The Apalachin region sits along the Susquehanna River Valley with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet above sea level, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions throughout the year. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during day hours, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures that many campers prefer. Winter camping options remain limited to year-round facilities like Greenwood County Park, where primitive sites can be accessed even during colder months.
What to do
Nature photography opportunities: At Chenango Valley State Park Campground, wildlife viewing includes resident bald eagles and abundant deer. "We had four that were feeding behind our site in the morning," notes Mary S., who also mentions the park brochure warns of occasional bears in the area.
Water recreation: Several campgrounds offer lake access for non-motorized boating. "The lake is pretty, the beach and picnic area is well kept," reports Janet R. about Greenwood County Park. Many campers appreciate the lake for kayaking opportunities, especially for beginners, with rentals available at several locations.
Seasonal swimming: Natural swimming areas provide relief during summer months. At Robert H. Treman State Park Campground, the waterfall swimming pool gets "very cold, but great on a hot day," according to one camper. Most swimming areas operate with lifeguards from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with specific hours posted at park offices.
What campers like
Quiet riverfront sites: At Hickories Park Campground, tent sites near the water offer peaceful alternatives to busier areas. "I pulled in at about 6pm mid week... found tent site 79 open, it's next to the river," shares Alyssa F., adding that "the campground is well maintained... i felt very safe."
Family-friendly layouts: Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground receives praise for its spacious sites and recreation options. Katye M. notes, "The tent sites were right behind the athletic field where they did activities the weekend we were there (bounce house). The restrooms were fantastic too."
Clean facilities: Shower houses and restrooms at most campgrounds receive positive reviews. Pine Cradle Lake maintains "immaculate" bathrooms according to Cheryl W., while Chenango Valley offers "pretty good restrooms/showers" with water spigots on the loops and more water at the dump station.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell reception varies significantly throughout the region. Amy R. notes that at Pine Cradle Lake, "There is very very little cell reception and only wifi if you pay for it," adding that this forces campers to "put our phones and devices down and just relax."
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds have sources of noise to consider when selecting sites. At Salt Springs State Park Campground, "there isn't a ranger on site at night so a camper said the meadow campground can get a little noisy some nights," reports Janet R., though "the hike in sites are relatively quiet and secluded."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences rapid weather changes, particularly in spring and fall. One camper at Robert H. Treman Park reported, "Went in the fall, very quiet, and peaceful. Woke to snow on the tent." Temperatures can drop significantly overnight even during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Chenango Valley State Park, "Playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach and new bath house," notes Mary P., who brought her 5-year-old grandson.
Kid-friendly bathrooms: Aspen Family Campground offers family-friendly facilities despite their rustic nature. "The bathroom and shower house are very rustic which i loved," shares Kat V., adding that "the kids had a great time" and "the pond is beautiful."
Water features: Kids particularly enjoy the swimming opportunities throughout the region. At Pine Cradle Lake, the "heated swimming pool and the splash pad for kiddies is spotless," according to Cheryl W., while Pine Valley RV Park offers "giant swimming inflatables" that are "part of the price of the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many RV sites in the region have specific limitations or advantages. Mary S. notes that at Chenango Valley State Park, "Parking pads in the electric loops (30 amps and 50 amps) have a good amount of gravel" while the non-electric section has dirt/grass pads that are sometimes short.
Hookup availability: Water and electric access varies by campground and specific site. The tent sites at Pine Cradle Lake "have water & electric" despite being primitive in other ways, while Hickories Park offers full hookups including electric, water, sewer connections, and a sanitary dump station.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have navigation difficulties for larger rigs. "The roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," reports Laura L. about her experience with a 30-foot motorhome at Watkins Glen State Park Campground.
Ranger
