Camping cabins near Georgetown, New York provide rustic accommodations within the rolling hills of central New York, approximately 1,100-1,300 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, while summer averages 75-85°F with moderate humidity. Many cabin sites lack water hookups, requiring campers to fill containers at central spigots located throughout campgrounds.
What to do
Kayaking on Owasco Lake: Located near Fillmore Glen State Park Campground, the lake offers calm waters for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. "There's a perfect lake for kayaking for beginner or seasoned," notes a visitor to Chenango Valley State Park.
Hiking gorge trails: Multiple state parks feature well-defined paths alongside waterfalls. "The hiking trails are well maintained," reports one camper about Chenango Valley, while another visitor to Taughannock Falls State Park Campground adds, "The gorge hikes are also moderate and invigorating."
Swimming in natural pools: Several parks maintain swimming areas with lifeguards during summer months. According to a Green Lakes State Park Campground visitor, "The beach is wide and shallow in most areas, in close proximity to the store and snack shop."
Mountain biking: Trail systems accommodate cyclists throughout the region. One camper mentions that at Chenango Valley, there are "multi-use trails for hiking or mountain biking" and another notes there are "miles of trails to hike and roads to bike" at the same location.
What campers like
Private, wooded cabin sites: Campers appreciate the natural setting at most locations. A visitor to Bowman Lake State Park Campground noted, "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."
Clean bathhouses: Many parks maintain well-kept shower facilities. "The bathrooms are fairly clean and well maintained. For washing dishes there is a sink in each bathroom," reports one camper at Taughannock Falls State Park.
Diverse wildlife viewing: The forested environments support various animal species. A Chenango Valley visitor observed, "We had four [deer] that were feeding behind our site in the morning," while another camper mentioned that "They have so many birds, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits and insects that it was a veritable wonderland."
Renovated swimming areas: Several parks have upgraded their waterfront facilities. "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," notes a camper from Chenango Valley.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most cabin facilities close during winter months. "I have camped [CVSP] several times in all sorts of capabilities, tent camping, pop-up and hard sided campers," mentions one Robert H. Treman State Park Campground visitor who adds that park staff "helped me pick [a site] over the phone."
Variable site privacy: Some cabin areas offer more seclusion than others. "The upper part of the campground is pretty private, while the lower end near the entrance/exit is more open," explains a Taughannock Falls camper.
Limited hook-ups: Many cabins lack full utilities. "No hookups but that means people have generators, though the campsites are big and you won't necessarily hear your neighbor running theirs," explains a visitor to Bowman Lake.
Challenging terrain: Some parks feature steep sections. A camper at Buttermilk Falls noted, "The hill you climb to the camp sites is riddled with pot holes," while another mentions "you had to walk through woods to get there in the mud."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks provide play equipment for children. A visitor to Pine Valley RV Park & Campground remarked, "So many things for kids to do. From boating, to giant swimming inflatables, putt putt even a giant slide."
Swimming safety: Most water areas include lifeguards during peak season. "Changing areas are available as well as a splash pad for the little kids," notes a Chenango Valley visitor, while another mentions "Playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach."
Open play areas: Many campgrounds feature fields for recreational activities. At Fillmore Glen, "The sites in the middle section of the campground don't really have designated boundaries... The grassy field is great for kiddos to run-amok and there is a playground at the far end of it so parents can keep an eye on the kids."
Educational opportunities: Parks often provide information about local geology and ecosystems. A Green Lakes visitor mentioned, "The hiking includes an easy 3.1 mile loop with much shade around two glacier formed turquoise lakes," while Chenango Valley includes "Lots of info about the glaciers that formed the lakes you can swim in."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some campgrounds require adjustments for comfortable parking. A visitor at Round Top Retreat found their site was "gravel and not super level, but we made it work," adding "There was a potable water spigot a few sites over and a bathroom with showers a short walk away."
Electrical considerations: Check power options before booking. "Electricity at about 1/3 of the sites" is available at Chenango Valley, while another camper advises, "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords."
Dump station locations: Most parks provide facilities for waste disposal. "There is a dump station and trash dumpsters easily accessible at the entrance," notes a Taughannock Falls visitor.
Site selection strategies: Veterans recommend specific areas within parks. At Chenango Valley, "We usually prefer sites on the outer part of a loop, and this was no exception. The sites have more trees."
