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.

🗺️ Maps 🖼️ Photos

Trees on a Spooky Halloween Day

Andy | October 18, 2023

Friday October 31, 2014 — Lake Moraine — Lake Moraine 🗺

Across the Gorge

Andy | October 17, 2023

While many parts of the trailway lack views, there are a few access roads you can see across the Chittenango Gorge.

Saturday November 7, 2020 — Canastota-Cazenovia State Trailway — Canastota Gorge 🗺

Thematic Map: Each dot represents a census block with 100 New Yorkers

Spent many a lunch break fishing here

Andy | October 17, 2023

Always a good place to catch bullheads off the bridge in Nelson Swamp.

Friday October 24, 2014 — Nelson Swamp Unique Area — Nelson Swamp State Unique Area 🗺

SVGZ Graphic: Adirondack Park Land Cover

Some color along the lake

Andy | October 15, 2023

Friday November 6, 2020 — Cazenovia Lake

Fall Afternoon at Stoney Pond State Forest

Andy | October 13, 2023

Fun times back when I was working out in Madison County, with the crisp cool of the air. Great place not too far from where I working, and still a great place to camp, especially off season.

Friday October 17, 2014 — Stoney Pond State Forest — Stoney Pond State Forest 🗺 — Untitled 🗺— PDF with All Maps 📚

Terrain Map: Albany Pine Bush Study Area 1893