Primitive tent campsites near Warners, New York offer varied camping experiences beyond established state forest locations. The region sits at elevations between 400-1200 feet with a humid continental climate. Late spring through early fall provides optimal camping conditions, though some locations remain accessible year-round with proper winter gear.
What to do
Fishing at Spruce Pond: Access pond fishing at Spruce Pond Camping Area where anglers frequently visit. "Lots of fisherman frequent the pond. Toilet isn't set up yet but will once the season opens," notes Neil L. in his review of Spruce Pond Camping Area.
River fishing access: Stoneys Pineville Campground provides river access for seasonal fishing. "Friendly hosts and great place on the river," reports Vito M., while another visitor mentioned, "We have been out three is consecutively for salmon fishing and I have had a great time what a great place to stay."
Swimming and water recreation: Cross Lake Park Campgrounds offers direct lake access for various water activities. According to Sara H., "Fun place. Access to water and swimming. Nice playgrounds. We kayaked in the lake it was a lot of fun."
Hiking trail networks: Multiple camping areas connect to extensive trail systems. One reviewer at Nature Lover's Paradise noted access to "70 acres of hiking trails" that provide "the perfect getaway for anyone looking to reconnect with nature."
What campers like
Proximity to water features: Many campers appreciate waterside sites. Rose S. commented about Spruce Pond: "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night. Port-a-potty was available."
Quiet atmosphere: Despite being accessible, many sites remain peaceful. At Hall Island State Forest, Thomas E. noted: "There were fire ring set up a view of the water and for enable body person just a short walk up the path... you can't hear the cars at night but you're not too far from the road maybe half a mile."
Accessibility options: Some locations offer accessible sites for those with mobility considerations. Janet R. mentioned about Morgan Hill Forest campsites: "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."
Freedom from crowds: Free primitive sites often provide more solitude than commercial campgrounds. Kevin C. reported about Winona State Forest: "The campsite was just feet off of Bargy Road. The only amenity was a fire ring made of rocks... overall the campsite was quiet and peaceful."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most primitive sites lack amenities. At Morgan Hill Forest's Onondaga Trailhead campground, Janet R. advised: "note that there are NO OTHER ADA amenities at these sites, eg no water source and NO toilet or outhouse right at the campground... you DO need to come prepared to use the bushes by your campsite and leave no trace, plus bring your own water."
Seasonal conditions: Spring brings wetter conditions and more active wildlife. "The animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night," noted Rose S. about camping at Spruce Pond.
Navigation challenges: Many primitive sites have minimal signage. Thomas E. mentioned about Winona State Forest: "The primitive campsite was a little difficult to find there's a tiny black and yellow placard that shows you where you can camp."
Site selection timing: Weekday arrivals typically offer better site options. Kevin C. reports arriving "on a Thursday afternoon and found a single camp site. While there I talked to a state forest maintenance guy. He said there were currently two camping sites and that more might be added."
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with recreation options: Families appreciate multiple activity options. At Cross Lake Park Campgrounds, Sara H. found: "Fun place. Access to water and swimming. Nice playgrounds. We kayaked in the lake it was a lot of fun."
Consider noise factors: Wildlife can affect sleep quality. Rose S. warned about Spruce Pond: "the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night," which might disturb light-sleeping children.
Pack appropriately for site constraints: Site conditions may limit tent options. Neil L. advised about Spruce Pond Camping Area: "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 do here. Great trees for hammock camping though."
Verify water access beforehand: Water sources vary widely between locations. Some sites like The PineApple Farm offer drinking water, while most primitive sites require bringing your own supply.
Tips from RVers
Sizing considerations: Many primitive sites accommodate only smaller rigs. While some areas permit RVs, Neil L. noted at Spruce Pond that "the first few campsites are the best" but "the further down you go the worse the sites get," suggesting access limitations for larger vehicles.
Limited hookups: Most tent campsites near Warners lack RV amenities. For those requiring services, Empire Haven Nudist Park provides more options, with Joseph S. mentioning: "We've camped in two rustic cabins over the years. The campground is as quiet and peaceful as anyone would like."
Road access challenges: Forest road conditions can limit larger vehicle access. Kevin C. described Winona State Forest campsite as "just feet off of Bargy Road," but many primitive sites require walking in from parking areas.
Alternative accommodation options: For those seeking more comfort, some locations offer cabin alternatives. The PineApple Farm provides cabins and glamping options alongside tent sites, with Ashley F. noting it as a welcome "new property" to the camping platform.
