Apalachin, New York sits at approximately 840 feet elevation in the Southern Tier region where the Susquehanna River winds through rolling hills. The camping season typically runs from April through October with average summer temperatures ranging from 55°F to 80°F. Most campgrounds in this area close between late October and early May due to harsh winter conditions and seasonal maintenance requirements.
What to do
Fishing access: At Hickories Park Campground, river access provides good fishing opportunities. "We enjoyed fishing and kayaking in the lake, the heated pool and splash pad, spacious sites and clean amenities," notes a camper at Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground, highlighting the multiple water activities available.
Nature trails: Several parks offer hiking paths through wooded areas. "There are miles of trails to hike and roads to bike," mentions a reviewer at Chenango Valley State Park Campground, which features trails circling the lakes and through forest habitats.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds provide designated swimming areas during summer months. "The beach area is well staffed and clean. Changing areas are available as well as a splash pad for the little kids," reports a visitor to Chenango Valley State Park Campground, noting the supervised swimming facilities.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer good site separation. "The sites are very large and spread out. Being a newer campground, the trees are small, but that did not take away from the experience," writes a visitor to Finger Lakes RV Resort.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained shower buildings and restrooms receive consistent praise. "The bath house is immaculate and rivals those at Fort Wilderness Resort," noted a camper at Finger Lakes RV Resort, highlighting the exceptional cleanliness.
Quiet atmosphere: Several campgrounds maintain peaceful environments. "Quiet with incredible view. Really nice clean and quiet campground. Incredible views. Staff and residents so helpful and friendly," reports a visitor to Belden Hill Campgrounds.
What you should know
Cell service variations: Mobile reception fluctuates significantly throughout the region. "This is a good place to disconnect for a few days. There is very very little cell reception and only wifi if you pay for it," explains a camper at Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground.
Weather impacts: Summer thunderstorms can affect campground conditions. "Unfortunately we were there after a lot of rain from the hurricane, site was wet but useable, not their fault," notes a visitor to Belden Hill Campgrounds.
Reservation timing: Many popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Get your reservations in early though weekends for lakeside sites are booked super fast!" advises a camper at Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Campgrounds with organized events provide additional entertainment. "They have hayrides in the summer and swimming in the lake. Lakeside sites are spacious and reasonably priced," shares a visitor to Pine Valley RV Park & Campground.
Playground access: Several parks feature dedicated play areas. "This is by far one of the best family oriented campgrounds we've ever been in. The staff, the grounds, the amenities made me wish we were closer. So many things for kids to do. From boating, to giant swimming inflatables, putt putt even a giant slide," describes a camper at Pine Valley RV Park & Campground.
Location considerations: Choose sites based on proximity to amenities. "We booked site #211 which had a little bit of tree coverage and was located right next to the showers/bathrooms/playground with a quick walk to the lake for fishing," explains a Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Look for level, properly-sized spaces for your specific rig. "Easy access off I-88 friendly owner, friendly seasonal people. Pull thru full hookup, level, spacious. Room for pop up canopy and games," reports an RVer with a 38-foot motorhome at Belden Hill Campgrounds.
Hookup availability: RV sites near Apalachin, New York vary in service connections. "We're using 30amps, but they also have 20 and 50amp service to each site. The water pressure is great," notes a visitor to Finger Lakes RV Resort.
Site surface type: Ground conditions affect setup and comfort. "Parking pads in the electric loops (30 amps and 50 amps) have a good amount of gravel," explains a camper at Chenango Valley State Park Campground, providing useful information for motorhome and trailer leveling.
