Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area

3.88

25 reviews

Stoney Pond Road, Erieville, New York, 13061, United States

Quick Facts

1,535 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

17 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,535 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

17 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) site

Official Website

Get Directions

Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping is free with a permit for Madison County residents.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

3.88

Mixed Reviews

Based on 25 reviews

185 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietpeaceful

"The campground draws attention for its serene, quiet atmosphere, wide range of outdoor activities, and the fact that it is free with a permit. However, issues like lack of enforcement of permit rules and occasional noise disturbances are noted. Visitors appreciate the rustic and natural environment but wish for better maintenance and stricter rules."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Stoney Pond Road, Erieville, New York, 13061, United States

Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area

Stoney Pond Road, Erieville, New York, 13061, United States

Driving directionsFrom Village of Cazenovia: travel East on NYS Route 20, about 4 miles to the Village of Nelson. Turn South (right) onto County Rt 67 (Erieville Road), about 1.5 miles to Old State Road. Turn East (left) onto Old State Road, about 3 miles to Jones Road. Turn South (right) onto Jones Road, about 1.5 miles to Stoney Pond Road. Turn East (left) onto Stoney Pond Road to camping area. From City of Oneida: travel South on NYS Route 46, about 14.5 miles to intersection with NYS Route 20 (Pine Woods). Turn West (right) onto NYS Route 20, about 6.5 miles (through Village of Morrisville) to Willowvale Road. Turn South (left) onto Willowvale Road, about 0.75 miles to Old State Road. Turn West (right) onto Old State Road, about 0.75 miles to Jones Road. Turn South (left) onto Jones Road, about 1.5 miles to Stoney Pond Road. Turn East (left) onto Stoney Pond Road to camping area.

The campground is accessible via paved county roads, as detailed in the driving directions. No mention of seasonal closures or unpaved challenging terrain.

Nearby places

Village of Cazenovia (~4 miles), Village of Nelson (~4 miles), City of Oneida (~14.5 miles).

Best Time to Camp at Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area

Experience the dramatic beauty of changing seasons at Stoney Pond, where each time of year paints the landscape in distinct moods. Winter transforms the forest into a hushed wonderland of snow-laden branches and crystalline air, perfect for those seeking solitude amid nature's frozen artistry. As warmth returns, summer brings verdant canopies and gentle breezes, though the moderate humidity reminds you you're immersed in a living, breathing ecosystem. Spring and fall offer their own rewards, with wildflowers or brilliant foliage creating unforgettable backdrops for your camping adventure.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Summer offers hiking and paddling but higher visitor numbers can bring noise and crowding.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Popular in fall for trails and scenic foliage; reviewers praise seasonal beauty.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Spring info incomplete in summary; likely pleasant but can be muddy and quieter than peak seasons.

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Top 9% in NY

Trails groomed for skiing/snowshoeing; winter described as a 'hushed wonderland' by visitors.

Planning Tips

About Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area

Escape to the tranquil wilderness of Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area, where authentic outdoor experiences await beneath towering canopies. This pristine NYS DEC-managed retreat offers 17 thoughtfully spaced primitive campsites, each equipped with its own fire pit for evening gatherings under starlit skies. While embracing a back-to-basics camping philosophy with no running water or showers, the area maintains essential amenities including port-a-john facilities and full handicap accessibility, ensuring everyone can enjoy this natural sanctuary.

Stoney Pond offers primarily primitive camping with designated sites for tents and RVs. There are accessible sites for campers with disabilities, but no advanced accommodations like cabins or group camping options.

Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this peaceful forest retreat remains quietly tucked away like the woodland creatures that call it home, the land itself tells stories through ancient trees and weathered stones, inviting visitors to create their own lasting memories in this timeless natural setting.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of changing seasons at Stoney Pond, where each time of year paints the landscape in distinct moods. Winter transforms the forest into a hushed wonderland of snow-laden branches and crystalline air, perfect for those seeking solitude amid nature's frozen artistry. As warmth returns, summer brings verdant canopies and gentle breezes, though the moderate humidity reminds you you're immersed in a living, breathing ecosystem. Spring and fall offer their own rewards, with wildflowers or brilliant foliage creating unforgettable backdrops for your camping adventure.

ElevationThe gently rolling terrain creates an accessible camping experience where the forest floor meets the sky through breaks in the canopy, offering varied perspectives of the surrounding wilderness without challenging climbs.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a world where towering trees create natural cathedral ceilings above your campsite, their branches whispering ancient secrets in the breeze. The centerpiece pond mirrors the sky and surrounding forest, offering peaceful moments of reflection and wildlife watching. Meandering trails wind through the dense woodland, revealing sun-dappled clearings perfect for day hikes and nature photography. This pristine ecosystem showcases the raw beauty of upstate New York's forests, where every turn reveals another postcard-worthy scene.

Geological RegionNestled within New York's Non Forest Preserve state lands, Stoney Pond showcases the region's characteristic dense hardwood and evergreen forests. The landscape tells a geological story of glacial influence, with the pond itself likely carved by ancient ice, now serving as a serene centerpiece to this protected woodland. The surrounding state forest exemplifies the successful conservation of these vital ecosystems, where mature tree communities thrive alongside the aquatic habitat.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

After 1:00 PM

Check-out

No later than 11:00 AM

Stay Limit

Camping stays are limited to 14 cumulative nights per season.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Limited to 8 individuals per campsite.

Groups

Group camping is not available at this campground.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites vary in size; larger sites recommended for privacy and multi-tent setups.

Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made online via the NYS DEC platform.

Walk-in AvailabilityPermit required; no indication of walk-up availability.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations are not permitted.

AccessibilitySites 3, 10, and 14 are designated as accessible sites, catering to campers with disabilities. Additionally, the Port-a-Johns are handicap accessible.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, with some being notably large. For example, campsite 8 is described by a user as "MASSIVE" with space for 4-6 tents.

PrivacyPrivacy levels at campsites vary, with some sites offering greater seclusion than others. Campsites deeper into the forest (e.g., sites 8 and 9) are noted for having thick brush providing privacy. However, waterfront campsites are closer to roads and less private.

Total Campsites17 campsites

Recommended SitesCampsite 8 is noted for being massive, with thick brush providing privacy. Campsites 7, 8, and 9 are preferred for their secluded nature.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Campers at Stoney Pond State Forest can engage in a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, kayaking, and enjoying the natural scenery. Winter activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also popular.

HikingThe campground features numerous hiking trails covering 1,500 acres. These trails are open for hiking during the summer and are groomed for skiing and snowshoeing in winter. According to one visitor, "lots of trails for hiking in the summer that are groomed for skiing and snowshoeing in the winter."

FishingFishing is a popular activity at the pond. While specific fish species are not mentioned, users have remarked on the peaceful experience of fishing here. However, the use of gas-powered motors on boats is prohibited.

BoatingBoating is allowed but limited to non-motorized boats. Overnight mooring or beaching of boats is prohibited. One user mentions, "This is a good place to fish and/or kayak."

Wildlife viewingCampers have reported enjoying the natural wildlife. However, specific species commonly seen are not detailed.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential for poison ivy at campsites; glass and nails littered at some sites per reviews.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyFires allowed only in designated fire rings using dead and downed wood from the forest. Transporting firewood over 50 miles requires certification.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency Numbers: 911 or Forest Ranger Dispatch 518-408-5850.

Trash & RecyclingThe campground operates under a carry-in, carry-out policy. Campers are required to take their trash with them upon leaving. No recycling facilities are indicated.

Water FeaturesAccessible pond for fishing and kayaking. Gas-powered boats not allowed.

Camp HostRanger station contact number provided. Ranger is described as approachable in user reviews.

Weather at Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area

Reviews

3.9

25 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground draws attention for its serene, quiet atmosphere, wide range of outdoor activities, and the fact that it is free with a permit. However, issues like lack of enforcement of permit rules and occasional noise disturbances are noted. Visitors appreciate the rustic and natural environment but wish for better maintenance and stricter rules.

Review Summaries

Based on 25 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praise the peaceful setting, extensive trails, free camping with a permit, and opportunities for fishing and kayaking. One user states, "The greatest place on earth. Love it. It's a nice quiet...

Based on 25 reviews

Common Concerns

Concerns raised include sites being occupied by unpermitted users, lack of enforcement of rules, occasional trash left by campers, and no staff presence to address issues. A reviewer noted, "Permit...

Based on 25 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers suggest bringing your own firewood and drinking water as these are not available. Selecting campsites deeper in the woods (e.g., 8 or 9) for better privacy is recommended. Another user...

Based on 25 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is popular in the fall and winter for its hiking trails and cross-country skiing. Summer sees a higher influx of visitors, leading to occasional noise disturbances. Spring reviews are...

Based on 25 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Lovely little campground with a dozen well-separated spots." 2. "Campsite 8 was MASSIVE. Thick brush between the campsites there." 3. "This is a NYS DEC managed primitive camping and day-use...

Based on 25 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite 8 is described as massive and very private, while campsite 9 is also noted for its privacy. Campsites 16 and 17 are better suited for tent use. "If your site is either #16 or #17, remember...

Based on 25 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible sites (3, 10, 14) are well-received, though no specific feedback is provided on their usability by people with disabilities.

Based on 25 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is pet-friendly, with multiple users noting that their dogs were able to roam around safely.

Based on 25 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026

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