Best Dispersed Camping near Warsaw, NY

Several free dispersed camping options exist within state forests near Warsaw, New York. Palmers Pond State Forest ranks highest among local options, featuring grassy camping spots under pine trees surrounding the pond. The area offers primitive sites with fire pits and picnic tables but no utilities or facilities. Access requires careful navigation, as multiple visitors note Google Maps directions lead to dead ends. Instead, campers should take West Almond Road to reach the north entrance. According to reviews from The Dyrt, "Abundant flat and grassy terrain under pines near a beautiful lake. Fire pits, a table, and parking area are in place but nothing else."

Other nearby options include Ossian State Forest, though recent visitor reports indicate deteriorating conditions with blocked trails and limited site accessibility. Camp Seneca provides an alternative with designated sites containing fire rings and picnic tables plus a portable toilet, while Boyce State Forest offers more rugged camping with a lean-to located half a mile along the Finger Lakes Trail. Most dispersed sites in the region permit fires and are suitable for tents, though few accommodate large RVs. These forest service locations typically follow Leave No Trace principles with stays limited to 14 days.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Warsaw, New York (10)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Warsaw, NY

6 Photos of 10 Warsaw Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Warsaw, NY

11 Reviews of 10 Warsaw Campgrounds


  • Zack B.
    Apr. 8, 2024

    Boyce State Forest

    Wet n wild

    Trail was more of a stream than a trail. You’ll spend more time beside the trail then actually on it. The campsite was a shelter off the side of the trail. It came with some firewood and cardboard to burn as well as some emergency water. Campsite was clean and came with an “air conditioned loo”. Lots of room for tents, however, most sites are not flat. Would recommend to come in dryer season or to bring rubber boots.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2019

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Favorite place to camp

    No electricity or water hook ups, very secluded, has a pond to fish in, by far my most favorite place to camp

  • Lizzy K.
    Oct. 29, 2021

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Love this place!

    Beautiful grassy spots around the pond and along the road in. Google maps directed us to a dead end, go in through the north entrance and you’ll be good!

  • M
    Sep. 3, 2020

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Perfect campsite

    Abundant flat and grassy terrain under pines near a beautiful lake. Fire pits, a table, and parking area are in place but nothing else. Lots of beavers to watch throughout the day.

  • Roger V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    beautiful spots near pond or in woods

    if the lake spots are busy check the woods, there are a bunch more nice spots. dispersed free LNT style. no services. would stay here again.

  • Sydney M.
    Oct. 22, 2022

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Pretty but hard to find

    The directions took us to a dead end like the other reviews stated. Do not take Palmers pond road. When you get off of Interstate 86 you will want to take turnpike rd to south road. There are not any lights to show the sign so it’s kinda hard to find. The pond was dried up when we got there so that sad kind of a bummer. Lots of camping along the road and around the pond. Nice quiet spot

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 12, 2019

    Boyce State Forest

    If roughing it is your thing

    If roughing it is your thing this is primitive tent sites on a small pond.located on the Finger Lake Trail. If you walk/hike 1/2 mile you will find a lean-to with fire pit and privy.

  • Marjoe M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 5, 2024

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    May 5th

    The site was very nice. Clean and well maintained. I was able to set up next to the water with no problem. Definitely will be back.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2024

    Camp Seneca

    Quiet and secluded

    We came I to the area on a Monday and this camp was completely empty. We picked the biggest site next to the creek. The tree canopy over our site was dense enough that w3 did not get very wet when it rains.

    This campground had several designated sites and most have a fire ring and picnic table.

    There was a porti-poty on site that had plenty of paper was pretty clean.

    We had a few hikers come through and one other camper that chose not to stay.


Guide to Warsaw

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Warsaw, New York, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Warsaw, New York

  • Many dispersed camping areas, like Ossian State Forest on Scoville Road, allow campfires, making it easy to enjoy evenings under the stars.
  • Be prepared for a primitive experience; facilities such as drinking water and electric hookups are often unavailable, as seen at Boyce State Forest.
  • Always check the accessibility of trails and roads before heading out, as some areas may have fallen trees or rough conditions, like those reported at Ossian State Forest West Camp.

Dispersed campers should check out Palmers Pond State Forest

  • Palmers Pond State Forest is known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, making it a great choice for those seeking tranquility.
  • The area is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure, which is a plus for many campers.
  • With no permit required, it offers a hassle-free experience for spontaneous trips into nature.

Camp Seneca for secluded camping experiences

  • Camp Seneca provides a quiet and secluded environment, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
  • The designated sites come equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, enhancing the camping experience for visitors.
  • Its proximity to a creek adds to the charm, offering a soothing sound of water that can make your stay even more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Warsaw, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Warsaw, NY is Palmers Pond State Forest with a 4.9-star rating from 8 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Warsaw, NY?

TheDyrt.com has all 10 dispersed camping locations near Warsaw, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.