Chenango County is a county located in the U.S. state of New York. As of the 2010 census, the population was 50,477.[1] The county’s name originates from an Oneida word meaning “large bull-thistle.” Its county seat is Norwich.
Chenango County is in the approximate center of the state, west of Albany, north of Binghamton, and southeast of Syracuse. The county is considered to be in the Southern Tier region of New York State.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 899 square miles (2,328.4 km2), of which 894 square miles (2,315.4 km2) is land and 4 square miles (10.4 km2) (0.48%) is water.[2]
The Chenango River, a tributary of the Susquehanna River flows southward through the county.
Balsam Swamp State Forest is a sprawling state forest in Chenango County, spread across the towns of Pharsalia, McDonough, German, and Pitcher. A mixture of native hardwoods and hemlock swamps, one of the key destinations is the dammed-up 152-acre Balsam Pond.
From Norwich, take County Route 10B to where it merges into County Route 10, then as you pass through East Pharsalia, you will climb a hill, bear left onto Balsam Tyler Road. Turn right to say on Balsam Tyler Road. It becomes dirt. Proceed to 340 Balsam Tyler Rd, McDonough, NY 13801. There is a sign to show you where the camping area is.
Free, Primitive Camping at Balsam Pond
Balsam Pond managed by the NYSDEC offers free, first-come, first-served primitive camping.
Balsam Pond Campground: A small, rustic area located right by the pond off Balsam-Tyler Road. It features about 10–15 sites, some suitable for trailers up to 25 feet. Each site typically includes a fire ring and picnic table.
Amenities: There is no running water or electricity. Portable toilets are available seasonally from May 1 to September 30.
Primitive/Dispersed Camping: You are also permitted to set up camp anywhere in the forest as long as you are at least 150 feet away from roads, trails, or water.
Permits: Stays longer than three nights or groups of 10+ people require a permit from a Forest Ranger.
Fishing: A Warm-Water Haven
Balsam Pond is the forest’s main attraction for anglers, known as a productive warm-water fishery. The road is often plowed in the winter for ice fishing, however call the DEC to confirm in any specific winter season.
Species: You’ll find largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, and sunfish. While tiger muskies were stocked in the past, they are now rarely reported.
Accessibility: A well-built, handicapped-accessible fishing pier/viewing platform is available at the pond.
Pro-Tip: The northern and eastern shorelines are lined with stumps, providing excellent cover for bass.
Paddling & Boating
The 152-acre pond is a popular destination for non-motorized and small-motorized water sports.
Launch: Access the water via a shallow gravel/concrete boat launch suitable for small boats, kayaks, and canoes.
Regulations: Due to the pond’s shallow depth, the NYSDEC recommends motors under 25hp or electric trolling motors.
Paddling Experience: For a more secluded experience, there is a dedicated paddle-in campsite away from the main campground area.
Nearby Activities
If you have more time to explore, the area surrounding Balsam Swamp is rich with additional outdoor opportunities:
Five Streams State Forest: Directly adjacent to the south, this forest is largely undeveloped, a good place for hunting, trapping or exploring the back country.
Bowman Lake State Park: A short drive away, this park offers more developed camping facilities and additional hiking trails.
The Finger Lakes Trail: The 575-mile trail passes nearby, with access to many scenic locations.
Long Pond & Papish Pond: Other nearby water bodies popular for fishing and kayaking. Long Pond also offers free primitive camping opportunities.
