Camping opportunities near Killawog, New York span the Chenango River watershed at elevations ranging from 900-1,300 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Most camping areas sit on glacial terrain featuring kettle lakes and mixed hardwood forests dominated by maple, oak, and hemlock trees.
What to do
Kayaking on protected waters: At Chenango Valley State Park Campground, the lake provides beginner-friendly paddling options. "You're only about 20 minutes from the Binghamton/Johnson City area. For us, that means food and craft beer," notes one reviewer who appreciated the park's proximity to amenities while still enjoying nature.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities. "We had four deer that were feeding behind our site in the morning," reports a camper at Chenango Valley State Park. During spring and fall migration seasons, the wetland areas attract various waterfowl species.
Hiking through glacial terrain: The trails at Robert H. Treman State Park Campground offer varying difficulty levels. "Don't let the beginning steps fool you, the rim trail can be very strenuous," warns one visitor. Most trails range from 1-5 miles and connect to the region's waterfalls and gorges.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention appreciation for site spacing. "The campground is wooded. Pretty basic facilities, nice though. None of the tent sites have exceptional views but you're a short walk from the creek/gorges," notes one visitor to Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground.
Affordability for budget travelers: County parks offer economical options. "Price is reasonable compared to other area campgrounds, and you could access several other state forests and parks in the area for hiking," mentions a visitor to Chenango County Cook Park.
Off-grid experiences: For those seeking more solitude, rustic options exist. "For folks planning a group campout or family reunion, this would be a good option. For a solo camper who wants a bit of solitude, there is a better and super-nice option—the hike-in lean-to," explains a Cook Park visitor, describing the park's less-known camping option.
What you should know
Seasonal closures and conditions: Most campgrounds follow similar schedules. "We stayed during our cross-country road trip in September. The swimming area was closed for the season by the time we arrived," reports a visitor to Robert Treman State Park, highlighting the importance of checking seasonal amenities.
Limited connectivity: Many campgrounds have poor cell service. "Site has no water, no garbage service and no phone signal," notes one camper at Long Pond Campground, emphasizing the need to prepare accordingly.
Campsite terrain challenges: Site conditions vary significantly. "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 Chenango Valley visitor, describing the limitations of certain sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with young children, some parks offer better play facilities than others. "Playground and shallow swimming area for children with lifeguards and a sandy beach and new bath house," notes a visitor to Bowman Lake State Park Campground, describing family-friendly amenities.
Water safety considerations: Swimming areas vary in supervision and conditions. "The beach area is well staffed and clean. Changing areas are available as well as a splash pad for the little kids," reports a camper at Chenango Valley, noting the park's family-oriented water facilities.
Wildlife education opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs during summer months. "They have so many birds, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits and insects that it was a veritable wonderland," shares a Chenango Valley visitor who brought their 5-year-old grandson camping.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness issues: Many RV campers mention challenges with uneven sites. "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," explains a Bowman Lake camper who managed despite site limitations.
Length restrictions: Larger rigs face limitations at several campgrounds. "We found a site long enough to easily accommodate our vehicle and teardrop trailer (30 ft total) since we didn't want to detach for a one night stay," shares a Chenango Valley visitor who found the non-electric section workable for smaller trailers.
Hookup availability: Electric options exist but may limit site selection. "Parking pads in the electric loops (30 amps and 50 amps) have a good amount of gravel," notes a Chenango Valley camper, indicating better surface preparation in utility sections compared to primitive sites.
