Madison County, NY 📍

Madison County, situated in central New York State, is home to a population of 73,442 as per the 2010 census. This county is a pivotal part of the Syracuse, NY Metropolitan Statistical Area. Positioned east of Syracuse, slightly north of Binghamton, and west of Albany, Madison County holds the honor of housing the state’s geographic center in Pratts Hollow, within the Town of Eaton. With Oneida Lake and Oneida Creek framing part of its northern border and Chittenango Creek defining the western boundary, Madison County boasts picturesque landscapes.

This page focuses on free camping opportunities on state land within Madison County, extending an invitation for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the region’s diverse offerings, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and various outdoor pursuits.

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No Off-Road Horses in Winter

Andy | April 9, 2011

I am not surprised, because horses can make trails muddy pretty quickly. I don't think Sugar Hill in the Finger Lakes has this limitation.

Saturday April 9, 2011 — Charles Baker State Forest — Charles Baker State Forest 🗺 — Charles Baker State Forest Auto Tour Route 🗺 — Charles Baker State Forest Horse and Truck Trails 🗺— PDF with All Maps 📚

Map: Canadaway Creek Wildlife Management Area

Horse Watering Trough

Andy | April 9, 2011

While barely visible, there is a hose that must tap into a spring coming down the mountain.

Peering Down Into Beaver Creek Valley

Andy | April 9, 2011

The state owns most of the valley, including Beaver Creek below.

Snow Covered Trail

Andy | April 9, 2011

The land around the trail did not have as much snow left on it, because the trail had it's snow well packed down by the weight of snowmobiles riding through here, the whole winter season.

Tall White Pines

Andy | April 9, 2011

A very tall and magnificent series of White Pine Plantation remains along truck trail. Unfortunately, these White Pines will probably eventually be logged or otherwise die, such as from a wind storm. White Pine is an exceptionally softwood, and when they get this big they tend not to last.