Dispersed camping opportunities surround Whitney Point, New York within several state forests that cover the rolling hills of central New York. The region sits at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,800 feet, with hardwood forests dominating the landscape. Winter access becomes difficult in many areas as most forest roads aren't maintained during snowy months.
What to do
Fishing at dedicated ponds: Long Pond Campground features a substantial fishing area with three distinct access points for anglers. "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," reports a visitor to Long Pond Campground.
Hiking forest trail networks: Morgan Hill State Forest contains extensive trail systems including the Onondaga Trail. A camper notes that "you can backpack in to the woods on the Onondaga Trail or connecting trails," from the Morgan Hill State Forest trailhead parking areas, though warns "the various trails are blazed and have occasional signs, but they crisscross in a confusing network and you can get easily turned around without a map."
Bird watching at unique habitats: Round Pond in Pharsalia Woods offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. "One amazing aspect at this site is a beautiful and accessible raised boardwalk to a unique overlook that has a beautiful vista over the bog and is an amazing place for birdwatching especially during spring migration," according to a visitor to Round Pond Pharsalia Woods.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Campers appreciate the direct water access at many primitive sites. One camper at Long Pond noted, "I was able to score a spot right on the pond next to a dock. 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."
Varied camping options: The region offers everything from drive-up sites to remote backcountry spots. At Morgan Hill Forest Onondaga Trailhead, "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."
Unique natural features: The area contains distinctive ecosystems worth exploring. Whaupaunaucau State Forest offers "lovely hilly vistas, pondside glens, and lots of clearings near clear streams deep in this old stately forest. A great place to get away from it all for hiking and camping but it is also a fantastic place to go if you enjoy botanizing or birding."
What you should know
Road access challenges: Some forest access roads can be problematic. A visitor to Pharsalia Woods State Forest reported that "the road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintenance road," and warned that "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."
Limited facilities: Most rustic camping near Whitney Point requires self-sufficiency. At Bear Wallow Pond, "there is a clearing for tenting but no potable water or amenities of any kind," although the site is "adjacent to a small parking area and fishing access on a really beautiful pond."
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping presents significant challenges. One camper reported about Beals Pond State Forest that "this state forest is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some primitive locations are more family-friendly than others. At Long Pond, "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."
Look for designated facilities: While limited, some areas do offer basic amenities. One camper at Long Pond noted "We stayed in the space across from the port-a-pottie. The other camping spaces we close enough to see their campfire at night but far enough away that it's still quiet."
Check fishing opportunities: Several ponds offer kid-friendly fishing opportunities. At Balsam Pond, "the pond itself is beautiful and is one of the larger state forest ponds in the area preserved in a natural state with no shoreline development other than the small campground and the public boat launch."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most rustic camping sites have significant restrictions for larger vehicles. At Bucks Brook State Forest, primitive camping is mainly tent-focused as "this truly is primitive camping, no picnic tables, no lean-to shelter like at some other area FTL campsites, no water source other than the brook."
Limited hookups: No rustic camping areas near Whitney Point offer electrical or water connections. At Long Pond, campsites are "ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers" and "the trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Consider alternative options: Some areas have designated spots for small RVs. Morgan Hill Forest Onondaga Trailhead offers "two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits," though visitors should note there are "NO OTHER ADA amenities at these sites, eg no water source and NO toilet or outhouse right at the campground."
