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Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Palmers Pond State Forest

Palmers Pond State Forest, near West Almond, New York, is a laid-back spot perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle. With its grassy areas and scenic views, it’s a great place to pitch a tent and soak in the natural beauty.

This location is all about simplicity—there are no fancy amenities, but you can enjoy campfires and bring your pets along. Visitors have raved about the peacefulness, with one camper noting, “I found one of the first spots and was very comfortable.” The area is also known for its flat terrain, making it easy to set up camp and enjoy the outdoors.

If you’re into fishing, you’ll appreciate the nearby pond, although some have mentioned it can be a bit tricky to find your way there. The roads leading in can be a bit confusing, so keep an eye out for the right turns. Campers have enjoyed the quiet atmosphere, with plenty of space to relax and unwind. As one happy camper put it, “Abundant flat and grassy terrain under pines near a beautiful lake.”

For those looking to explore, the surrounding area offers trails for hiking and horseback riding, adding to the outdoor experience. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, Palmers Pond State Forest provides a peaceful retreat where you can truly connect with nature.

Description

State Park

Palmer's Pond State Forest totals 3,645 acres. This area provides opportunities for outdoor recreational activities like snowshoeing, hiking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, camping, hunting, fishing, bird watching, and nature photography.

The state forest is also a source of raw material for New York's forest products industry which provides employment and income for many New Yorkers and provides various habitats for many wildlife species such as deer, rabbit, grouse, and turkey.

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Location

Palmers Pond State Forest is located in New York

Detail location of campground

Directions

To reach Palmer's Pond: From Interstate 86, take exit 32 (West Almond) and head west on Karr Valley Road towards village of West Almond. By the town barns, make a sharpleft onto Turnpike Road and then an immediate right onto South Road, continue for 1.6 miles, then turn right onto Palmers Pond road, go 1 mile to the pond day use and parking area. To reach the parking areas on Miller Road: From Interstate 86, take exit 32 (West Almond) and head west on Karr Valley Road for 0.2 miles, then turn right onto Miller Road. After 1.8 miles the parking areas and trailheads will be on the right and left, opposite each other.

Coordinates

42.28324477 N
77.89764518 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Available
  • AT&T
    Good
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Picnic Table
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Palmers Pond State Forest needs a permit.


Reviews

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7 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 7, 2024

Quiet and beautiful

The written directions from other reviews were easy to follow. The road was gravel but pretty easy to drive. I found one of the first spots and was very comfortable. Beautiful space, some people drove past but not much noise aside from that. Loved this spot!

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Palmers Pond State Forest by Caitlyn R., July 7, 2024
Reviewed May. 5, 2024

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.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Palmers Pond State Forest by Marjoe M., May 5, 2024
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  • Review photo of Palmers Pond State Forest by Marjoe M., May 5, 2024
Reviewed Oct. 22, 2022

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

Month of VisitOctober
Reviewed Oct. 29, 2021

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!

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Palmers Pond State Forest by Lizzy K., October 29, 2021
  • Review photo of Palmers Pond State Forest by Lizzy K., October 29, 2021
Reviewed Sep. 28, 2020

Incredible mornings

Place was incredible! I drove out from Wisconsin and was the only on there. Threw up the tentsile tent over looking the pond on the south side. What a wonderful way to wake up..

⚠️Side note TAKE WEST ALMOND road as the other road is blocked off⚠️

Reviewed Sep. 3, 2020

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.

  • Review photo of Palmers Pond State Forest by Matt M., September 3, 2020
  • Review photo of Palmers Pond State Forest by Matt M., September 3, 2020
  • Review photo of Palmers Pond State Forest by Matt M., September 3, 2020

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Palmers Pond State Forest?

    Palmers Pond State Forest is located at 2115 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Palmers Pond State Forest?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Palmers Pond State Forest, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.