Stoney Pond Campground

For outdoor enthusiasts in the New York region seeking a truly immersive and rustic experience, Stoney Pond Campground stands as a premier destination. Located within the sprawling 1,469-acre Stoney Pond State Forest in Madison County, this campground offers a departure from the crowded, high-activity commercial parks often found elsewhere. It is a place where the sounds of traffic are replaced by the call of blue herons and the gentle rustle of white pine plantations. As a state-managed facility, it prioritizes the preservation of the natural landscape, offering visitors a chance to experience the "wild" side of Central New York while still providing a structured camping area.

The centerpiece of the forest is the 44-acre Stoney Pond, which was originally constructed in the late 1950s to provide a rich habitat for local wildlife. Today, it serves as a tranquil backdrop for one of the most popular primitive camping spots in the region. The atmosphere is quiet, professional, and deeply rooted in the "carry-in, carry-out" philosophy of New York's Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Whether you are looking to spend a night under the stars in a tent or seeking a basecamp for a weekend of hiking and paddling, Stoney Pond offers a serene environment that is particularly well-suited for those who value privacy and a direct connection with nature.

Location and accessibility are important considerations for those planning a visit to this hidden gem. Stoney Pond Campground is situated on Stony Pond Road in Erieville, NY, within the Town of Nelson. It is conveniently located for residents of Syracuse, Utica, and Hamilton, providing a quick escape into the woods without a grueling drive. However, visitors should be aware that the final stretch of the journey involves seasonal dirt roads. While these roads are generally well-maintained during the summer months, they are not plowed in the winter. As experienced local campers have noted, 4-wheel drive and high-clearance vehicles are highly recommended if you plan to visit during the snowy season or early spring when the ground can be soft and muddy.

The campground features a main loop road that provides drive-in access to most sites, though the layout is purposely designed to keep campsites widely spaced. This ensures that even when the park is at full capacity, you maintain a sense of seclusion. For those who prefer to truly get away, there are also walk-in sites that require a short hike, offering an even deeper level of immersion in the forest environment. The elevation of the park often means it is one of the first areas to see snow in the winter and one of the last to thaw, so checking local weather conditions before heading out is always a wise move for New York travelers.

The services offered at Stoney Pond Campground are intentionally limited to maintain the primitive character of the state forest. This is not a "glamping" destination; rather, it is a facility designed for those who come prepared with their own gear and supplies. The management focuses on providing the essential infrastructure for safe and regulated camping while keeping the environment as natural as possible.

• 17 designated primitive campsites, including 15 drive-in sites and 2 walk-in tent sites.
• Free camping permits required from May 1 through September 30, accessible via the Reserve America system.
• A non-motorized boat launch facility specifically for canoes, kayaks, and small fishing boats.
• Basic sanitation services including two commercial portable toilets available during the peak season.
• Official fire rings or fireplaces provided at each designated campsite to manage safety.
• A designated day-use area located adjacent to the boat ramp for picnics and shore fishing.
• Access to a professional network of New York State Forest Rangers for safety and information.
• Marked trailhead access within the camping area for immediate entry into the forest's trail system.

The features and highlights of Stoney Pond State Forest make it a year-round destination for a variety of recreational activities. While the camping area is a major draw, the surrounding forest is a hive of activity for birdwatchers, anglers, and endurance athletes. The diversity of the flora, from natural hardwood stands to planted evergreen groves, provides a changing palette of colors and scents throughout the year.

• A 13-mile network of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running during the warmer months.
• The Stoney Pond Nordic Ski Trail System, which is groomed in the winter for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
• Excellent fishing opportunities for largemouth bass, panfish, and chain pickerel within the 44-acre pond.
• Wildlife viewing opportunities, with frequent sightings of Canadian geese, mallard ducks, and migratory waterfowl.
• Total immersion in a "quiet forest" environment, as gas-powered motors are strictly prohibited on the water.
• Sites 3, 10, and 14 are specifically designated as accessible sites to ensure all visitors can enjoy the park.
• Pet-friendly regulations that allow leashed dogs, provided owners have proof of valid rabies vaccination.
• Dispersed camping options throughout the 1,469-acre forest for those who prefer to camp 150 feet away from roads and water.

To ensure a smooth experience, especially during the busy summer months, it is highly recommended to plan your visit well in advance. During the peak season (May 1 – September 30), a permit is mandatory to occupy any of the 17 designated sites. Permits are free but must be reserved through the official New York State Parks or Reserve America portals. During the off-season, sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, though a permit is still required for groups of nine or more or stays longer than three nights.

Address: Stony Pond Rd, Erieville, NY 13061, USA

Contact (DEC Region 7): (607) 674-4036

Ranger Dispatch: (518) 408-5850

When considering where to spend your time in the Central New York outdoors, Stoney Pond Campground is worth choosing because it offers one of the few completely free, high-quality primitive camping experiences in the state. The ability to reserve a site in advance without a fee is a significant advantage, though it does mean sites can fill up weeks in advance. It is worth choosing for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your site is secured while still enjoying the "off-the-grid" feel of a state forest. The strict "no gas motor" rule on the pond ensures that your mornings are met with the sounds of nature rather than engines, a rare luxury in modern camping.

Furthermore, the 13 miles of trails make it a top-tier choice for active campers. You can start your day with a paddle on the glass-like surface of the pond, spend the afternoon hiking the ridges of Madison County, and end the evening by a fire fueled by dead and downed wood from the surrounding forest. While the primitive nature of the park means you must bring your own water and carry out your own trash, the reward is a cleaner, quieter, and more authentic New York wilderness experience. If you are prepared for the ruggedness of the terrain and the simplicity of the amenities, Stoney Pond Campground will likely become one of your favorite local escapes.

Ultimately, choosing Stoney Pond is about choosing to respect and enjoy the natural heritage of Erieville. It is a place for the disciplined camper who follows the rules and appreciates the effort the DEC puts into maintaining these public lands. If you are looking for a place to unplug, recharge, and explore the diverse ecosystems of Madison County, there is no better place to set up your tent than the shores of Stoney Pond.