Primitive camping opportunities near West Danby, New York typically stay open from late April through October, with some sites available year-round weather permitting. The region sits in the southern Finger Lakes area at elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet, featuring mixed hardwood forests and small bodies of water. Fall camping offers colorful foliage displays while summer brings warmer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during daytime hours.
What to do
Fishing at accessible ponds: Long Pond Campground provides fishing opportunities with three dedicated access points, including a handicapped accessible pier. A visitor noted, "The pond is quite large compared to other area ponds, and there are three accesses for fishing: a regular boat launch with parking lot and dock, a carry-in kayak access near campsite 6, and a handicapped accessible fishing pier near campsite 1."
Hiking forest trails: Spruce Pond Camping Area in Morgan Hill State Forest connects to an extensive trail system. According to a camper, "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."
Paddling on calm waters: Cowanesque Lake at Lawrence Recreation Area offers paddling opportunities about 30 miles from West Danby. A visitor shared their experience: "Had a great few days here camped in RV next to lake. Amazing driftwood to be had. Good kayaking. Peaceful."
What campers like
Secluded pond access: Nature Lover's Paradise provides tent campers with private hiking trails. A camper appreciated the setup: "The tent site and the 70 acres of hiking trails sound like the perfect getaway for anyone looking to reconnect with nature."
Fishing-focused accommodations: Long Pond Campground receives positive feedback for its fishing amenities. A reviewer mentioned, "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."
Quiet environment: Belden Hill Campgrounds offers a peaceful setting for tent campers. A visitor commented on their experience: "Really nice clean and quiet campground. Incredible views. Staff and residents so helpful and friendly."
What you should know
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Long Pond Campground operates with minimal amenities. A visitor explained: "There is no water or garbage services at this site. Most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers."
Wildlife activity: Some tent campsites near West Danby come with active wildlife. At Spruce Pond, a camper warned: "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night."
Security considerations: Some dispersed camping areas have easy road access. At Long Pond Campground, a visitor observed: "The other campsites nearby are not located in a distinct campground, but are strung out along the shoreline close to the highways, each with its own driveway right off the highway, which creates a lack of privacy as passersby can quite easily pop right in off the highway."
Tips for camping with families
Shade coverage: Tent campsites near West Danby often feature good tree coverage. A camper at Long Pond noted: "The camp sites I saw all seemed to be large and level spots all located beneath the tree canopy. Sites seemed disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy."
Accessible fishing options: Some locations offer handicap-accessible fishing areas. At Spruce Pond Camping Area, a visitor highlighted: "One is actually handicapped accessible with its own accessible fishing landing and an easy access to the parking lot."
Early reservations: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Gardner Hill Campground, a visitor found their site unexpectedly: "I happened upon this campground by following the blue tent sign on the highway. No frills but very comfy and nice views."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most primitive tent campsites near West Danby can only accommodate small RVs. A Long Pond visitor advised: "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Water and power considerations: Bring sufficient water supplies to dispersed camping areas. A camper recommended: "Would rate 5 stars if it had water and a garbage dumpster."
