, uneven surfaces that may become muddy after rainfall.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds throughout the region offer trout fishing experiences. At Bear Wallow Pond, campers enjoy both fishing and paddling, with one visitor noting that "in summer, the shoreline wildflowers are riotous" while fall brings exceptional color.

Trail exploration: The extensive Finger Lakes Trail network connects several camping areas. Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite offers hikers "a perennial spring nearby, but campers should be prepared to filter or treat their water," according to an experienced visitor.

Wildlife observation: Ponds in the region support diverse animal communities, particularly amphibians. A camper at Spruce Pond observed that "the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night," highlighting the vibrant ecosystem present.

What campers like

Lean-to structures: Some campsites feature Adirondack-style shelters maintained by volunteer groups. At Pharsalia Woods, campers appreciate that the site includes "several picnic tables and fire rings, and firewood provided" by local hiking clubs.

Private waterfront access: Spruce Pond Camping Area features sites with individual water access. A camper detailed that "there are fire grills and nicely developed tent sites, one nestled in the woods and three with their own pond access."

Accessible options: Several sites accommodate visitors with mobility limitations. One reviewer highlighted that at Spruce Pond "one is actually handicapped accessible with its own accessible fishing landing and an easy access to the parking lot."

What you should know

Permit requirements: Most primitive sites in state forests require advance registration. Permits for Jackson Pond Tent Sites and similar locations must be obtained from "the regional DEC office at 1285 Fisher Ave., Cortland NY" with applications processed within a week.

Road conditions: Access to some dispersed sites requires traveling on unmaintained roads. One camper reported that the route to Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed camping "is a tough ride" with the road "in pretty rough shape" and marked as a low maintenance road.

Limited amenities: Most sites lack basic facilities. Even at more developed sites like Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground, visitors "need to come prepared to use the bushes by your campsite and leave no trace, plus bring your own water."

Tips for camping with families

Best tent camping near Tully, New York for kids: Choose pond-adjacent sites for water-based activities. Nature Lover's Paradise provides "70 acres of hiking trails" that are suitable for families seeking shorter nature walks.

Plan for wildlife encounters: Ponds host active wildlife that may disturb light sleepers. Bring earplugs for sensitive family members, especially during spring and early summer when frogs are most vocal.

Hygiene preparations: With no toilet facilities at most sites, families should bring portable toilet systems, hand sanitizer, and waste disposal bags. Plan to pack out all waste and garbage according to DEC regulations.

Tips from RVers

Size restrictions: Most forest roads leading to tent camping areas near Tully have limited clearance for larger vehicles. A small trailer or pop-up camper may access Morgan Hill's developed sites, which feature "two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits."

Alternative established campgrounds: For RVers seeking hook-ups, Empire Haven offers full-service sites within driving distance of hiking trails. A visitor described it as having "cabins over the years" in a setting that is "quiet and peaceful."

Seasonal considerations: Spring access is often limited by mud and seasonal road closures. Most forest roads remain unplowed in winter, making sites accessible only by snowshoe or cross-country skiing from December through March.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Tully, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Tully, NY is Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest with a 4.3-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Tully, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 19 tent camping locations near Tully, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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