The Finger Lakes region surrounding Marathon, New York sits at approximately 1,100 feet above sea level, creating a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. Cabin camping in this area offers access to multiple gorges and glacially-formed lakes with unique limestone features. State parks maintain most cabin facilities from May through October, with some parks closing entirely during winter months.
What to do
Hiking the gorges: Robert H. Treman State Park Campground offers trails along dramatic waterfalls and natural stone formations. A camper noted, "There are endless waterfalls, hiking trails, fishing holes and bird watching opportunities. The campground has bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, a playground and a dump station."
Swimming in natural pools: Fillmore Glen State Park Campground features a spring-fed swimming area with lifeguards during summer months. According to one visitor, "Swimming in the lake, golfing, boating, fishing, multi-use trails for hiking or mountain biking. You're only about 20 minutes from the Binghamton/Johnson City area."
Kayaking on glacial lakes: Bowman Lake State Park Campground provides calm waters ideal for beginners. "The lake is small but calm and great for kayaking. There is a little 'beach' there for swimming, but know that it's a soft lake bottom further out," shared one camper.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Watkins Glen State Park Campground offers tree-lined campsites providing natural separation. A visitor mentioned, "The campsites are great and are all tree lined giving you a bit of privacy. As much as you get in campgrounds."
Clean facilities: Many Marathon-area cabin sites maintain well-kept bathhouses. At Taughannock Falls State Park, a camper reported, "Nice camp ground with well-kept bathrooms. Close to hiking trails along the gorge and Cayuga Lake access for swimming and boating."
Family-friendly amenities: Green Lakes State Park Campground provides upgraded bathroom facilities particularly suited for families. "The bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground," wrote one reviewer.
What you should know
Electric availability varies: Cabins with electricity are limited at some locations. One camper at Buttermilk Falls explained, "For purely camping purposes I'm glad I did. The sites are close together which is ok for short stays but I prefer some space."
Winter access limitations: Most cabin camping options near Marathon close after mid-October. A visitor to Taughannock Falls State Park Campground noted, "The park is opened for winter activities such as xcountry skiing and snow mobiling."
Reservation requirements: Peak summer months require advance booking, often 9 months ahead for weekends. "We did our usual reservation-less 'pull up and see what they have open' style of camping, but during the main season, this place is nuts! You'll definitely need to plan ahead," warned a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground locations: Playgrounds are typically separate from cabin areas. A visitor at Green Lakes noted, "Great playgrounds for the kids. Restrooms were ok--not terrible, but could use updates. Good central location for exploring the Finger Lakes."
Swimming safety: Most swimming areas have lifeguards from late June through early September. "The beach area is well staffed and clean. Changing areas are available as well as a splash pad for the little kids," explained a visitor to Chenango Valley State Park.
Child-friendly activities: Some Marathon-area cabin sites offer organized programs for younger visitors. At Pine Valley RV Park & Campground, a family noted, "So many things for kids to do. From boating, to giant swimming inflatables, putt putt even a giant slide. All part of the price of the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many cabin and RV sites require leveling equipment. At Robert Treman State Park, a camper warned, "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers."
Water access points: Water spigots are placed strategically rather than at each site. "There was a potable water spigot a few sites over and a bathroom with showers a short walk away," mentioned a visitor to Bowman Lake State Park.
Dump station locations: Most parks offer single dump stations near entrances rather than at individual sites. A visitor noted, "There is a dump station and trash dumpsters easily accessible at the entrance."
