Cherry Ridge Campground

Cherry Ridge Campground, officially known as the Cherry Ridge Camping Area, is a serene and rustic destination located within the expansive Charles E. Baker State Forest in West Edmeston, New York. Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), this campground is a favorite among local outdoor enthusiasts who seek a traditional, "off-the-grid" experience. Unlike commercial resorts, Cherry Ridge focuses on the natural beauty of the Southern Tier, offering a peaceful retreat where the sounds of the forest replace the hum of technology. It is part of the larger Brookfield Trail System, making it a vital hub for hikers, hunters, and equestrian campers alike.

The campground is characterized by its simplicity and connection to the landscape. Historically significant as a former Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp in the 1930s, the area now provides nine designated primitive sites that are available to the public for free. For residents across New York, this location represents the gold standard of state-managed primitive camping, providing just enough infrastructure—such as fire rings and picnic tables—to ensure comfort while maintaining the rugged integrity of the wilderness. Whether you are planning a solo head-clearing trip under the stars or a small family adventure, Cherry Ridge offers a high-quality environment for authentic outdoor bonding.

Accessibility to Cherry Ridge is straightforward, though it requires a short drive on well-maintained gravel roads. Located at 965 Truck Trail 8 in West Edmeston, the campground is easily reached via State Highway 12 and Madison County Route 74 (Larkin Road). While the forest feels deep and secluded, it is conveniently positioned within a reasonable driving distance from Binghamton, Syracuse, and Utica, making it a popular weekend getaway for those in Central New York. The main camping loop is manageable for passenger vehicles and smaller RVs or truck campers, generally accommodating units up to 25 feet in length.

Once on-site, visitors will find that the campground is designed to be accessible and user-friendly. There is a wheelchair-accessible parking lot and modern portable toilets, including one designed for accessibility. The sites are arranged in a small, intuitive loop, allowing for easy navigation even for first-time visitors. For those bringing horses, the nearby Moscow Hill Assembly Area provides additional support, but Cherry Ridge serves as an excellent, quieter alternative for those who prefer to be nestled directly in the hardwood and pine stands of the forest.

As a primitive state forest campground, the services at Cherry Ridge are focused on providing the essentials for self-sufficient camping. There are no electric or water hookups, which is a key part of its charm for those looking to unplug. The following services and facilities are available to campers:

• Free camping on a first-come, first-served basis for stays up to three nights.
• Extended stays of up to two weeks permitted with a free permit obtained from a local Forest Ranger.
• Potable water available via a traditional "wheel well" pump located near the entrance.
• Two well-maintained portable toilets (porta-potties) located at the back of the loop.
• Designated fire rings at each of the nine campsites for safe campfire management.
• Sturdy picnic tables provided at every site to facilitate outdoor dining.
• On-site registration station where campers sign in upon arrival.
• Access to a vast network of state forest roads and trails for multi-use recreation.

The true highlights of Cherry Ridge Campground are found in the diverse recreational opportunities afforded by the Charles E. Baker State Forest. The area is a playground for those who love to move through the woods, whether on foot, horseback, or skis. Some of the most notable features and highlights include:

• A 100-mile network of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
• Excellent birdwatching and wildlife photography opportunities within a blend of pine plantations and natural hardwoods.
• Kid-friendly hiking paths that lead to scenic points, including a beautiful pond hidden in the woods.
• Seasonal hunting and trapping access in accordance with Wildlife Management Unit 7M regulations.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow dogs to join the camping trip (must be kept under control).
• Proximity to local natural wonders, including small waterfalls and brooks perfect for exploration.
• Exceptional stargazing opportunities due to the high elevation and lack of local light pollution.
• Winter recreation options including snowmobiling and cross-country skiing on groomed truck trails.

For individuals or groups planning a visit, especially those requiring a permit for a stay longer than three nights or for a group of ten or more, contacting the local DEC office is essential. The staff can provide the latest information on trail conditions and seasonal openings. Contact details are as follows:

• Address: 965 Truck Trail 8, West Edmeston, NY 13485, USA
• Management: NYS DEC State Forest Ranger
• Phone for Permits: (315) 886-1669 (Sherburne Lands and Forests Office)
• Standard Season: May 1st through December 1st

Choosing Cherry Ridge Campground is worth it for the camper who values silence, space, and a true connection to the New York wilderness. In a time when many outdoor spaces are becoming increasingly crowded and expensive, the fact that such a well-maintained, high-quality camping area remains free of charge is a significant benefit. The spacing between the nine sites is generous, providing a level of privacy that is rarely found in commercial parks, allowing you to truly feel like you have a piece of the forest to yourself.

Furthermore, the campground is a fantastic choice for families looking to introduce their children to "real" camping. With its clean facilities, easy-to-walk trails, and the novel experience of pumping water from a wheel well, it turns a simple overnight stay into an educational adventure. Whether you are singing songs by the fire under a clear moon or waking up to the mist rolling through the hemlocks, Cherry Ridge provides the perfect backdrop for the kind of memories that last a lifetime. For any New Yorker seeking a high-standard, low-cost escape into the heart of the state’s natural beauty, Cherry Ridge is an unbeatable option.