Sugar Hill Fire Tower

For New Yorkers seeking an authentic outdoor experience without the price tag of a commercial resort, the Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campground stands as one of the most unique destinations in the Finger Lakes region. Located within the sprawling 9,085-acre Sugar Hill State Forest, this recreation area offers a rare combination of historic charm and rugged natural beauty. The centerpiece of the campground is the historic 68-foot fire tower, built in 1941, which grants visitors a bird's-eye view of the rolling New York countryside and the shimmering waters of Keuka and Seneca Lakes. It is a place where the morning mist clings to the valley and the nights are filled with the clarity of a star-studded sky, providing a perfect backdrop for those looking to "unplug" and reconnect with nature.

Unlike many highly regulated state parks, Sugar Hill offers a more relaxed, first-come, first-served camping environment that is especially popular among hikers, stargazers, and the equestrian community. The site serves as the primary trailhead for the Six Nations Trail System, a massive network of loops and spurs that attracts riders and trekkers from across the state. Whether you are climbing the steep stairs of the fire tower to catch the peak of fall foliage or setting up a basecamp for a multi-day hiking expedition, Sugar Hill provides a sense of freedom and solitude that is increasingly hard to find. It is a community-oriented space where you might wake up to the sound of horses neighing or find yourself sharing campfire stories with fellow travelers under the shadow of the towering steel structure.

Location and accessibility are excellent for those traveling through the southern Finger Lakes. Situated at 3361 Tower Hill Road in Watkins Glen, the campground is approximately seven miles west of the village of Watkins Glen. The route from the village is scenic but involves some winding hills; visitors typically take NY-409 west to County Route 28, then follow the signs toward Tower Hill Road. The main recreation area features a nine-acre open field that is easily accessible for cars, vans, and mid-sized RVs. While the road in is paved, the interior camping areas are grassy or gravel-lined. It is important to note that while the forest itself is open year-round, the main gates to the recreation area, the running water, and the flush toilets are typically seasonal, operating from the third Monday in May through the third Monday in October.

• Tent and RV Camping: A large open field provides space for 26 designated sites, accommodating everything from small tents to RVs with water hookups available in central locations.
• Self-Issued Permitting: Camping is free for up to three nights, requiring only a simple self-issued permit upon arrival at the kiosk.
• Potable Running Water: During the summer season, multiple water faucets are located throughout the campground for drinking and cooking.
• Public Restrooms: The site features a restroom facility with flushing toilets, which are well-maintained by the DEC during the peak months.
• Equestrian Services: As a major horse camp, the site offers 16 horse stalls, an accessible mounting platform, and ample space for horse trailers.
• Picnic Facilities: A large picnic area with a covered pavilion and numerous individual picnic tables and fire rings are available for day-use and campers.
• On-Site Parking: Dedicated parking lots are available for hikers and those visiting the fire tower, separate from the overnight camping area.

The features and highlights of Sugar Hill Fire Tower are led, naturally, by the tower itself. Climbing the 126 steps to the observation level (just below the locked cab) provides a panoramic view that is often cited as one of the best in Western New York. Beyond the heights, the forest floor is equally engaging. The Six Nations Trail System offers nearly 40 miles of trails that are open to hikers and, in the winter, cross-country skiers and snowmobilers. The area is also a designated "dark sky" friendly spot, thanks to its elevation and distance from major city lights, making it a favorite for amateur astronomers. For those with children, the "kid-friendly" nature of the trails and the excitement of the tower make it a top-tier choice for a family weekend.

• Historic Fire Tower: An open-access tower providing 360-degree views of the Finger Lakes region and surrounding forest.
• Six Nations Trail System: Access to 35-40 miles of multi-use trails that connect to the Finger Lakes Trail and North Country National Scenic Trail.
• Wildlife Observation: The forest is home to white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of migratory birds, perfect for nature photography.
• High-Speed Reception: Unique for such a remote spot, an on-site cell tower ensures excellent signal for those who need to remain reachable.
• Inclusive Accessibility: Features like the wheelchair-accessible mounting ramp and accessible restrooms ensure the park is welcoming to all.
• Seasonal Fall Foliage: Regarded as one of the premier spots in New York to view the autumn color change from an elevated perspective.

If you are planning a trip, keep in mind that this is a "carry-in, carry-out" facility, meaning you must take all your trash with you when you leave. While the camping is free, groups of ten or more or those wishing to stay longer than three nights must obtain a permit from a Forest Ranger in advance. For the most current information on weather-related closures or tower maintenance, contacting the DEC Region 8 office is recommended.

Address: 3361 Tower Hill Rd, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, USA
Phone: (607) 622-8282

What is worth choosing about Sugar Hill Fire Tower? It is the ultimate choice for the budget-conscious adventurer who doesn't want to compromise on the quality of the view. You are choosing a site that offers more than just a place to sleep; it offers a historic landmark, a massive trail system, and a community of like-minded outdoor lovers. The fact that it provides flushing toilets and potable water for free is a significant draw for "boondockers" and tent campers alike. For New Yorkers looking to experience the wilder side of the Finger Lakes while still having the convenience of a nearby town like Watkins Glen, Sugar Hill is a destination that truly delivers on its promise of adventure and serenity.