Cabins near Newark Valley, New York offer camping experiences in the rolling hills of the Southern Tier region, with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,300 feet. The area sits at the convergence of several watersheds, creating a landscape rich with streams and small lakes. Most cabin facilities in this region operate from May through October, with fall foliage typically peaking in mid-October.
What to do
Swimming in natural settings: Robert H. Treman State Park Campground features a swimming area at the base of a waterfall. According to one camper, "Great water for older kids that can swim. Lots of hiking trails that were along the gorge with water scenic views" and another noted you can "swim in the waterfall area here."
Hiking gorge trails: Watkins Glen State Park Campground offers multiple trail options for seeing the famous gorges. A visitor reports, "The gorge trail is a MUST," while another explains "There are many trails we haven't walked them all yet. Bring your camera for sure lots to see!"
Kayaking and boating: Chenango Valley State Park Campground provides access to a lake ideal for beginning kayakers. A camper describes it as a "perfect lake for kayaking for beginner or seasoned," and mentions "boat rentals" are available.
Cycling through the parks: Several cabin locations offer cycling opportunities on park roads. At Chenango Valley State Park Campground, visitors recommend to "Bring your bikes, the swimming is great" and note there are "miles of trails to hike and roads to bike."
What campers like
Wooded campsites: Many cabins are situated in forested settings with natural shade. At Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, "Our site was shady. Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords."
Clean facilities: Bathhouses with showers receive positive mentions from campers. Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground visitors noted, "Bathhouse is clean. 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."
Lakefront options: Several parks offer cabin accommodations near lakes. At Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground, "The lakeside spots are gorgeous and the private dock is great when you have kids that love to fish," and another camper advised to "Get your reservations in early though weekends for lakeside sites are booked super fast!"
Multi-day activities: The parks near Newark Valley provide enough attractions for extended stays. About Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground, a visitor noted, "Been here in all the seasons, each is beautiful. 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."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty in cabin areas. A visitor to Pine Cradle Lake reported, "If you are looking for a place to disconnect for a few days this is it. There is very very little cell reception and only wifi if you pay for it."
Bathroom facilities vary: While most parks have shower buildings, quality differs between locations. A Buttermilk Falls visitor warned, "The bathroom was not very upkept/updated and kinda dirty," while another campground received praise for "Pretty good restrooms/showers."
Booking windows: Cabins require advance planning, especially for popular times. A Pine Cradle Lake camper advised, "Get your reservations in early though weekends for lakeside sites are booked super fast!"
Accessibility challenges: Some cabin areas have terrain issues. At Pinecreek Campground, visitors noted, "My only complaint is the condition of the roads. They are in dire need of grading and new gravel. Be careful!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play equipment for children. Pinecreek Campground provides "a large playground" though some visitors noted it was "really run down" while others called it "kid friendly" with a "pool well maintained."
Swimming options: Multiple parks feature swimming areas designed for different age groups. At Chenango Valley, there's a "Playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach and new bath house."
Wildlife viewing: Parks offer opportunities to observe local animals. A Chenango Valley visitor reported, "Deer are all over. Watch out for them on the roads. We had four that were feeding behind our site in the morning."
Bike-friendly roads: Many campgrounds allow children to cycle safely. As one Pine Creek visitor noted, "kids get to ride their bikes all over and feel safe."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Not all cabin and RV sites are created equal. At Robert H. Treman State Park Campground, "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers."
Hookup locations: Check utilities placement before booking. At Taughannock Falls, "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords."
Road conditions: Interior roads at some parks present challenges. A visitor to Pinecreek warned, "My only complaint is the condition of the roads. They are in dire need of grading and new gravel. Be careful!"
Off-season considerations: Shoulder seasons offer quieter experiences but reduced services. Campers note that "The swimming area was closed for the season by the time we arrived" at some locations after Labor Day.
