Public Campground
12 Mile (Horsey Hilton) Camping Area
Gaines, New York
camping area, 4 numbered site, mostly ATV users now
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Cherry Ridge Camping Area
Primitive campsites. Camping at designated sites only, except in the Moscow Hill Assembly where there is room for RVs and trailers. Picnic tables and fire pits. Cherry Ridge has potable water. Campsites first-come, first-served basis.
Cherry Ridge Camping Area offers a wonderful escape into nature for RV travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in upstate New York. Nestled in a scenic region known for its natural beauty, this public campground provides an ideal base for exploring the diverse attractions and outdoor activities that make New York's countryside so appealing to visitors.
The campground itself sits in an area rich with natural charm, surrounded by the forests and landscapes that define upstate New York's character. Whether you're looking to unwind after days of travel or use the location as a launching point for adventure, Cherry Ridge provides a welcoming atmosphere where RV campers can settle in and relax. The camping experience here appeals to a wide range of travelers—from families seeking quality time together to outdoor enthusiasts wanting to explore the region's natural attractions, and couples looking for a peaceful getaway destination.
The surrounding area offers plenty to discover during your stay. New York's upstate region is known for its beautiful state parks, hiking trails, and scenic drives that showcase the region's natural landscapes. Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy different experiences, from spring wildflowers and summer hiking to stunning fall foliage that draws photographers and nature lovers from across the country. The region also features charming small towns and local attractions that give visitors insight into the area's culture and history.
For those interested in outdoor recreation, the general area surrounding Cherry Ridge provides ample opportunities to explore. Nature enthusiasts will find trails for hiking, opportunities for enjoying the outdoors, and chances to experience the peaceful rhythm of upstate living. The campground's location makes it convenient for day trips to explore different parts of the region while having a comfortable home base to return to each evening.
Cherry Ridge Camping Area's strong rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from numerous reviews reflects the positive experiences visitors have had here. Campers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the location's appeal as a place to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature. Whether this is your first RV camping experience or you're a seasoned traveler, Cherry Ridge offers a quality camping experience in a scenic New York setting.
The campground itself sits in an area rich with natural charm, surrounded by the forests and landscapes that define upstate New York's character. Whether you're looking to unwind after days of travel or use the location as a launching point for adventure, Cherry Ridge provides a welcoming atmosphere where RV campers can settle in and relax. The camping experience here appeals to a wide range of travelers—from families seeking quality time together to outdoor enthusiasts wanting to explore the region's natural attractions, and couples looking for a peaceful getaway destination.
The surrounding area offers plenty to discover during your stay. New York's upstate region is known for its beautiful state parks, hiking trails, and scenic drives that showcase the region's natural landscapes. Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy different experiences, from spring wildflowers and summer hiking to stunning fall foliage that draws photographers and nature lovers from across the country. The region also features charming small towns and local attractions that give visitors insight into the area's culture and history.
For those interested in outdoor recreation, the general area surrounding Cherry Ridge provides ample opportunities to explore. Nature enthusiasts will find trails for hiking, opportunities for enjoying the outdoors, and chances to experience the peaceful rhythm of upstate living. The campground's location makes it convenient for day trips to explore different parts of the region while having a comfortable home base to return to each evening.
Cherry Ridge Camping Area's strong rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from numerous reviews reflects the positive experiences visitors have had here. Campers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the location's appeal as a place to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature. Whether this is your first RV camping experience or you're a seasoned traveler, Cherry Ridge offers a quality camping experience in a scenic New York setting.
4.7
Rating
44
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Richfields Spring is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
New York weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Richfields Spring.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Richfields Spring. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Cherry Ridge Camping Area Reviews
Sign in to Review
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Richard Goyette
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Richard Goyette
This was our second free camping site in New York and it didn't fail to uphold the gold standard for free campgrounds here. There are nine good sites here with 2 well maintained potro potties. As an end to our trip the weather decided not to hold out anymore and it rained again. We were able to get the tent setup between the downpours but the fire had to be started in the dark. With rivers running... This was our second free camping site in New York and it didn't fail to uphold the gold standard for free campgrounds here. There are nine good sites here with 2 well maintained potro potties. As an end to our trip the weather decided not to hold out anymore and it rained again. We were able to get the tent setup between the downpours but the fire had to be started in the dark. With rivers running through our campsite we set out to enjoy our last night, the weather would not get us down! The temperature also decided to drop from lows in the 60s to a low of 34 that night. Once we had the fire going and made dinner, we enjoyed ourselves by listening to music and singing and dancing by the fire. Nature enjoyed our revelry and the clouds parted and we had a beautiful view of the moon and the stars. We have some experience with camping in the cold and were well prepared with blankets and sleeping bags which had us nice and warm all night. In the morning we slowly packed up discussing the next time we could try this camping ground.
G
Richard Goyette
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Richard Goyette
This was our second free camping site in New York and it didn't fail to uphold the gold standard for free campgrounds here. There are nine good sites here with 2 well maintained potro potties. As an end to our trip the weather decided not to hold out anymore and it rained again. We were able to get the tent setup between the downpours but the fire had to be started in the dark. With rivers running... This was our second free camping site in New York and it didn't fail to uphold the gold standard for free campgrounds here. There are nine good sites here with 2 well maintained potro potties. As an end to our trip the weather decided not to hold out anymore and it rained again. We were able to get the tent setup between the downpours but the fire had to be started in the dark. With rivers running through our campsite we set out to enjoy our last night, the weather would not get us down! The temperature also decided to drop from lows in the 60s to a low of 34 that night. Once we had the fire going and made dinner, we enjoyed ourselves by listening to music and singing and dancing by the fire. Nature enjoyed our revelry and the clouds parted and we had a beautiful view of the moon and the stars. We have some experience with camping in the cold and were well prepared with blankets and sleeping bags which had us nice and warm all night. In the morning we slowly packed up discussing the next time we could try this camping ground.
G
Dan
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Dan
Perfect place for a weekend getaway. Just show up, sign the registry, pick your site and set up your tent or camper. The only downside is that the well at the entrance to the camping area seemed to have run dry.
G
Dan
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Dan
Perfect place for a weekend getaway. Just show up, sign the registry, pick your site and set up your tent or camper. The only downside is that the well at the entrance to the camping area seemed to have run dry.
G
John Parry Jr
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by John Parry Jr
Went camping by here with my 3 year old daughter for 2 nights. Amazing little campsite for free with probably the cleanest Porta potties I’ve ever used. Nice wheel well as well. Lots of horse trails and one that led to a beautiful pond in the woods with picnic tables. The 1st night my daughter and I woke up to some young adults who decided to park at the entrance at 11pm and blast music while dr... Went camping by here with my 3 year old daughter for 2 nights. Amazing little campsite for free with probably the cleanest Porta potties I’ve ever used. Nice wheel well as well. Lots of horse trails and one that led to a beautiful pond in the woods with picnic tables. The 1st night my daughter and I woke up to some young adults who decided to park at the entrance at 11pm and blast music while drinking. They left about an hour later. Other than that it was a perfect camp and I will be back.
G
John Parry Jr
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by John Parry Jr
Went camping by here with my 3 year old daughter for 2 nights. Amazing little campsite for free with probably the cleanest Porta potties I’ve ever used. Nice wheel well as well. Lots of horse trails and one that led to a beautiful pond in the woods with picnic tables. The 1st night my daughter and I woke up to some young adults who decided to park at the entrance at 11pm and blast music while dr... Went camping by here with my 3 year old daughter for 2 nights. Amazing little campsite for free with probably the cleanest Porta potties I’ve ever used. Nice wheel well as well. Lots of horse trails and one that led to a beautiful pond in the woods with picnic tables. The 1st night my daughter and I woke up to some young adults who decided to park at the entrance at 11pm and blast music while drinking. They left about an hour later. Other than that it was a perfect camp and I will be back.
G
John Parry Jr
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by John Parry Jr
Went camping by here with my 3 year old daughter for 2 nights. Amazing little campsite for free with probably the cleanest Porta potties I’ve ever used. Nice wheel well as well. Lots of horse trails and one that led to a beautiful pond in the woods with picnic tables. The 1st night my daughter and I woke up to some young adults who decided to park at the entrance at 11pm and blast music while dr... Went camping by here with my 3 year old daughter for 2 nights. Amazing little campsite for free with probably the cleanest Porta potties I’ve ever used. Nice wheel well as well. Lots of horse trails and one that led to a beautiful pond in the woods with picnic tables. The 1st night my daughter and I woke up to some young adults who decided to park at the entrance at 11pm and blast music while drinking. They left about an hour later. Other than that it was a perfect camp and I will be back.
G
Cassandra Creasy
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Cassandra Creasy
Nice campground. Had clean facilities. Only downside was had some inconsiderate neighbor's that were up all night playing music and carrying on.
G
Cassandra Creasy
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Cassandra Creasy
Nice campground. Had clean facilities. Only downside was had some inconsiderate neighbor's that were up all night playing music and carrying on.
G
Cassandra Creasy
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Cassandra Creasy
Nice campground. Had clean facilities. Only downside was had some inconsiderate neighbor's that were up all night playing music and carrying on.
G
dustin Amrhein
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by dustin Amrhein
Great place to camp. Real clean! Definitely going back.
G
dustin Amrhein
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by dustin Amrhein
Great place to camp. Real clean! Definitely going back.
G
dustin Amrhein
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by dustin Amrhein
Great place to camp. Real clean! Definitely going back.
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Nearby Parks
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KOA Cooperstown
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