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Best Campgrounds near Cortland, NY

569 Reviews

Camping around Cortland, New York ranges from family campgrounds to state parks with natural attractions. Sned Acres Campground draws families with its playgrounds and planned activities throughout the season. Not far away in Ithaca, Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground sits near beautiful waterfalls and has good hiking trails that look especially nice when fall colors appear. Most people can reach these campgrounds easily on paved roads, though at some sites you might need to carry your gear a short distance from where you park. Both places have the basics covered with toilets and drinking water. Sned Acres includes shower facilities, while Buttermilk Falls keeps things more basic. Summer brings the best camping weather to this part of New York, with plenty of daylight and warm days. You can camp during winter too, but you'll need good cold-weather gear. Many campers prefer spring and fall visits when there are fewer people and milder temperatures. Always check ahead about closures, especially during off-seasons. Dogs are welcome at many local campgrounds, including these two popular spots. Since stores can be a drive away from some camping areas, it's smart to bring everything you need. The Cortland area has some really good natural areas worth checking out while you're camping there.

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Best Camping Sites Near Cortland, New York (139)

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Recent Reviews near Cortland, NY

569 Reviews of 139 Cortland Campgrounds

Guide to Cortland

Camping near Cortland, New York, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, fun activities, and family-friendly environments. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Waterfalls: Explore the stunning trails at Watkins Glen State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The access to Watkins Glen! My site was in Loop D which has a direct hiking trail to the trail along Watkins Glen!"
  • Paddleboarding: Enjoy paddleboarding at nearby Seneca Lake. A visitor shared, "We went paddleboarding. We put in at a boat launch at the very southeastern corner of the lake near Seneca Lake Kayak."
  • Fishing and Swimming: Spend a day fishing or swimming at Keuka Lake State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "The lake is clean and clear, great for fishing, boating, and swimming."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. One review for Green Lakes State Park Campground stated, "The bathrooms are great! Super modern and clean and hot, free showers!"
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the generous spacing between sites. A camper at Chenango Valley State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites were a nice size. We were there on a weeknight and basically had the primitive area to ourselves."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Sampson State Park Campground offer playgrounds and swimming areas. A visitor said, "Place is great for kids. Lots to do with a couple of playgrounds, guarded swimming area, kayak rentals."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during weekends. A camper at Delta Lake State Park Campground noted, "Quiet hours are not enforced. Unfortunately, people were up blaring radios until approximately 3 am."
  • Site Proximity: Many sites are close together, which can affect privacy. A review for Taughannock Falls State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites were also very close to each other and rather shallow, thereby limiting privacy."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A visitor at Robert H. Treman State Park Campground pointed out, "The dumping station is lacking but overall nice park."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A camper at Sampson State Park Campground said, "Nice playgrounds for kids."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep the kids entertained. One family enjoyed the "endless waterfalls" and hiking trails at Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground.
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy. A camper at Watkins Glen / Corning KOA mentioned, "The campground and showers were clean."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Keuka Lake State Park Campground noted, "The sites are all super spacious and private."
  • Bring Extension Cords: Some sites have electric poles far from the pads. A camper at Sampson State Park Campground advised, "The power poles are between sites and are often more than 20’ away."
  • Plan for Water Access: Know where the water fill-up stations are located. A visitor at Chenango Valley State Park Campground mentioned, "The dump station is big and easy access."

Camping around Cortland, NY, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Cortland, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Cortland, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 139 campgrounds and RV parks near Cortland, NY and 15 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Cortland, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cortland, NY is Fillmore Glen State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 15 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cortland, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 free dispersed camping spots near Cortland, NY.

What parks are near Cortland, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Cortland, NY that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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