Hunt Pond State Forest
🏆 Official Guide: Hunts Pond State Forest — A primitive camping and fishing destination in New York’s Chenango County — featuring 12 designated campsites around a tranquil pond, non-motorized boating, unmarked hiking trails, and a true backcountry experience managed by the NYS DEC.
Hunts Pond State Forest (formerly Hunts Pond State Park) is a quiet, primitive destination in Chenango County near New Berlin, New York. The forest offers 12 designated campsites around the perimeter of Hunts Pond, plus dispersed backcountry camping throughout the forest. It’s a place for solitude — no motors allowed on the pond, no developed facilities, and no crowds.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Near New Berlin, Chenango County, NY |
| Managed By | NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) |
| Campsites | 12 designated sites around Hunts Pond |
| Permit (May–Sept) | Free permit required — DEC Region 7 (607) 371-7268 |
| Motors | Non-motorized boats only |
| Swimming | Prohibited |
Camping
| Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Designated Sites | 12 primitive sites around Hunts Pond — free permit required May–Sept |
| Dispersed Camping | Permitted throughout forest — 150 ft from roads/trails/water |
| Off-Season (Oct–Apr) | Generally first-come, first-served |
| Groups (9+) | Permit required year-round |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Camping | Primitive — 12 designated + dispersed backcountry |
| Fishing | Hunts Pond — NY State license required |
| Boating | Non-motorized only — kayak/canoe car-top launch |
| Hiking | Unmarked trails and logging lanes |
| Cross-Country Skiing | Winter — trails and forest roads |
| Snowmobiling | Winter — designated areas |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to camp at Hunts Pond?
Yes — from May 1 through September 30, a free permit is required for the 12 designated campsites around Hunts Pond. Contact the NYS DEC Region 7 Sherburne Office at (607) 371-7268 to obtain one. During the off-season, sites are generally first-come, first-served, though permits are still required for groups of 9 or more or stays of 4+ nights.
Can I swim in Hunts Pond?
No — swimming and bathing in Hunts Pond are prohibited to protect water quality. The pond is available for non-motorized boating and fishing only.
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