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.

Been thinking about some of the bicycle trips I want to take in Madison County 🚲

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  • Charles Baker State Forest – Forest Roads mostly, riding around the various landmarks in the forest along the truck trails. Maybe camp at the Elmer Spring Campsite. Also kayak at the Nine Mile Swamp and maybe ride some of the Chenango Canal Trail.
  • Stoney Pond State Forest – While many of ski trails might be mountain bikable and I’m less likely to do them in favor of smoother rail trails like the Link Trail from Cazenovia to Freber Road, and some of the dirt roads in Tioughnioga Wildlife Management Area. And then the Chenango Canal Trail. Maybe ride around the roads up in Fenner through the Fenner Wind Farm to get a better look at the turbines from the public roads then you can when you are riding.
  • Old Erie Canal Trailway – Areas from Fayetteville to Chittenango to Canastota are stone dust trails and would be excellent riding. I could camp at Stoney Pond State Forest again, though it’s a bit of a trip north.
  • Alfred E Woodford State Forest – Janis Road, White Street, and potentially the mountain bike trail up to Tassell Hill with due care could be excellent riding. It is a blue diamond trail (moderate) but on dangerous sections that are rough, I could dismount and walk the bike and carry it over any jumps.