Cabins near Endicott, New York range from primitive wooden structures to units with modern amenities, typically available from late spring through early fall. Seasonal access varies by location, with Chenango Valley State Park's cabin areas operating from May 13 to October 9, while Salt Springs State Park in nearby Pennsylvania offers year-round cabin accommodations. Most cabins in the region are situated within established camping areas that provide access to nearby hiking trails, fishing spots, and swimming areas.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Buttermilk Falls State Park, trails lead to scenic falls within a short distance of cabin areas. "The hiking trails are nice! Not too challenging, but very scenic. Walking along the water from the upper and lower entrances is great! If you walk Gorge trail and Rim trail you connect to make a nice loop," notes a visitor.
Wildlife watching: The forested settings around cabins provide opportunities for wildlife observation. "We had four deer that were feeding behind our site in the morning," reports one camper at Chenango Valley State Park, adding "They have so many birds, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits and insects that it was a veritable wonderland."
Swimming and boating: Many cabin rental sites include access to swimming areas or boat launches. "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," explains a visitor about recreational options.
Wine tasting: Many cabins serve as convenient base camps for exploring regional wineries. "Location in the Finger Lakes region makes it a good base camp for winery tours," notes one reviewer of the cabin accommodations, with a "local winery/cafe just down the road for tastings and lunch."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground, cabin guests appreciate the natural buffers. "The tent sites were the most wooded and cozy site we have camped in all year. So much room for tents/hammocks. Trees galore," shares one visitor, describing the secluded feel of the accommodation areas.
Clean facilities: Cabin campers consistently mention the maintenance standards. "The campground is located at the top of some beautiful and scenic driving through farmland in Pennsylvania... Restrooms/showers are immaculate any time of day," notes one camper.
Lake views: Waterfront cabin options rank highly among visitors. "The lakeside spots are gorgeous and the private dock is great when you have kids that love to fish," explains a camper. Another adds, "Lakeside sites are spacious and reasonably priced. The owners are always accessible."
Multi-season options: Cabins provide shelter for off-season trips. "We stayed in late September... There were no other campers bc of the season- and it's mid week. I love this park and it's close to my house so I just wanted to crash there and wake up early to hike," explains a visitor to Salt Springs State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities fill quickly, especially during summer months. "Reservations are necessary," advises a regular visitor, recommending booking "ahead of time in summer" when cabin rentals are in highest demand.
Varied amenities: Basic cabin amenities differ significantly between locations. "The camper cabins are basic with bunks, bring all your own gear. They are fairly new and have electricity but no water or heat," explains a visitor to Salt Springs.
Bathroom access: Distance to restroom facilities varies by cabin location. "A long walk to the restroom," notes one camper at Robert H. Treman State Park, while others mention that select cabins have closer access to bath houses.
Seasonal closures: Water systems at many cabin sites shut down during colder months. "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 were self contained. Which was best since the bath house was closed for the winter," explains a winter cabin visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When selecting cabin rentals with children, consider proximity to play areas. "Playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach and new bath house. They have fishing and boat rentals," explains a grandmother who stayed with her 5-year-old grandson at Chenango Valley.
Kid-friendly water features: Watkins Glen State Park cabins provide access to swimming options. "The entire swimming/boating area just underwent a major renovation. You can rent kayaks and paddle boards and the park is well maintained and monitored by park police, very safe!"
Biking opportunities: Many cabin areas connect to family-friendly cycling routes. "Bring your bikes, the swimming is great," suggests a frequent visitor, while another adds, "Playgrounds and spaces to ride bikes, swim, picnic, and all-around have fun!"
Weather preparations: Families should plan for seasonal conditions when renting cabins. "He even brought a tarp to keep our wood dry during a rainy days," notes one visitor appreciative of staff assistance during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: For visitors bringing RVs to cabin areas for additional sleeping space, road conditions matter. "The roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," cautions one RVer at Pine Crest Campground.
Utility hookups: Many cabin areas also accommodate RVs but with varying levels of service. "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," warns an RV owner who stayed near cabin facilities.
Parking surfaces: Site composition affects cabin access for those with trailers or RVs. "Parking pads in the non-electric section are dirt/grass. Some of the pads are short; this section is geared toward tent campers," explains a visitor with a teardrop trailer, noting the importance of site selection when bringing additional vehicles.
