Camping options near Apalachin span several state parks and private campgrounds across Broome and Tioga counties. The area features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet and experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through August. Winter camping isn't common as temperatures typically drop below freezing from December through March, making May through September the primary camping season.
What to do
Wildlife watching at water's edge: Hickories Park Campground offers excellent river access for wildlife enthusiasts. "The river is very close, some campsites are right on the river," notes Matt G. The campground provides "plenty of space for kids to play" with "green grass" throughout the grounds, according to Kirsten J.
Gorge hiking near Ithaca: Robert H. Treman State Park features numerous waterfalls and hiking trails about 45 minutes from Apalachin. "Don't let the beginning steps fool you, the rim trail can be very strenuous," warns Matt G. Another visitor mentions "endless waterfalls, hiking trails, fishing holes and bird watching opportunities" throughout the park.
Swimming at natural pools: Several state parks offer unique swimming opportunities. At Robert H. Treman, "you can swim in the waterfall area," though it "can be VERY busy in the summer time." Taughannock Falls State Park offers a swimming area that "goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of," according to Barbara S.
What campers like
Spacious lakeside campsites: Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground features premium waterfront sites about 30 minutes from Apalachin. "The lakeside spots are gorgeous and the private dock is great when you have kids that love to fish," writes one camper. Another visitor notes the campground is "gated" with "water and electric" available at most sites.
Well-maintained facilities: Pine Valley RV Park & Campground receives consistent praise for cleanliness and upkeep. One visitor notes it has "so many things for kids to do. From boating, to giant swimming inflatables, putt putt even a giant slide. All part of the price of the campground." Mark L. describes it as "a family oriented relaxing campground" with "hayrides in the summer and swimming in the lake."
Yurt camping comfort: For those interested in yurt camping near Apalachin, New York, Oasis in the Woods by the Family Tree provides a distinctive experience. A visitor noted appreciation for "everything they do to make sure you experience the wildlife to the fullest, including binoculars and a journal that you can see what other campers saw by the river!"
What you should know
First-come-first-served options: Some campgrounds don't accept reservations. At Hickories Park, one camper reports: "I pulled in at about 6pm mid week, the ranger station was closed. Drove around & found tent site 79 open, it's next to the river." The reviewer adds it "is a very quiet place" where "many folks here are retired, taking their RVs and staying for a little while at a time."
Highway noise considerations: When selecting a campsite, be aware of potential road noise at certain locations. One camper at Hickories Park mentions "the close proximity of the noisy highway" being "the only drawback to this campground," though it remains "great for a one night stay or longer if you're accustom to the noise."
Cell service limitations: Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground has minimal connectivity. "There is very very little cell reception and only wifi if you pay for it," notes Tracey. Some campers appreciate this feature: "We had to put our phones and devices down and just relax."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated children's areas: Chenango Valley State Park Campground offers "a shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach and new bath house," according to Mary P. The park also features "a splash pad for the little kids" and "miles of trails to hike and roads to bike," notes Fred C.
Consider tent site locations: At Pine Cradle Lake, the tent sites are "located in the back of the campground behind the sports field within the trees." One camper described these as "the most wooded and cozy site we have camped in all year. So much room for tents/hammocks. Trees galore."
Book early for premium spots: Waterfront sites fill quickly at popular campgrounds. "Get your reservations in early though weekends for lakeside sites are booked super fast!" advises a Pine Cradle Lake camper. Similarly, Kayti D. mentions Chenango Valley has "lots of sites that were separated from each other by small patches of words, which made it more private."
Tips from RVers
Check hookup locations: At Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, RVers should "check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords," advises a recent visitor. Despite this consideration, the campground is described as "nice" with "everything you need."
Consider site terrain: Some campgrounds have challenging sites for larger rigs. At Robert H. Treman State Park, one RVer reports that "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers." Sites at Hickories Park, however, are described as having "plenty of space for your RV."
