Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area

About

Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area is a primitive campground nestled within the 1,469-acre Stoney Pond State Forest in the Town of Nelson, Madison County. The 17 designated tent sites are situated around Stoney Pond, offering a rustic camping experience surrounded by hardwood forest. Sites 16 and 17 are walk-in only, accessible via hiking trail. Three sites (#3, #10, and #14) are ADA accessible and held open for people with disabilities until Wednesday noon each week. Camping is free and operates by reservation from May 1 through September 30 via the New York State Parks ReserveAmerica system. During the off-season (October 1 through April 30), camping is first-come, first-served with permits required only for stays of four or more nights or groups of nine or more people. Each site accommodates up to 8 people and 2 vehicles, with some sites able to handle small camping trailers. Amenities are basic: two portable toilets are available from late May through September, and each site has a fire ring where only dead and downed wood from the forest may be burned. There is no potable water, so campers must bring their own. A boat launch provides access to the pond for non-motorized and electric boats only. Swimming and bathing in the pond are prohibited. The surrounding forest features a multi-use trail system popular for hiking in summer and skiing in winter.

Directions

From State Route 20 in Nelson, head south on Erieville Road for approximately 2 miles. Turn left onto Old State Road heading east. In approximately 2.5 miles, head south on Jones Road to the State Forest. The Stony Pond Road Parking Area provides access to the camping area.