Stoney Pond Campground

For New Yorkers seeking a genuine escape into nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, the vast network of state forests and parks offers countless opportunities. Among these hidden gems is Stoney Pond Campground, nestled within the picturesque Stoney Pond State Forest in Erieville, New York. This isn't your typical commercial campground with all the bells and whistles; instead, Stoney Pond offers a more rustic and immersive camping experience, perfect for those who appreciate the tranquility of the wilderness.

The allure of a primitive campground like Stoney Pond lies in its simplicity and direct connection to the natural environment. Here, you'll find designated campsites that encourage a traditional camping style, often without the modern amenities found in larger, more developed parks. This makes it an ideal destination for seasoned campers, backpackers, and anyone looking to unplug and reconnect with the outdoors. It's also a fantastic entry point for those new to primitive camping, offering a taste of true wilderness without being too far off the beaten path.

Stoney Pond State Forest itself spans 1,469 acres, providing a rich habitat for various flora and fauna, including waterfowl like Blue Heron, Canada Geese, and Mallard Ducks. The 44-acre Stoney Pond, a man-made body of water constructed in the late 1950s, serves as a central feature, offering a peaceful setting for quiet water activities. This article will guide you through what makes Stoney Pond Campground a unique and appealing destination for New Yorkers, covering its location, the services and features it provides, and what you need to know before planning your visit.

Stoney Pond Campground is located on Stony Pond Rd, Erieville, NY 13061, USA, deep within Madison County. Erieville is a small community, adding to the remote and peaceful ambiance of the campground. While it feels wonderfully secluded, Stoney Pond is accessible to New Yorkers across the state, with reasonable drive times from major cities.

From the Village of Cazenovia, travelers can head east on NYS Route 20 for about 4 miles to the Village of Nelson. From there, turn south (right) onto County Route 67 (Erieville Road) for approximately 1.5 miles to Old State Road. A left turn onto Old State Road will take you about 3 miles to Jones Road, where you’ll turn south (right) for about 1.5 miles to Stoney Pond Road. Finally, a turn east (left) onto Stoney Pond Road will lead you directly to the camping area.

For those coming from the City of Oneida, travel south on NYS Route 46 for about 14.5 miles to the intersection with NYS Route 20 (Pine Woods). Turn west (right) onto NYS Route 20 for about 6.5 miles (passing through the Village of Morrisville) to Willowvale Road. Turn south (left) onto Willowvale Road for about 0.75 miles to Old State Road. A turn west (right) onto Old State Road for about 0.75 miles will bring you to Jones Road. Finally, turn south (left) onto Jones Road for about 1.5 miles to Stoney Pond Road, then east (left) onto Stoney Pond Road to the campground.

Driving times are estimated to be around 40 minutes from Syracuse, 47 minutes from Utica, 1 hour and 9 minutes from Binghamton, and 1 hour and 11 minutes from Ithaca. It's important to note that the access roads to Stoney Pond, especially in winter, may require a 4-wheel drive vehicle with good tires due to snow and potential unplowed conditions, as indicated by visitor reviews.

Stoney Pond Campground, being a primitive camping area within a State Forest, offers a more minimalistic set of services compared to full-service campgrounds. The focus here is on providing a natural camping experience while ensuring basic necessities are met and environmental integrity is maintained. Key services include:

• Designated Campsites: There are 17 designated campsites available, with 15 suitable for RVs and two accessible only by foot for tent camping. These sites are generally nestled among white pine plantations at the south end of Stoney Pond. Each site comes equipped with a fire ring for campfires.
• Permit System: Between May 1 and September 30, a camping permit is required for all stays. Reservations can be made online through the New York State Parks webpage or via the Reserve America Call Center. Same-day reservations are allowed until 5 PM on the day of arrival, but walk-ins are not permitted. Outside of this period (October 1 – April 30), campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, though a permit is still required for stays of four or more nights or for groups of nine or more people.
• Restroom Facilities: Two commercial Port-a-Johns (outhouses/latrines) are available within the camping area. It’s important to note that there are no showers or running water available at the campground.
• Boat Launch: A hand launch site is available for canoes and kayaks on Stoney Pond. The use of gas-powered motors on the pond is prohibited, preserving its tranquil nature.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed at the campground, provided they have proof of a current rabies vaccination (tag or veterinarian certificate) and are kept leashed within the camping area.
• Picnic Facilities: A day-use area with picnic facilities is located adjacent to the boat launch.
• Parking: Parking is available within the camping area and at the boat launch.

Stoney Pond Campground and the surrounding State Forest offer a variety of features that make it a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts:

• Natural Beauty: The 1,469-acre Stoney Pond State Forest is a blend of hardwood and softwood forests, with trails winding through natural areas and plantations. The 44-acre Stoney Pond itself is a scenic focal point, providing opportunities for quiet reflection and wildlife viewing.
• Paddling: The absence of gas-powered motors on Stoney Pond makes it an ideal spot for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The hand launch provides easy access to the water.
• Hiking and Cross-Country Skiing Trails: The forest boasts a 13-mile Nordic Ski Trail, which is also used for hiking and snowshoeing. These trails wind through diverse terrain, offering opportunities to explore the forest's flora and fauna. Most trails are designed for beginner or intermediate skill levels.
• Fishing: Stoney Pond offers fishing opportunities for species such as Largemouth Bass, Chain Pickerel, Black Crappie, Pumpkinseed Sunfish, Bluegill, and Golden Shiner. It’s known as one of the first lakes in the area to ice-up, making it a good early ice-fishing location (though access can be challenging in deep snow). Fishing is best done from a kayak or canoe due to rooted aquatic vegetation near the shoreline.
• Primitive Camping Experience: For those who prefer a more authentic and less developed camping environment, Stoney Pond provides fire rings at each site and a quiet, natural setting. The dispersed nature of the campsites offers a greater sense of privacy than many commercial campgrounds.
• Wildlife Viewing: The forest is home to various wildlife, including waterfowl and other native species, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.

As a New York State Forest campground, Stoney Pond Campground operates under a different model than privately owned commercial campgrounds. Therefore, it does not typically offer "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional sense, such as discounts or package deals. The pricing for permits and camping is set by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and is generally standardized.

The primary "offer" at Stoney Pond is its affordability and accessibility as a state-managed primitive camping area. The cost of a camping permit is often minimal, making it a highly cost-effective option for outdoor recreation. While specific discounts for military personnel or extended stays, as might be found at private parks, are not advertised for Stoney Pond, its very nature provides an economical way to experience New York's natural beauty.

It is always recommended to check the official New York State Parks or DEC website (often accessible via Reserve America for reservations) for the most current information regarding permit fees, reservation policies, and any updates related to the campground. These official sources will provide the most accurate details on what to expect financially for your stay.

To obtain a camping permit or for further inquiries regarding Stoney Pond Campground and Stoney Pond State Forest, you can use the following contact information:

• Address: Stony Pond Rd, Erieville, NY 13061, USA
• Phone Number for Reservations/Permits: (607) 674-4017 (This number is for the DEC Lands and Forest Office in Sherburne, which manages permits for the area). The Reserve America Call Center can also be reached at 1-800-456-2267 for online reservations.

It's important to reiterate that camping at Stoney Pond requires a permit during the peak season (May 1 – September 30), and reservations should be made in advance, as sites can fill up. Direct communication with the DEC office will ensure you have the most up-to-date information on availability and any specific regulations.

For New Yorkers yearning for an authentic outdoor adventure, Stoney Pond Campground offers a unique and highly suitable destination. Its primary appeal lies in its commitment to providing a primitive camping experience, allowing locals to truly disconnect from their busy lives and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. Unlike highly commercialized campgrounds, Stoney Pond's rustic charm encourages self-reliance and a deeper appreciation for the natural environment, which is precisely what many New Yorkers seek when they head upstate.

The affordability of camping at Stoney Pond, being a state-managed facility, makes it an accessible option for a wide range of budgets. This means more New Yorkers can enjoy the benefits of camping, whether it's for a quick weekend getaway or a longer, more adventurous excursion. The requirement for permits, particularly during peak season, helps manage visitor numbers, preserving the pristine condition of the forest and ensuring a less crowded experience for all.

Furthermore, the diverse activities available within Stoney Pond State Forest cater to various interests. Paddling on the peaceful, motor-free pond offers a serene experience, while the extensive hiking and cross-country skiing trails provide opportunities for active exploration throughout the seasons. Anglers will appreciate the fishing opportunities, and wildlife enthusiasts will find plenty to observe in this vibrant ecosystem. This versatility means Stoney Pond can be a repeated destination, offering different experiences with each visit.

While some past reviews highlight challenges like double-booked sites or unexpected encounters, these issues, particularly concerning permits, emphasize the critical importance of booking through official channels and adhering to state regulations. The beauty of a State Forest campground is its direct management by the DEC, ensuring environmental protection and a focus on public access to natural resources.

Ultimately, Stoney Pond Campground is an ideal spot for New Yorkers because it delivers on the promise of a genuine outdoor escape. It’s a place where the sounds of nature replace urban noise, where campfires under starry skies create lasting memories, and where the simple act of being in the wilderness rejuvenates the spirit. For those looking to explore the natural wonders of their own state, Stoney Pond stands as a testament to New York's incredible outdoor offerings.

Stoney Pond Campground

Stony Pond Rd, Erieville, NY 13061, USA