Primitive camping options flourish in the Whitney Point area of New York, situated within the northern Appalachian uplands at elevations ranging from 1,000-1,500 feet. State forests in Chenango County offer tent camping sites with varied terrain including mixed hardwood forests and small ponds. Seasonal considerations are important as winter access can be challenging on unpaved forest roads, while summer brings moderate temperatures and occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Long Pond Campground attracts local anglers with its sizable fishing pond and multiple access points. "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," notes a camper.
Paddle sports: Launch kayaks and canoes from designated water access points throughout the region. At Bear Wallow Pond Dispersed Campsite, "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," according to one visitor.
Hiking networks: Connect to the Finger Lakes Trail system for day hikes or backpacking trips. "From the south end of the pond is a cascade into a gorge which is the beginnings of Canasawacta Creek, which eventually flows to Norwich and the Chenango River," states a review about camping near Jackson Pond.
Wildlife viewing: State forests provide habitats for deer, turkey, and various bird species. "You can also walk or drive along various state forest roads to several other ponds in the Wildlife Management area for good birdwatching," mentions a reviewer about camping in the Pharsalia region.
What campers like
Peaceful seclusion: Tent campers value the quiet atmosphere away from developed areas. "Quiet, peaceful wooded location perfect for individual or group tenting, such as scout groups, fishermen, backpackers and hikers," notes a review of Jackson Pond Tent Sites.
Forested settings: Mature trees provide shade and natural surroundings for sites. "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," reports a camper at Long Pond.
Adirondack shelters: Several sites feature constructed lean-tos for protection from elements. "There is a large relatively new Adirondack-style lean-to in great condition, perched on a heavily wooded overlook above Ludlow Creek," explains a camper about Ludlow Creek Lean-To Campsite.
Multiple access options: Some sites can be reached by various methods. "The campsite is adjacent to a small parking area and fishing access on a really beautiful pond," states a camper about Bear Wallow Pond, noting access flexibility.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Several primitive sites require advance planning. At Pharsalia Y Pond, "camping in this DEC Wildlife Management Area campsite 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: Most sites lack amenities. "There is a port-a-potty near the entrance but otherwise a 'leave no trace' situation which is fine considering the ample forest coverage," explains a Long Pond camper. Another notes, "There is no water or garbage services at this site."
Road conditions: Access roads to some sites may be challenging. "The road itself is in pretty rough shape, and is marked with a sign that says it is a low maintenance road," warns a camper about accessing dispersed camping in Pharsalia Woods State Forest.
Security concerns: Some locations experience occasional issues. One camper observed at Long Pond that "some of the campsites closest to the road had evidence of driveby garbage dumpers who popped in and dumped household garbage right in a couple of the campsites."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible fishing spots: Some locations offer easy fishing access for children. "The lake is very scenic and very productive for fisherman," notes a visitor to Long Pond, making it suitable for teaching kids to fish.
Short hike-in options: Pharsalia Woods Lean-To Campsite provides a manageable approach for families with children. "Short twenty minute hike from trailhead, great for short local camping trips or through hikers on the Finger Lakes Trail," reports a camper.
Multiple site configurations: Group camping works well in certain locations. "Campsite is in an idyllic setting with good camping, fishing (canoe or kayak only), and day hikes on the Finger Lakes Trail," mentions a visitor about the Y Pond area.
Water features: Ponds and streams provide natural entertainment. "If you camp here, you can kayak or fish on the pond," notes a visitor at Bear Wallow Pond, providing recreation options beyond hiking.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive sites accommodate only small trailers. At Belden Hill Campgrounds, one camper notes, "Pull thru full hookup, level, spacious. Room for pop up canopy and games."
Hookup availability: Full amenities exist at select locations. "Good working utilities on nice sites. The views from the campground are great," reports a Belden Hill visitor.
Access challenges: Forest roads restrict larger vehicles. "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel," notes a Long Pond camper about primitive sites.
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects access significantly. "Unfortunately we were there after a lot of rain from the hurricane, site was wet but useable, not their fault," mentions a Belden Hill visitor, highlighting the importance of checking conditions.
