Campsites near Lisle, New York range from primitive tent sites to fully-equipped RV campgrounds throughout Broome and Chenango counties. The region sits at elevations between 900-1500 feet with terrain characterized by rolling hills, mixed hardwood forests, and small glacial lakes. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 50-60°F at night, with higher humidity levels from June through August.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing at local ponds: Long Pond Campground offers excellent water access just 5 miles east of Lisle. "People have driven in to fish and kayak so I don't feel isolated and afraid, and I am just a few steps away from sitting on the dock and admiring the scenery," notes one visitor. The pond is stocked with game fish and has multiple access points.
Swimming in designated areas: Pine Valley RV Park & Campground provides family-friendly water activities during summer months. "From boating, to giant swimming inflatables, putt putt even a giant slide. All part of the price of the campground," mentions one reviewer. The lake has a supervised swimming area with inflatable water features.
Hiking forest trails: Hickories Park Campground offers river access and trail networks. "We brought our bikes and explored the many hiking and riding trails on the premises," reports one visitor. The park maintains several miles of multi-use trails suitable for day hikes of varying difficulty levels.
What campers like
Secluded sites with shade: Bowman Lake State Park Campground features private, wooded campsites. "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," writes one camper. Sites are separated by mature trees providing natural privacy.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "Very clean shower house and grounds. Very quiet with primarily seasonal campers. Good clientele. Great rates," mentions a visitor to Cook Park. Most established campgrounds offer shower facilities that are regularly maintained.
Lake access: Chenango Valley State Park Campground provides water recreation opportunities. "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," notes one camper. The park recently completed renovations to its swimming areas.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the Lisle area operate between May and October. "Stayed with our camper after a family birthday party. Very small camp ground but nice. There was no swimming in the pond allowed though. Beware, very tight sites amount the pines & very sloped," warns a Cook Park visitor about site conditions.
Primitive vs. developed options: Chenango County Cook Park offers both standard camping and a hike-in option. "For a solo camper who wants a bit if solitude, there is a better and super-nice option—the hike-in lean-to! Its a short hike in, and it is lively, well built shelter and nice fire pit," explains one reviewer. Primitive sites typically lack hookups but offer more privacy.
Reservation requirements: Campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. "This is a first come first serve campground," notes a Hickories Park visitor. Some parks require advance bookings while others operate on first-come systems, particularly for tent camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated children's activities: "We had a lot of tree cover so we didn't even need our air conditioning on during an 85 degree day," writes a Bowman Lake visitor describing the comfortable camping environment. Most family-oriented campgrounds offer playgrounds, beaches, and organized activities.
Look for swimming options: Some locations prohibit swimming while others have dedicated areas. "The swimming is excellent, lots of space for everyone, and they have lifeguards on duty just in case," states a visitor about swimming facilities at one park.
Consider noise levels: Belden Hill Campgrounds offers a quieter experience. "Really nice clean and quiet campground. Incredible views. Staff and residents so helpful and friendly," notes one family. Weekday camping typically provides a more peaceful experience than weekend stays.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: "Sites in the electric loops (30 amps and 50 amps) have a good amount of gravel," mentions a Chenango Valley visitor, noting the variation in site surfaces. Many campgrounds have limited spaces for larger rigs.
Prepare for varying hookup options: "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," reports a Bowman Lake camper about managing without full hookups.
Consider seasonal sites: "Very accommodating," notes a Belden Hill visitor about the campground's flexibility. Many RV parks in the region offer seasonal sites for longer-term stays with better amenities and lower monthly rates.
