Tent camping near West Edmeston, New York offers access to the central New York forests in Chenango County, where elevations range from 1,100 to 1,800 feet. The area features a mix of hardwood forests, small ponds, and wetlands with numerous primitive camping opportunities throughout state forests. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing with significant snowfall, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several ponds throughout Pharsalia Woods State Forest provide trout fishing opportunities. At Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite, one visitor noted, "The site is adjacent to a small parking area and fishing access on a really beautiful pond... I have been there in both summer, when the shoreline wildflowers are riotous, and in fall when the changing leaves are breathtaking."
Finger Lakes Trail hiking: Access multiple hiking sections within these forests. At Jackson Pond Tent Sites, campers can enjoy a "great primitive campsite located close to Jackson Pond with access from a small parking area and trailhead of the Finger Lakes Trail, or via canoe or non-motorized boats from a nearby boat launch to the north."
Mountain biking routes: The network of state forest roads offers excellent biking terrain. One reviewer mentioned that at Bear Wallow Pond, "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."
What campers like
Accessible water features: Many primitive sites offer pond or creek access. A camper at Y Pond described it as "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."
Free camping options: State forests provide no-cost camping opportunities. A visitor at Charles E. Baker State Forest reported, "Beautiful forest with miles of trails. I found this spot passing through on my bike and had no problem pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the woods."
Group camping facilities: Some sites accommodate larger parties. At the Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite, volunteers maintain a "beautifully maintained primitive group campsite with large Adirondack style lean-to, several picnic tables and fire rings, and firewood provided."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some camping areas require advance planning. For the Jackson Pond site, "Camping in this DEC Wildlife Management Area 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."
Limited facilities: Prepare to be self-sufficient. At Pharsalia Woods State Forest Dispersed, a camper warned about access challenges: "The road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintanence road... the whole road in is a tough ride."
Water treatment: Natural water sources require filtering. For Y Pond, a reviewer noted, "This is a primitive canpsite, no shelter or latrine but there are several fire rings and good tent sites... There is a perennial spring nearby, but campers should be prepared to filter or treat their water."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives: For families wanting more comfort, consider nearby options. At Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park, a visitor praised the accommodations: "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... The cabins are beautifully built with lovely settings, and well appointed though you need to bring your own linens."
Easier access sites: Some locations offer shorter walks to campsites. The Jackson Pond site provides a "quiet, peaceful wooded location perfect for individual or group tenting, such as scout groups, fishermen, backpackers and hikers."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bring binoculars for nature observation. From Y Pond, "You can also walk or drive along various state forest riads to several other pinds in the Wildlife Management area for good birdwatching."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most sites aren't suitable for larger vehicles. One camper noted about Charles E. Baker State Forest, "Camped here on a Thursday night in late September. Only found one designated campsite, which was available, but there's a lot of good space for dispersed camping right nearby. Access at the end of a long, but well maintained, dirt road."
Seasonal road conditions: Access varies greatly by season and weather. At Pharsalia Woods, "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."
Parking challenges: Leave vehicles at designated areas. At Y Pond, "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."
