The camping sites near Cincinnatus, New York sit within the rolling hills of central New York state at elevations ranging from 1,000-1,600 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F, while summer days typically reach the mid-70s to 80s with cool evenings. The area's state forests feature a mix of hardwoods and conifers with numerous small ponds and streams that attract wildlife and provide recreation opportunities.
What to do
Fishing the productive waters: Several ponds throughout the region offer excellent angling opportunities for various fish species. At Long Pond Campground, visitors note the pond "is quite large compared to other area ponds, and there are three accesses for fishing: a regular boat launch with parking lot and dock, a carry-in kayak access near campsite 6, and a handicapped accessible fishing pier near campsite 1." The pond is known to be "very productive for fisherman." Nearby at Pharsalia Y Pond, campers find "deep and clear" water "stocked with brook trout" in an "idyllic setting."
Hiking the trail network: The Finger Lakes Trail passes through much of the region, connecting various camping areas. At Pharsalia Y Pond, you can access "day hikes on the Finger Lakes Trail" or "walk or drive along various state forest roads to several other ponds in the Wildlife Management area for good birdwatching." The trail system offers varied terrain and difficulty levels suitable for most hikers.
Water recreation beyond fishing: Many campgrounds provide multiple water-based activities. At Chenango Valley State Park Campground, there's "a perfect lake for kayaking for beginner or seasoned," plus "swimming in the lake" and boat rentals. One camper noted the "beach area is well staffed and clean. Changing areas are available as well as a splash pad for the little kids."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campsites offer good separation from neighbors. At Bowman Lake State Park Campground, the "campground is a maze of campsites through densely wooded forests so it's pretty private and shady even though it's full no matter what season." Another camper praised how "secluded and in the woods" their site was, "right next to the lake as well."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides chances to observe various animals. One camper at Chenango Valley noted seeing "great wildlife (wood ducks & kingfishers)" while another mentioned "deer are all over. Watch out for them on the roads. We had four that were feeding behind our site in the morning."
Free, rustic sites: For those seeking more primitive experiences, several free campgrounds exist in the state forests. The Ludlow Creek Lean-To Campsite is "a beautiful primitive hike-in campsite alongside Ludlow Creek" located in "a beautiful, unspoiled and seldom visited region of state forest, providing a wilderness type experience fairly close to several nearby villages."
What you should know
Campsite conditions vary widely: Some sites require preparation for primitive conditions. At Long Pond Campground, there is "no water or garbage services at this site" and "most camping spots are ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers." Another camper observed the "campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
Bathroom facilities are limited: Even established campgrounds may have minimal facilities. As one Chenango Valley camper noted, "the bathhouses are maybe the only negative to our whole experience." At Jackson Pond Tent Sites, there are "no potable water, garbage disposal or latrines, so be prepared."
Reservation and permit requirements: Some sites require permits or advance booking. For Jackson Pond, "camping in this DEC Wildlife Management Area is limited, and requires a permit" from the regional DEC office, with campers needing to "allow one week for permit to be processed."
Tips for camping with families
Suitable campgrounds for kids: Some sites are more family-friendly than others. Yellow Lantern Kampground has "tons of activities for kids to do" and is described as "clean and fun activities to keep kids busy." At Chenango Valley, families will find a "shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach and new bath house."
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds have terrain suitable for family bike rides. At Chenango Valley, one visitor recommends to "bring your bikes" as there are "miles of trails to hike and roads to bike." The park's layout makes it easy for children to ride safely within the campground.
Wildlife education: The abundant wildlife provides learning opportunities. One family at Chenango Valley mentioned they "have so many birds, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits and insects that it was a veritable wonderland." This natural setting makes for impromptu nature lessons with children.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations for larger rigs: Most campgrounds in the area have restrictions on RV size. At Long Pond Campground, sites are described as "ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers." One camper specified that their site was "level and long enough for a very small trailer" but noted challenges with solar power due to tree coverage.
Electric hookup availability: Only certain campgrounds offer electrical connections. Bowman Lake has "no hookups but that means people have generators, though the campsites are big and you won't necessarily hear your neighbor running theirs." At Chenango Valley, "electricity at about 1/3 of the sites" is available.
Weather contingencies: The area's variable weather can impact RV camping. One Bowman Lake camper shared that "our entire campsite was flooded so we just set up our tent on my brothers site with them" after heavy rain. RVers should have backup plans for inclement weather conditions, especially in spring and fall.
