Glamping near Delphi Falls, New York provides access to the scenic glacial landscape of Central New York, where glacial lakes formed during the last ice age offer unique camping and recreational opportunities. The area sits at elevations between 400-1,200 feet, creating varied terrain that transitions between forested hills and open valleys. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with higher humidity levels making water activities particularly appealing.
What to do
Kayaking and boating on glacial lakes: At Green Lakes State Park Campground, boaters can explore uniquely colored waters with boat rentals right at the park. "You can rent a kayak and enjoy the beautiful lake. There are miles of trails to explore," notes Cindy H. from her visit to Green Lakes.
Swimming in clear waters: Delta Lake State Park Campground offers swimming in a developed beach area with lifeguards and modern facilities. According to Sierra K., "Was here with a camper on a lake accessing site. Sites are fairly big but not completely separated. Having the kayaks were great, there's so much to explore, and town is right down the road."
Hiking around lake loops: Bowman Lake State Park Campground features wooded trails around its smaller, more secluded lake. Gerald L. mentions, "We went up for a weekend trip. Tent camping. Site was sufficiently private and tucked away, but water/bathrooms/showers were close enough. Very clean facilities! Really enjoyed the kayaking and beach area."
Fishing in stocked waters: The fishing at Delta Lake State Park Campground offers good opportunities in a reservoir environment. Brian O. explains that "The lake is a flooded area foaming a reservoir stocked with game fish as bass, perch, and pike."
What campers like
Private, shaded campsites: Bowman Lake State Park provides secluded tent sites set in dense forest. Katarina M. shared, "This campsite was beautiful. It was very secluded and in the woods, right next to the lake as well. I enjoyed how spread out this campground is compared to most and the location is beautiful."
Modern bathroom facilities: Taughannock Falls State Park Campground offers updated restrooms with private shower facilities. Barbara S. noted, "The bathrooms are fairly clean and well maintained. For washing dishes there is a sink in each bathroom."
Waterfront sites with views: Delta Lake State Park includes lakefront sites that are particularly valued by visitors. Tris W. shared, "We had a waterfront hookup! So pretty especially in the morning with the sunrise. The road to get in was for the most part well taken care of. It was pretty quiet especially after quiet hours everyone was very respectful."
Family-friendly amenities: Robert H. Treman State Park Campground provides multiple playgrounds and swimming areas. According to Jennifer D., "We stayed a week and absolutely loved it! Great hiking to waterfalls, beautiful campgrounds and a large playground."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most glamping options near Delphi Falls operate from May through October, with peak season in July-August. At Chenango Valley State Park, summer brings more crowds but also more activities. Mary S. observed, "Deer are all over. Watch out for them on the roads. We had four that were feeding behind our site in the morning."
Electric hookup details: Chenango Valley State Park Campground offers varied electrical options across different camping loops. Mary S. notes, "Parking pads in the electric loops (30 amps and 50 amps) have a good amount of gravel."
Water access limitations: Some parks restrict personal watercraft. Sara H. points out about Green Lakes, "You cannot bring your own kayaks you have to rent. Fun hiking area the water is gorgeous."
Shower conditions vary: At Green Lakes State Park, shower quality can be inconsistent. Chelsea B. reports, "As clean as the bathrooms are, the showers still suck. I'll never understand why parks use the misting shower heads... It's best to use the ADA bathrooms because those shower heads are normal and have wands."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Treasure Isle RV Park features play areas close to camping sites. According to Heather R., "Treasure Isle is nice and quite. The sites are a good size with water and electric on each site. There is a nice bathhouse, playground, basketball court, Beach and walking trails."
Swimming with kids: Green Lakes State Park offers a supervised beach with gradual entry. Kenneth S. described his experience: "This park is beautiful and very clean. The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands."
Hiking difficulty levels: Robert H. Treman State Park offers trails suitable for various ages and abilities. Paully B. explains, "Everyone says how great the water falls are. And yes they are. Bit this is truly a great place to camp. From the wilderness sites and nice bath houses to the gicking trails."
Cabin alternatives: When glamping near Delphi Falls, Whispering Woods Campground offers yurt options that work well for families. Arnie T. shared simply, "We camped there a few times, very people friendly place!"
Tips from RVers
Site levelness matters: Robert H. Treman State Park has varied site conditions. Victoria noted, "Beautiful park. Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers."
Electric service options: Green Lakes State Park offers full hookups at specific sites. Sheri S. shared, "This state park campground is one of the few that offer full hook ups. The bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground."
Dump station location: Most campgrounds near Delphi Falls provide dump stations at entry points, not at individual sites. At Green Lakes State Park, campers access centralized sanitation facilities at the park entrance.
RV size considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. Oleńka S. explains about Bowman Lake: "We had a back in site with a fire pit, picnic table, and no hook ups. It was gravel and not super level, but we made it work. There was a potable water spigot a few sites over and a bathroom with showers a short walk away."