Best Tent Camping near Utica, NY

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Utica and then fall asleep in your tent? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Utica. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Utica campsites are perfect for tent campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Utica, NY (18)

    Camper-submitted photo from Charles E. Baker State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles E. Baker State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles E. Baker State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles E. Baker State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles E. Baker State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Charles E. Baker State Forest

    1. Charles E. Baker State Forest

    2 Reviews
    7 Photos
    77 Saves
    Hubbardsville, New York

    This 9,400-acre forested property, located in southeast Madison County, makes up the core of the Brookfield Trail System. Charles E. Baker, combined with Brookfield Railroad and Beaver Creek State Forests, contain 100 miles of connected trails. These recreational trails are open for hiking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and mountain biking. Several trails are open for ATV use by permit only for people with disabilities. Primitive campsites are located at the Moscow Hill Assembly and Camping Areas, the Cherry Ridge Camping area, and other camping areas noted on the map. In these areas, camping is at designated sites only, except in the Moscow Hill Assembly area where there is room for RVs and trailers. Campsites feature picnic tables and fire pits. The Cherry Ridge camping area has potable water. Campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis. Lean-tos are also available for camping. See the map for locations. At large primitive camping is also allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Grandpa's Back 40 Glamping
    Camper-submitted photo from Grandpa's Back 40 Glamping
    Camper-submitted photo from Grandpa's Back 40 Glamping
    Camper-submitted photo from Grandpa's Back 40 Glamping
    Camper-submitted photo from Grandpa's Back 40 Glamping
    Camper-submitted photo from Grandpa's Back 40 Glamping

    2. Grandpa's Back 40 Glamping

    1 Review
    22 Photos
    1 Save
    Milford, New York

    As the name suggests, we are located on 40 acres of beauty! Your off-the-grid 20 ft. diameter glamping tent is set up near a small beaver pond at about the midpoint of our property. There is another large and deep pond that you may use our fishing boat or paddle boat on. Or fish from shore! There is an abundance of birds, frogs (they will serenade you), deer, heron, ducks, bald eagles and fireflies!

    Battery or solar lights are provided. A rechargeable light/outlet combo is also provided. This can be used for cell phone charging, the lamp, the fan, etc. It can be recharged in your vehicle if needed. The toilet and shower are rustic - compostable toilet and solar shower. Should you feel the need for a "real" shower there is a wonderful facility in Cooperstown called the Clark SportCenter. Not only is it a state-of-the-art gymnasium, but you may also get a day pass and enjoy a nice sauna and shower.

    Should you wish to have electricity we do have a generator that you may use, you will just have to purchase the gas for it. Be aware it will change the peacefulness of the spot. We have a portable Air Condition unit should you need it.

    We do have cell phone service, but Wifi is not available. We provide you with 5 gallons of water to be used for cooking and cleaning dishes. It is ok to drink too, but you may want to bring bottled water or containers. We have great well water and there is an outside spigot next to the well house where you have access to as much water as you need.

    Real dishes, pots and pans, utensils, some seasonings, a cooler, camp coffee maker, wine glasses, corkscrew, matches, firestarter, soap, dish soap, and probably a few things I missed, are all provided for you. You basically need yourself, your clothing and your food to cook.

    The yurt (bell) tent is located near the old train tracks. The Rail Explorers have pedal cart excursions that go out several times a day. Check out thier site. If you choose to take this excursion you will get 10% off when you use a code I will give you. On Saturday evening there is a Blues/Music Train that leaves from Milford at about 7 pm and goes all the way to Cooperstown for a 3 hour evening of music and fun. You get to hear and see it go by unless you decide to take the ride. It is fun!

    The fall is the best time to visit! Crisp mornings, beautiful nights for campfires, changing of the leaves, less traffic in the area.

    In the 1800's it was a celery farm, later a sheep farm. It has been in our family since the 1950's. We have enjoyed the serenity and beauty for years and are happy to share it with others. Your site is currently the only one of two on the property, so if you want privacy, this is it! The two sites are not next to each other

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Tent Cabin
    • Glamping

    $125 - $145 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park — Betty & Wilbur Davis State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park — Betty & Wilbur Davis State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park — Betty & Wilbur Davis State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park — Betty & Wilbur Davis State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park — Betty & Wilbur Davis State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park — Betty & Wilbur Davis State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Nature Lover's Paradise

    4. Nature Lover's Paradise

    2 Reviews
    1 Photo
    1 Save
    Fabius, New York

    You'll have full access to the tent site and 70 acres of hiking trails which connects to a larger network of trails that spans the Finger Lakes and continues west of New York.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $79 - $149 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pharsalia Y Pond
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharsalia Y Pond
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharsalia Y Pond
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharsalia Y Pond
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharsalia Y Pond
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharsalia Y Pond

    5. Pharsalia Y Pond

    1 Review
    9 Photos
    14 Saves
    South Plymouth, New York

    The primary purposes of Pharsalia Wildlife Management Area (WMA) are for wildlife management, wildlife habitat management, and wildlife-dependent recreation. This WMA is 4,689 acres in size and is located in the northwest portion of Chenango County, approximately 10 miles southwest of Sherburne. Pharsalia generally has flat or gently sloping terrain.

    In 1926 Pharsalia became the first State Game Refuge purchased with Conservation Fund monies. Thousands of trees and shrubs were planted for reforestation and wildlife purposes. A 200-man Civilian Conservation Corp camp accomplished much of the work and also constructed several small ponds for waterfowl use.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods

    6. Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods

    1 Review
    25 Photos
    8 Saves
    South Plymouth, New York

    Primitive camping is allowed. Campsites must be at least 150 feet away from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger. More details here: https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/41282.html

    Primitive camping is allowed on many DEC lands, including Forest Preserve lands in the Catskills and Adirondacks, as well as on State Forest lands outside the Preserve. Primitive camping is prohibited on Unique Areas, Wildlife Management Areas, and a few other categories of state land.

    Where to Set Up Camp The best place to camp is at designated primitive tent sites. These sites are typically flatter than other areas and have deeper, harder soils more resistant to heavy use and erosion, minimizing the impacts of camping. Many sites have nearby pit privies and rock fire rings.

    Yellow and black camp here marker attached to a tree "Camp Here" marker Campers are encouraged to use designated tent sites. They are often close to trails and provide views of ponds, lakes, streams or rivers. These can be a source of water when properly treated.

    All designated primitive tent sites have yellow and black "Camp Here" markers. Many sites on lakes and ponds are identified by a yellow number against a dark brown wooden plaque typically attached to a tree near the water's edge.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from O Land
    Camper-submitted photo from O Land
    Camper-submitted photo from O Land
    Camper-submitted photo from O Land
    Camper-submitted photo from O Land
    Camper-submitted photo from O Land

    7. O Land

    1 Review
    69 Photos
    New Berlin, New York

    This is a 36 acer property with 2 streams and 2 beaver ponds. In the parking area there is Wi-Fi, a fire pit and a porta potty. There is a small cabin in the parking area that electronics can be charged on the porch. The nearest gas station is 10mins, Walmart, bakery/breakfast w/mountain view, Pizza, tocos, sports bar and more all 20 mins from campsite. 4 waterfalls within an hr of camp site. Several canoe launch areas 10 min w/parking.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest

    9. Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest

    2 Reviews
    24 Photos
    3 Saves
    Apulia Station, New York

    From the Spruce Pond Camping Area, wheelchair accessible features include the:

    Primitive campsite (Site 1); and
    Portable toilet (seasonal)
    

    The campsite is approx. 75 feet from the parking area.

    Primitive camping at Spruce Pond, from May 1 through September 30, requires a permit from the Lands and Forests office. Please call (607) 674-4036 ext. 600, M-F 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM to obtain a permit. For the remainder of the year, sites are available on a first come, first served basis.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Pond Tent Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Pond Tent Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Pond Tent Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Pond Tent Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Pond Tent Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Pond Tent Sites
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Showing results 1-10 of 18 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews in Utica

327 Reviews of 18 Utica Campgrounds


  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Verona Beach State Park Campground
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Verona Beach State Park Campground

    Nice stop

    We needed a campground not too far off our route from Niagara Falls to NH and this was great. Very windy when we arrived. Our campsite 8 did not have a fire ring but others did. Right on water…can’t drive on path in front of the water sites so you are essentially on the water. Nice clean facilities.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Johnsville Campsite and Marina
    Oct. 4, 2024

    St. Johnsville Campsite and Marina

    Water and R.R. tracks

    One night stay. Great sight. Friendly helpful staff. Only drawback is steady stream of trains going by around the clock. I didn’t mind by my wife didn’t sleep well.

  • Carol L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Nature Lover's Paradise
    Sep. 26, 2024

    Nature Lover's Paradise

    cool

    The tent site and the 70 acres of hiking trails sound like the perfect getaway for anyone looking to reconnect with nature. I love the idea of having access to such a large network of trails, especially with the Finger Lakes area offering so much natural beauty. By the way, if you’re ever in need of some inspiration or ideas for nature-related essays, check out Nature Essay Examples and Topic Ideas on https://www.topessaywriting.org/samples/nature —there’s a lot of helpful content there! Overall, this seems like the ideal spot for anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Visit Eatonville
    Sep. 25, 2024

    Visit Eatonville

    Unable to contact this campsite

    Call the telephone number got a recording left a message. Did not get a call back. Send email. Got no response.

  • Ashley L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from DevilDoc Campsites
    Sep. 21, 2024

    DevilDoc Campsites

    Primitive camping with a great host!

    I came up here with my dog for a solo camping trip for a couple of days to get away! Rich the host is super nice and answered any questions I had about staying/getting there. I had the whole camp ground to myself so that was even better. It is definitely off the beaten path but we'll worth it if your just trying to escape a little bit. But Verizon does get service. There are some nearby trails that are within 15 minutes of the camp ground which is also a plus. No need to bring Fire wood as there is a ton all around you. You can also buy from the host as well. There was a decent portapotty on the camp ground which is very nice to have. This was just what we needed. We really loved our stay and cant wait to go back! Thank you Rich!

  • Eric L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Valley Campground
    Sep. 4, 2024

    Beaver Valley Campground

    Clean, well laid out campground

    Clean, modern bathrooms.  Campsites were raked and ready for us when we arrived.  Super friendly staff!  Just a well laid out campground that was perfect for us.  Peaceful, a mix of wooded sites for RV's and open sites with their cabins.  2 swimming pools, really nice playground for the younger kids, 2 baseball fields.  Just a top notch place.

  • Tate T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Delta Lake State Park Campground
    Aug. 10, 2024

    Delta Lake State Park Campground

    Nice but BUSY

    This was our first time here, and we were looking forward to a relaxing visit. The sites were very large and well spaced out, with a beautiful fire ring. The bathrooms were clean. This campground got a 3/5 mainly because quiet hours are not enforced. Unfortunately, people were up blaring radios until approximately 3 am, being roudy. At approximately 2 am, someone decided it would be a good idea to do burnouts with their diesel truck, and went around the camp loop twice, doing just that. Vehicles were driving by the campsites all night long. This is naturally not entirely the campgrounds fault, but it was unfortunate to be misled by the campground rules. On a positive note, the campground is dog friendly, in certain areas, with proof of rabies vaccination, of course. Overall, I would say that this campground is geared more toward the RV and trailer crowd.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from West Canada Creek Campground
    Jul. 28, 2024

    West Canada Creek Campground

    Great Family Campground

    This campground has it all. Heated pool, great store, large sites, surrounded by trees, events, soft serve ice cream, tube rentals to float on the creek (river). FHU as well as tent sites and cabins. We love staying here, the facilities are clean and big showers.

  • Randall K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Lakes State Park Campground
    Jul. 17, 2024

    Green Lakes State Park Campground

    If you love a good bathroom…

    Yes, it’s true! You’ve hit the campground bathroom lottery here!

    Let’s start off with the pros: bathrooms are great! Super modern and clean and hot, free showers! Very handicap accessible as well.

    The whole campground is very well kept. Completely litter free and all the buildings and signs are modern and cool looking. Five stars all the way for the people running this place. They are doing an awesome job keeping it very fresh.

    Maintenance/facilities: 5 stars

    Camping sites:

    I’ll start with the positive. It was a simple and easy, level site. And we had electric. So it was good.

    The cons: There is zero privacy here. Virtually no trees or shrubs between sites and sites are close to each other. In the rolling meadow sites opt for the electric as the tent only sites are basically a sardine can of campers. I mean in one spot the tents were so close to each other I thought it was a group campsite but it was not. Like a group hostel room but with tents instead of bunks.

    We were only here for 1 night passing through and it was great for that but I would not feel comfortable hanging outside at my site in quarters so close. Maybe I’m just weird because many people did. I can’t imagine spending any longer than 1-2 nights here. I would stay again but would check out other camp spots first. In our area 118 and 120 seemed to the best that backed up onto trees as opposed to just other sites.

    Camping sites: 2 stars

    Amenities: there’s a lot to do here. However I feel I must say you cannot reach the lakes from the rolling meadow campground without a car, bike or very long walk. You can see a bit of round lake through the trees but it really isn’t accessible. Expectations are the doom of any trip so just keep that in mind. You’re not going to bed with any sort of lake views or sounds near you. Also you can only swim at the beach which is pretty small and guarded by some pretty enthusiastic lifeguards taking the job pretty seriously. I guess you will appreciate it if you have little kids to me it was a turn off as I don’t prefer to feel like a fish in a bowl when I swim. But again this is just personal preference! Also there were a lot of rules at this tiny beach - more than I have seen at pretty much any other beach anywhere in the world. Mostly I assume the rules are there to protect the water which I can appreciate but don’t expect a relaxing lake vibe here. Lots of picnic tables and a perfect place to have a picnic and chill for a bit. Very clean beach bath area and I really appreciated the charging station with 4 covered outlets available and a charging counter. I didn’t use it but was impressed someone thought to add that in to the building plans.

    With all the rules in place there is just one missing: No political propaganda of any type should be allowed at the campsites. We were almost blinded by idiocy each time we walked to the bathroom as we had to go past a full size Trump flag someone was flying in front of their site. Can’t even imagine the rage I would’ve felt if I had to camp next to that. Fortunately I found a cut through in the woods which I used to get around it on the way to the bathroom. Camping is where you go to get away from all of it! This is state owned land and they should not be allowing that sort of inflammatory full sized political flag in any area as it only raises the blood pressure instead of dropping it. You can’t bring your own SUP or kayak, face mask or list of any other things to the lake (rules) but you can have your heart attack inducing propaganda all over your site and in everyone else’s face - makes no sense.

    Would I stay here again: Yes. But only for 1 night passing through. I felt too crowded to be there for any length of time. It was hard for me to relax outside.

    Value was a 5 star because I had full electric for $30/night and there was plenty to do. I should note for kids this place is a goldmine! Great playgrounds everywhere and you can rent kayaks. And it’s great for bikes. And it was all very handicap accessible which I thought was very impressive. You can tell a lot of thought went into the facility side of park. If they cut out 1/4 of the camp sites it would be spacious and amazing. And the trumpeter is just a case of bad timing for me, not a permanent thing (although I do think they should ban that decoration of insanity at state run parks).

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Forge Camping Resort
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Old Forge Camping Resort

    Very tight, no grassy areas

    The roads are through the campground are very tight making backing into a spot very difficult. There was very little grass around the sites, mainly dirt. They also charge for every extra activity. In general just too tight for my liking.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Delta Lake State Park Campground
    Jun. 25, 2024

    Delta Lake State Park Campground

    overcrowded, tightly packed, sketchy campers

    I'm not used to seeing so many druggies in a state park: they typically can't afford a state park. I pulled in and my site was free on both sides. Then a small car pulled in and a woman sat on the picnic table chain-smoking cigarettes. A little later a pick up truck showed up with three more people. A little later another vehicle showed up with more people. I think at one point there were at least five people, but you couldn't tell if it was a family or, some strange tribe. Well, they camped right under my window and proceeded to burn fallen sticks and branches and whatever they could find. They came and left a lot probably to get drugs.

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed

    Finger Lakes Trailhead off Grover Brown Rd

    The coordinates lead you to a small parking area at the end of Grover Brown Rd, which is accessed by going north from Rt 23. The road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintanence road. But if you follow the road north to the end, you will come to a dead end and a parking circle that gives you the option of hiking north past a gate into the state forest on a hunting trail, or west onto the Finger Lakes Trail where dispersed camping is allowed within the state forest. However, the whole road in is a tough ride, it is posted extensively en route that you are passing private property with no trespassing allowed until you see the DEC sign announcing the border of the state forest. The parking area is overgrown, the neighbors aling the road en route seem frustrated with hikers coming into the forest via this route, and the Trailhead here for the Finger Lakes Trail is blocked by downed trees that seem to have been there for a while. While you might try to hike the trail for day use, I wonder if this may not be a great place to leave your car during a foray into the woods for dispersed camping. Although the Pharsalia Forest is beautiful throughout, and dispersed camping is allowed throughout, there are better places to access it. There are also designated primitive campsites in several locations in other areas of this state forest which are worthy of your camping adventures! You

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area

    Primitive camping at Stoney Pond

    This is a primitive state forest campground on the south shore of Stoney Pond. There are 15 drive-in campsites widely spaced and set into the woods, and two developed walk-in sites on the west shore. Site number 1 is quite flat and open and could accomodate a trailer or camper van but isnt very scenic. The other sites are great for tenting but the drive-ins are variable. There are several new clean outhouses with doors meant to be wide enough for wheelchairs, but the gravel roads of the campground are not very wheelchair friendly. There is one site set aside for picnicking and day use only, on a very pretty spit on the south shore. There is a small boat launch meant for canoes and kayaks and small non mototized fishing boats, alongside a gravel peninsula for shore fishing. The pond is pretty with mature shade trees, and the campground also has a trailhead to access a large network of hiking trails. If you want to backpack in, dispersed camping is allowed throughout the forest

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground
    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
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Spruce Pond Camping Area - Morgan Hill State Forest

    Morgan Hill Spruce Pond campsites

    This review is for the Morgan Hill primitve campsites at Spruce Pond. Although dispersed primitive camping is allowed elsewhere throughout the state forest, this is a group of ten established and well maintained primitive campsites right on Spruce Pond with fishing available and an amazing network of hiking and cross country ski trails along with mountain biking along the forest roads. There are fire grills and nicely developed tents 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 and an easy access to the parking lot. There is a brand new outhouse with wide accessible doorway as well. The setting is scenic and peaceful, and you can easily paddle or fish on the pond. You can also easily hike from here to the Labrador Hollow overlook where area hang-gliders launch, you might see some in action or at least get an amazing view of the Labrador Valley!

    Note: a detailed map of the campground is here: https://extapps.dec.ny.gov/docs/regions_pdf/sprucepond.pdf

    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

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite in Pharsalia Woods

    Bear Wallow Pond

    This is a primitive undeveloped campsite, there is a clearing for tenting but no potable water or amenities of any kind. The site is adjacent to a small parking area and fishing access on a really beautiful pond, which is unnamed on the map but is an impoundment of Bear Wallow Creek so it can be considered Bear Wallow Pond. I have been there in both summer, when the shoreline wildflowers are riotous, and in fall when the changing leaves are breathtaking. If you camp here, you can kayak or fish on the pond, go mountain biking on the network of state forest roads that are all part of the Pharsalia Woods Game Refuge, or access the Finger Lakes Trail or Canasawacta Creek Trail (see website for this listing for map of the refuge and more info at https://cnyhiking.com/FLT-PharsaliaWMA.htm)

    You can get to the site from state highway 23 via the Benedict Hill Rd, or from the hamlet of Beaver Meadow going south and west of Cole Hill via Mud Lane. A peaceful pretty wooded spot not far from either Norwich or South Otselic for an easy overnight or weekend. I give it 4 stars not for amenities but for being an idyllic example of a dispersed primitive site

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Glimmerglass State Park Campground
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Glimmerglass State Park Campground

    It glimmers like glass! The lake and more

    Both the Glimmerglass State Park and the Glimmerglass Festival Opera House list their location as Cooperstown, but in actuality the Park is 8 miles outside of Cooperstown on the northeast side of Otsego Lake, with the Opera House nearby on the northwest corner of the lake nearby. If you are going to visit one, you should also visit the other! In fact the park is an ideal spot to stay if you are wanting to take in any of the Glimmerglass music or theater productions which have quite a professional lineup in the summer season. If staying at the park you will also enjoy the amazing beach and waterfront on Otsego Lake, and great kayaking on the lake as well as the stream flowing into it. You can also hike, ot take a day trip into Cooperstown, especially for museums and all things baseball.

    The camping opportunities give you three options: the main campground by the park office, which is wooded and shady and has electric hookups as needed, and is close to the beach, but you will have a lot of neighbors. If you want a quiet tenting experience, choose the Beaver Pond primitive tenting campground! This offers a small number of large, well spaced and private tent only sites set back in the woods by a beautiful pond and by the Beaver Hiking trail. Very peaceful with more solitude than the main campground, but a longer walk to the beach. The third and newest option, the Travis Field campsites, reminds me of an overflow parking area at an outdoor festival, unfortunately just a bunch of basic tent campsites plunked in an open grassy field located in between the beach and the Beaver Pond sites. I am guessing the park has greater demand for campsites than the original campground offers, so they put these spots up in an open field, and maybe folks would rather have these sites than nothing if they want a week at the lake, but they would not be a first choice unless perhaps you have a group that wants to gather together and take a block of these sites. I didnt check out the cabins, but there are some, which might be especially good if you want to come in the winter as the park is open year round

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park — Betty & Wilbur Davis State Park
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park — Betty & Wilbur Davis State Park

    Hidden gem for summer glamping or winter cross country ski getaway

    This is a small hidden gem of a state park where the only camping available is in camper cabins—and pretty amazing glamping for camper cabins! Although there may be times when there may be people and groups around for day use, the small number of cabins and they way they are spread out will make you feel like you are at your own private retreat. The cabins are beautifully built with lovely settings, and well appointed though you need to bring your own linens. There are a couple of ponds for fishing, but if you want to swim you need to go over to nearby Otsego Lake. The trails wind through mature forest, and you can cross country ski here in winter—in fact, reserve one of the winterized cabins and come for a long weekend of cozy cabin time and quiet time outdoors on the winter trails. There is a beautiful picnic pavilion and playground, so kid friendly. Unfortunately, pets can come for day use but cant stay in the cabins. Reservations must be made in advance for the cabins, and you can be sure they will be filled on special event weekends in nearby Cooperstown, especially for events at the Baseball Hall of Fame or the Farmers Living History Museum. . The park is far enough on the outskirts of town to be away from crowds and noise, but close enough to run to town for activities, get supplies or check out unique cafes and bakeries

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from West Canada Creek Campground
    Jan. 25, 2024

    West Canada Creek Campground

    Great campground

    I visited this campground. One of the notable features of West Canada Creek Campground is its proximity to outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, playing uno online, and kayaking. The West Canada Creek itself is known for its trout fishing, attracting anglers from various skill levels. Additionally, the surrounding area offers hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and natural landmarks. The campground provides various amenities and facilities for campers. These may include spacious campsites suitable for tents and RVs, picnic tables, campfire rings, and clean restroom facilities. It's always a good idea to check with the campground directly or consult recent reviews for the most up-to-date information on amenities and services.

  • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from O Land
    Oct. 20, 2023

    O Land

    New Listing

    Ashley here with The Dyrt. We're happy to welcome this new listing to our platform. Check them out and come back here to leave them some love.

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest
    Oct. 19, 2023

    Powley Road in Ferris Wild Forest

    Powley Road

    Had a quiet and peaceful stay. Must camp at a numbered site. Most sites are right along the road, but I was lucky enough to snag one deeper in the woods. Some of the sites even have an outhouse. Stayed in October, so when I left early the next morning, I passed a lot of hunters that had camped along the road, too. The road is in good condition. No AT&T cell service in this area.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from West Canada Creek Campground
    Oct. 15, 2023

    West Canada Creek Campground

    Wonderful camping experience!

    My wife, our 3-year old son and myself had the pleasure of spending 10 beautiful weeks at West Canada Creek Campground.

    From our first interaction to the time we left and every moment in between the owners of the campground were welcoming, kind, friendly and just overwhelming pleasant.

    Under new ownership as of Summer 2022. The new owners, Imrana and Jason, made us feel welcomed from the moment we checked in. Whether it be making recommendations for food, sightseeing or things to do in the area. Jason even went as far as stopping by our site to make sure everything was up to our satisfaction.

    The property is clean and well manicured. The camp store is well stocked. The bathrooms and showers are clean and well kept. The laundry room is clean and machines are new.

    The West Canada Creek wraps around the entire property and provides such a tranquil backdrop. The sites are surrounded by lush oaks and pines. Makes it feel as though you are truly immersed in nature. Most of the sites are fairly level, either gravel or grass.

    The campground also has a tubing business on property with an upstream shuttle as well as an ice cream stand! There is a playground with slides and swings as well as a swimming pool. There is a beach volleyball court, half court basketball and horseshoe pits.

    We stayed on three different sites (2 partial hookups, 1 full hookup). Each site was level and easily accessible.

    Throughout our 10 weeks there, we encountered dozens and dozens of guests who have been returning to this campground year after year.

    Their themed weekends and accompanying activities throughout the season are wonderful. We had the pleasure of staying for Labor Day weekend in which they had a kids carnival set up among many other things. Their Halloween weekend is truly a must see, with wagon rides and trick-or-treating! This weekend like many others fill up nearly a year in advance. Return guests reserve their spot the following year before they even check out.

    There are a number of seasonal sites with repeat guests who return year after year. Everyone we met was friendly and hospitable. The seasonal guest sites are well kept and clean and gives the campground a safe and serene atmosphere.

    The guests at the seasonal sites are invested in this campground, volunteering for the themed weekends. A vast majority of them go all out for Halloween weekend, decorating their sites and RV’s.

    Having had the opportunity to be on property for an extended time, I personally witnessed the dedication and love the owners are pouring into this campground daily. They continue to make improvements and updates that not only made our time here more enjoyable, but will certainly guarantee current and future guests will be returning year after year.

    We had a tremendous time here and would highly recommend visiting. We will certainly be returning. We are so happy to have been apart of the West Canada Creek Campground family.


Drive Time


Guide to Utica

Tent camping near Utica, New York, offers a variety of beautiful locations for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. From serene forests to well-maintained sites, there’s something for everyone.

Tent campers should check out Charles E. Baker State Forest

  • This site features a designated campsite with a fire pit and picnic table, perfect for a cozy evening under the stars. You can find more details at Charles E. Baker State Forest.
  • With ample space for dispersed camping nearby, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking solitude in nature.
  • Access is via a well-maintained dirt road, making it easy to reach for a weekend getaway.

Some prices for tent camping range from free to $50

  • Grandpa's Back 40 Glamping offers a unique glamping experience with amenities like showers and toilets, priced at around $50 per night.
  • For a completely free option, check out Jackson Pond Tent Sites, which provides a peaceful wooded location ideal for individual or group camping.
  • If you’re looking for a primitive experience, Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite is free and features a large Adirondack-style lean-to, perfect for a rustic retreat.

Explore local attractions while camping

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Utica, NY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Utica, NY is Charles E. Baker State Forest with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 18 tent camping locations near Utica, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.