Chenango Valley State Park Campground sits on a glacial landscape offering a mix of hardwood forest and wetland habitats approximately 10 miles north of Johnson City, New York. The park ranges between 900-1,100 feet in elevation with temperatures averaging 80°F in summer months and dropping to 30°F in early spring and late fall. Most campsites feature level terrain with gravel pads of varying lengths across multiple designated camping areas.
What to do
Swimming at beach areas: Chenango Valley's newly renovated waterfront includes a sandy beach with lifeguards on duty from late June through Labor Day. The beach offers changing areas and facilities for younger visitors. According to Fred C., "The beach area is well staffed and clean. Changing areas are available as well as a splash pad for the little kids."
Hiking the glacial terrain: Chenango Valley State Park Campground features several well-marked trails suitable for all skill levels. "Short easy trails. Lots of info about the glaciers that formed the lakes you can swim in. Great wildlife (wood ducks & kingfishers)," notes Dan N. Trails range from flat lakeside loops to more challenging paths through wooded areas.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing areas exist within the park for anglers of all experience levels. Fish species include bass, trout, and various panfish. Mary P. reports, "They have fishing and boat rentals, however the lake is pretty small and a lot of trees still in the water since a flood." Fishing licenses are required for ages 16+ except during Free Fishing Days (last weekend in June).
Mountain biking: Several multi-use trails accommodate mountain bikes through wooded areas and around lake perimeters. "There's is a perfect lake for kayaking for beginner or seasoned, as well as great hiking and mountain biking trails," explains Paully B. Bikes must stay on designated trails only.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Pine Valley RV Park & Campground offers generous camping spots with natural buffers for privacy. Mark L. describes, "Lakeside sites are spacious and reasonably priced. They have hayrides in the summer and swimming in the lake." Sites typically include fire rings, picnic tables, and level parking areas.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain well-kept shower houses and restroom facilities. Regarding Hickories Park Campground, alyssa F. reports, "the campground is well maintained, the porta potty in the tent area was very clean, i felt very safe." Many facilities are cleaned multiple times daily during peak season.
Wildlife viewing: The natural settings around Johnson City provide opportunities to observe diverse wildlife. Campers regularly report seeing deer, various bird species, and small mammals. According to Mary S., "We had four [deer] that were feeding behind our site in the morning." Early morning and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing times.
Quiet atmosphere: Several campgrounds maintain strict quiet hours, typically from 10pm to 7am. "It seems like a nice local campsite even though it is a state park. Very nice location and relaxing," notes Paully B. about Oquaga Creek State Park Campground. Weekdays typically offer more solitude than weekend periods.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping accommodations near Johnson City require advance booking, especially for weekend stays during peak season (June-August). Reservations for state parks can be made up to 9 months in advance. Some sites like Hickories Park operate on a first-come, first-served basis. "It is a first come first serve campground," notes Paully B.
Limited cell service: Several campgrounds in the region have poor cell reception, particularly in more remote locations. "No cell service or wifi which didn't bother me but could some," mentions Cheryl S. about Oquaga Creek State Park. Consider downloading offline maps before arrival.
Weather considerations: The area experiences typical Northeast seasonal weather with occasional heavy rain. Temperatures can vary significantly in spring and fall. "We were just passing through on a rainy night, but this park would be a good choice for a multi-night stay," reports Mary S. Waterproof glamping options provide protection during inclement weather.
Access to supplies: Most glamping sites near Johnson City are within 20-30 minutes of stores and supplies. Robert H. Treman State Park Campground is approximately "20 minutes from the Binghamton/Johnson City area. For us, that means food and craft beer," notes Mary S. Many campgrounds sell basic necessities, firewood, and ice on-site.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. Mary P. notes, "Playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach and new bath house. They have so many birds, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits and insects that it was a veritable wonderland."
Kid-friendly activities: Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground offers organized events for children, especially during holidays and weekends. "This is a gated campground... The campground is located at the top of some beautiful and scenic driving through farmland in Pennsylvania," says Amy R. Activities may include hayrides, crafts, and outdoor games.
Private shower facilities: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly bathroom configurations. Katye M. explains, "The restrooms were fantastic too, the buildings held two complete rooms with a toilet sink and shower in each. It's the only shower camping this year my 4yr old wasn't afraid of because we had the whole room to ourselves."
Bike-friendly terrain: Several campgrounds have safe areas for children to ride bikes away from vehicle traffic. "Bring your bikes, the swimming is great and the entire swimming/boating area just underwent a major renovation," recommends Courtney Z. Most campsites are connected by paved or gravel roads suitable for casual biking.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should check site dimensions carefully when booking. Some campgrounds have limitations on rig size. Mary S. advises, "Parking pads in the electric loops (30 amps and 50 amps) have a good amount of gravel. We usually prefer sites on the outer part of a loop, and this was no exception. The sites have more trees."
Hookup availability: Electric services vary by campground, with Watkins Glen State Park Campground offering both 30 and 50 amp options at select sites. "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," notes Victoria about Robert H. Treman State Park. Water connections are typically shared between sites.
Dump station access: Most established campgrounds provide dump stations, though some have limited hours. Amy R. explains that Pine Cradle Lake "is a gated campground... We are NOT an RV. We own a Napier tent that hooks to our truck so that we can sleep up in the bed." Even non-RVers should be aware of dump station locations to avoid congestion during peak checkout times.
