Camping spots near Marathon, New York offer access to the Finger Lakes and southern tier landscapes at approximately 1,200 feet elevation. The region features rolling hills with mixed hardwood forests and watershed areas feeding the Tioughnioga River. Most campgrounds open from late April through mid-October, with typical overnight temperatures dropping into the 40s F even during summer months.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access: Country Hills Campground in Marathon provides direct water access for anglers and paddlers. "Me and my husband stayed here to visit a local friend and it wasn't bad it was very private and quiet," reports a visitor to Yellow Lantern Kampground, located 15 miles northwest of Marathon.
Swimming in natural settings: Several parks near Marathon offer swimming opportunities during summer months. At Chenango Valley State Park, "The beach area is well staffed and clean. Changing areas are available as well as a splash pad for the little kids," according to a recent visitor.
Hiking trail options: Multiple trail systems exist within 30 minutes of Marathon. Long Pond Campground offers hiking access near the water. "I am just a few steps away from sitting on the dock and admiring the scenery," notes one camper who appreciated the easy trail access to viewpoints.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: The more remote camping areas provide greater privacy. "Campgrounds are wooded. Pretty basic facilities, nice though. None of the tent sites have exceptional views but you're a short walk from the creek/gorges," explains a visitor to Buttermilk Falls State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The woodland settings support diverse animal populations. "We had four that were feeding behind our site in the morning," reports a camper at Chenango Valley State Park about the deer that frequently visit campsites.
Water recreation variety: Multiple lakes and rivers offer different water experiences. "Friendly helpful staff. Well-run campground. Highlight is the tubing, kayaking and canoeing right on the river that leads to the campground," notes a visitor to Lighthouse Landing Campground, about 19 miles northeast of Marathon.
What you should know
Site maintenance varies significantly: Some campgrounds maintain better facilities than others. "Campgrounds is a maze of campsites through densely wooded forests so it's pretty private and shady even though it's full no matter what season we visited," explains a camper at Bowman Lake State Park.
Weather preparedness essential: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "Went in the fall, very quiet, and peaceful. Woke to snow on the tent," reports a camper at Robert H. Treman State Park, highlighting the need for proper gear even during shoulder seasons.
Differing bathroom quality: Facilities vary between parks. "This place has amazing hiking trails with great waterfalls. Campsite was clean and bathrooms were ok," notes a Robert H. Treman State Park visitor, while others mention older facilities at some locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds specialize in family programming. "Tons of activities for kids to do. I still remember from when I was little kid having a great time and still have gone again as an adult," explains a visitor about Yellow Lantern Kampground.
Playgrounds and safe swimming: Many parks offer designated child play areas. "Campsites are in the woods with picnic tables and fire ring, plenty of shade and a good amount of space between camps. They have so many birds, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits and insects that it was a veritable wonderland. Playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards," describes a visitor to Chenango Valley State Park.
Accessible nature exploration: Several areas offer easier trails for younger hikers. "This was a great campground – very family-friendly. My kids spent a week with my parents there, there were lots of sites that were separated from each other by small patches of words, which made it more private. Playgrounds and spaces to ride bikes, swim, picnic, and all-around have fun!" reports a Chenango Valley visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV sites vary significantly in quality and size. "Site 54 at Robert H Treman is very large, flat, nonelectric and well shaded with areas of sun. A long walk to the restroom," notes one RVer, adding useful context about amenities proximity.
Limited hookup availability: Electric options exist but with restrictions. "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 and a bathroom with showers a short walk away," reports a visitor to Bowman Lake State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Shoulder season camping offers advantages but requires preparation. "This is a great spot for tent camping, so if that's your vibe this place is perfect. We had a lot of tree cover so we didn't even need our air conditioning on during an 85 degree day," explains a Bowman Lake camper who visited with their trailer.
