Brooktondale rests in the glacially carved terrain of the Finger Lakes region at approximately 1,020 feet elevation. The region receives over 37 inches of precipitation annually, creating lush forest conditions for camping sites. State parks in the area typically maintain open camping seasons from mid-April through October, with peak visitor counts in July and August.
What to do
Swimming at waterfall pools: Robert H. Treman State Park offers a unique swimming experience beneath a waterfall. "The swimming area was closed for the season by the time we arrived. I would definitely return," notes one visitor who missed the popular swimming hole at Robert H. Treman State Park Campground.
Trail hiking around lakes: The trail system at Chenango Valley State Park provides hiking options for all skill levels, with routes circling the lakes. "There are miles of trails to hike and roads to bike. The beach area is well staffed and clean," according to a recent camper at Chenango Valley State Park Campground.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the region. One camper at Chenango Valley noted, "Keep your eye peeled for the resident bald eagle," while another mentioned, "We had four deer that were feeding behind our site in the morning."
What campers like
Waterfall access: The region's gorge formations create numerous waterfall viewing opportunities. "Robert Treman is a treat and a gorgeous place to camp in the Ithaca, NY area. There are endless waterfalls, hiking trails, fishing holes and bird watching opportunities," shares a visitor to Robert H. Treman State Park Campground.
Yurt accommodations: For glamping in Brooktondale, New York, yurts provide a comfortable alternative to traditional tenting. "This was a great visit! The owners were amazing and accommodating. We had everything we needed," reports a recent guest at Harpy Hollow.
Clean facilities: Bathhouse quality varies between campgrounds, with recent renovations improving conditions. At Watkins Glen, "Some of the shower houses are better than others. Friendly staff, good patrols at night to keep people from being too noisy," notes one camper at Watkins Glen State Park Campground.
What you should know
Campsite privacy varies: Site selection impacts privacy levels throughout the region. "Campsites are in the woods with picnic tables and fire ring, plenty of shade and a good amount of space between camps," reports a visitor to Chenango Valley State Park.
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds operate on a limited schedule. "The swimming area was closed for the season by the time we arrived," reports a camper who visited Robert H. Treman in September.
Luxury accommodations available: Alternative lodging options include upscale glamping near Brooktondale. At Pinecreek Campground, "Beautiful setting...loved the sunsets, kid friendly, pool well maintained, Catch and Release Pond was lots of fun...the store is big and plentiful!!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer updated play equipment for children. "Great playgrounds for the kids. Good central location for exploring the Finger Lakes," notes a camper about Robert H. Treman State Park.
Swimming options: Water recreation areas vary in depth and supervision. At Hickories Park Campground, "The dog park is a great addition to the park. There is always something going on. Also allows for an easy place right off Route I-86 to rest while driving across NY."
Kid-friendly trails: Select hiking routes based on length and difficulty. "This was a total surprise when we stayed at this site. We thought we were going to go to another park to camp but this one was so nice we ended up staying.. Great water for older kids that can swim. Lots of hiking trails that were along the gorge with water scenic views."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at several campgrounds. "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," advises an RVer about Robert H. Treman State Park.
Hookup availability: Water and electrical connections vary by loop and site number. "Some sites have shared fresh water hookup between the sites," notes a camper who stayed at Watkins Glen State Park Campground.
Road conditions: Interior campground roads may present navigation challenges. "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful. The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves."