Winona State Forest

Two primitive campsites sit just feet from Bargy Road in this dispersed camping area managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Kevin C. found the sites equipped with basic rock fire rings, while Thomas E. noted the small black and yellow placards that mark camping locations. State forest maintenance staff confirmed plans for potential expansion beyond the current two sites.

The road-accessible location provides cell service and allows campfires, though campers should expect wet firewood during rainy periods. One campsite serves as a trailhead for a man-made trail system. For those planning extended stays in the region, camping areas around Lorraine offer additional options. This free camping spot works well for campers comfortable with minimal amenities and road proximity.

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Map & DirectionsWinona State Forest is located in New York near Lorraine

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

43.71054584 N
75.97309385 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 6/5/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Fires

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 Winona State Forest needs a permit.

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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Winona State Forest

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4.5

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2 Reviews

Reviewed Apr. 1, 2025

Free and Quiet

The primitive campsite was a little difficult to find there’s a tiny black and yellow placard that shows you where you can camp. There were some firewood set out except it was wet. Overall a good free quiet place to camp.

Month of VisitApril
Reviewed Aug. 8, 2024

Small but quiet campsite

Pulled in on a Thursday afternoon and found a single camp site. While there I talked to a state forest maintenance guy. He said there were currently two camping sites and that more might be added.

The campsite was just feet off of Bargy Road. The only amenity was a fire ring made of rocks. The campsite appears to be the trailhead for a man-made trail.

It rained while we were here but overall the campsite was quiet and peaceful.

Site1
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Winona State Forest by Kevin C., August 8, 2024
  • Review photo of Winona State Forest by Kevin C., August 8, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

What permits or reservations are required for camping in Winona State Forest?

No advance reservations or permits are required for camping in Winona State Forest. The camping is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. These are free primitive campsites with no registration system in place. However, it's always advisable to check with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for any seasonal regulations or policy updates before your trip.

Where are the designated camping areas in Winona State Forest?

Winona State Forest has a small number of designated primitive campsites. There are currently two established camping areas located just feet off Bargy Road. These sites are marked with small black and yellow placards that indicate where camping is permitted, though they can be somewhat difficult to spot. The forest maintenance team has mentioned that additional sites might be added in the future. The existing campsites are very basic with minimal development.

What recreational activities are available near Winona State Forest camping areas?

Winona State Forest offers various recreational opportunities in a natural setting. Visitors can enjoy hiking through the forest, wildlife observation, and stargazing in this quiet environment. The forest setting is ideal for nature photography and bird watching. During winter months, the area may be suitable for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, while summer allows for exploration of the surrounding forest areas. Since amenities are minimal (only fire rings are present at campsites), visitors should come prepared for self-sufficient outdoor recreation.