Newark Valley, located in New York's Southern Tier region, sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation in the gently rolling hills between the Catskills and the Finger Lakes. The area experiences four distinct seasons with winter temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summer camping conditions typically range from 70-85°F with occasional thunderstorms. Campgrounds near Newark Valley provide access to several waterways including the Susquehanna River system.
What to do
Paddle the Susquehanna River: Hickories Park Campground offers excellent river access for kayakers and canoers. "There is always something going on. Also allows for an easy place right off Route I-86 to rest while driving across MY. Some of the best river access there is to paddle through a great small town," notes Paully B.
Explore hiking trails: The region features numerous wooded paths through hemlock groves and along gorges. "The hiking trails are well maintained. you can also fish in the lake for trout and bass," explains Matt G. about Chenango Valley State Park Campground.
Visit nearby waterfalls: Within a 30-40 minute drive, campers can access multiple waterfall sites. "Everyone says how great the water falls are. And yes they are. Bit this is truly a great place to camp. From the wilderness sites and nice bath houses to the gicking trails," writes Paully B. about Robert H. Treman State Park.
Go boating and fishing: Multiple lakes in the region offer boating opportunities. "There's is a perfect lake for kayaking for beginner or seasoned, as well as great hiking and mountain biking trails. Keep your eye peeled for the resident bald eagle and think about brining your clubs for a round of golf," shares Paully B. about Chenango Valley State Park.
What campers like
Quiet, spacious sites: Greenwood County Park receives praise for its peaceful atmosphere. "This was my first time visiting Greenwood County Park and I was pleasantly surprised. Your camping and recreation options are definitely better in the 'off' season because hardly anyone was here, but the fall colors were absolutely spectacular!" reports Janet R.
Family-friendly amenities: Many parks offer dedicated facilities for children. "This is a beautiful and quiet campground- a hidden gem in Broome County! There are boats available for rent, a waterfront swimming area, great fishing, and lots of trails to hike! Rain or shine, there are places to go and things to see!" writes Kayti D. about Greenwood County Park.
Seasonal beauty: The region showcases different attractions throughout the year. "Green grass perfect space for kids to play. Came in late, got a spot and took care of everything in the morning. Fall is a very pretty time up here," mentions Kirsten J. about Hickories Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local fauna. "The park brochure warns of the occasional bear but that's true even in towns all over NY. I doubt you'll see one. Deer are all over. Watch out for them on the roads. We had four that were feeding behind our site in the morning," says Mary S. about Chenango Valley State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through October, with limited winter accessibility. "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. Reserve ahead of time in summer," advises Harry H. about Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "The only draw back to this campground is the close proximity of the noisy highway but great for a one night stay or longer if you're accustom to the noise," mentions alyssa F. about Hickories Park.
Variable site conditions: Terrain and amenities differ significantly between campgrounds. "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," notes Victoria about Robert H. Treman State Park Campground.
Bathhouse quality: Facilities vary by location and loop. "The bathhouses are clean and well lit at night. This is definitely a large family area. Expect to hear your neighbors once and a while," shares Deb S. about Watkins Glen State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Pine Valley RV Park & Campground offers water recreation specially designed for children. "This is by far one of the best family oriented campgrounds we've ever been in. The staff, the grounds, the amenities made me wish we were closer. So many things for kids to do. From boating, to giant swimming inflatables, putt putt even a giant slide," recommends Mommy D.
Educational opportunities: Several parks feature nature programs and wildlife viewing. "Playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach and new bath house. They have fishing and boat rentals, however the lake is pretty small and a lot of trees still in the water since a flood. They have nice trails for hiking that go all the way around the lake," explains Mary P. about Chenango Valley State Park.
Child-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with open play areas. "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!" shares Kayti D. about Chenango Valley State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Watkins Glen State Park Campground offers various RV accommodations but requires careful navigation. "The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," advises Laura L.
Hookup availability: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Newark Valley offer various utility connections. "This place is an excellent place to take your family it's got hookups and plenty of space for your RV and it also has showers which makes it great for my family members who don't actually like to go camping haha it is just great all-around fun for the family," shares Jill R. about Hickories Park.
Seasonal considerations: Fall camping offers unique advantages for RVers. "We usually prefer sites on the outer part of a loop, and this was no exception. The sites have more trees. Electricity at about 1/3 of the sites. Pretty good restrooms/showers. Water spigots on the loops and more water at the dump station," recommends Mary S. about Chenango Valley State Park.
Legend
