Campsites near Kirkwood, New York provide access to a mix of forest and water recreation opportunities in the Southern Tier region. The area sits within the Upper Susquehanna River Basin at elevations ranging from 850-1,200 feet, creating varied terrain for both flat and hillside camping. Winter temperatures can drop below 10°F, while summer highs typically reach 80-85°F with moderate humidity levels compared to other parts of the state.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated fishing areas with varied catch. At Forest Lake Campground, campers can fish on a 22-acre lake. "Situated in Windsor NY on a 100+ acres overlooking a 22-acre lake," notes a reviewer who appreciates the lake access.
Hiking trails: Salt Springs State Park features trails through old-growth forest with notable geological features. "The special aspect of this park are the hiking trails through old growth hemlock forest, said to be the largest hemlocks in Pennsylvania," explains a reviewer. "The trout stream also cascades through some waterfalls, and there are gorges with unique geology."
Water recreation: Several campgrounds provide swimming and boating options. At Chenango Valley State Park Campground, "the beach area is well staffed and clean. Changing areas are available as well as a splash pad for the little kids. There are miles of trails to hike and roads to bike."
What campers like
Scenic viewpoints: The elevated terrain provides panoramic views at certain campgrounds. At Belden Hill Campgrounds, "the views for the pull-through weekender sites are to die for. New owners are making some great updates," according to one camper. Another notes the "incredible views" and mentions the "good enough for web surfing on phone" wifi.
Wildlife viewing: The wooded settings support diverse wildlife. At Oasis in the Woods, they "do everything 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!"
Social activities: Many campgrounds offer organized events. At Pine Crest Campground, one visitor enjoyed the "pavilion with nightly entertainment." Forest Lake Campground received praise as "every weekend had a different potluck or wine&cheese pairings, bingo or the monthly cornhole tournaments."
What you should know
Winter camping availability: Unlike many seasonal operations, some campgrounds remain open year-round. At Montrose Campground, they are "open all year with some winter sites available. They have all sites available from tent right up to 50 amp full hook-ups."
Variable water access: Water access differs significantly between campgrounds. Salt Springs State Park requires preparation as "there is no potable water anywhere so bring some," while one reviewer noted that "one site [is] actually adjacent to a good swimming hole."
Security considerations: Staffing levels vary across campgrounds. At Salt Springs State Park, a visitor noted "we had some drama while there, possibly squatters causing trouble all through night. No one to call to control it. Police hours away."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's facilities. Chenango Valley State Park offers "swimming in the lake, golfing, boating, fishing, multi-use trails for hiking or mountain biking," making it "a great campground – very family-friendly" where kids can enjoy "playgrounds and spaces to ride bikes, swim, picnic, and all-around have fun!"
Wildlife education: Wildlife sightings can become educational opportunities. At Chenango Valley State Park, "wildlife" includes "beware of raccoons. They are brazen thieves here...and every campground they inhabit. Just don't leave your food out." The park also has "deer all over. Watch out for them on the roads. We had four that were feeding behind our site in the morning."
Splash features: Water play areas provide relief during hot weather. At Oneida Campground, "there are several group options to stay in either tent sites or cabin/lodge sites that are equipped with their own kitchen and shower facilities. Private remote sites are also available if you prefer to be off on your own in nature."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Different areas within campgrounds offer varied experiences. At Chenango Valley State Park, "parking pads in the non-electric section are dirt/grass. Some of the pads are short; this section is geared toward tent campers," while "parking pads in the electric loops (30 amps and 50 amps) have a good amount of gravel."
Access considerations: Road conditions vary significantly between campgrounds. A camper at Montrose Campground reported, "each campsite had plenty of space to drive up to without being right on top of the other campers" and was "beautifully taken care of."
Winter RV options: Off-season camping requires preparation but offers unique experiences. A winter camper at Pine Crest Campground noted, "We camped in late November. A few campers. Quiet and we were able to camp on the river. Very nice owners and he brought us firewood. We burned morning and night and better than finding random expensive bundles."
