Hickories Park Campground sits at the confluence of the Susquehanna River and Owego Creek in New York's Southern Tier region, approximately 820 feet above sea level. The campground serves as a convenient base for exploring the rolling hills and waterways of Tioga County, with most sites situated on relatively flat terrain near the riverbank. Winter temperatures typically drop into the teens, limiting the camping season to April through October when temperatures range from 50-85°F.
What to do
Fishing access: Hickories Park offers excellent riverfront spots for anglers targeting bass and trout. "The river is very close, some campsites are right on the river," notes Matt G. at Hickories Park Campground. Visitors can launch small watercraft for additional fishing opportunities.
Hiking trails: Chenango Valley State Park provides miles of well-maintained trails circling two glacial lakes. "There are miles of trails to hike and roads to bike," reports Fred C. at Chenango Valley State Park Campground. The trails accommodate all skill levels and are particularly scenic during fall foliage season.
Water recreation: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas with safety measures in place. "Heated swimming pool and the splash pad for kiddies is spotless as well," shares Cheryl W. about Pine Cradle Lake. Boat rentals are available at several locations for paddling excursions on calm waters.
What campers like
Quiet environments: Campers appreciate peaceful settings away from urban noise. "This was a very quiet place, it seemed like many folks here are retired, taking their RVs and staying for a little while at a time," explains Matt G. about Hickories Park. The natural surroundings provide a tranquil atmosphere despite proximity to highways.
Wildlife viewing: The wooded areas around Robert H. Treman State Park Campground support diverse wildlife observation opportunities. "Deer outside the tent, wildflowers through summer, great leaves in fall," describes Justin S. These natural encounters enhance the camping experience without requiring special equipment.
Playground facilities: Families value campgrounds with recreational infrastructure for children. "The park has a playground and many soccer fields," notes Matt G. about Hickories Park. Modern play equipment provides entertainment options between nature activities.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Campground facilities operate on varying schedules throughout the year. "Went in the fall, very quiet and peaceful. Woke to snow on the tent," reports Scott M. at Robert H. Treman State Park Campground. Late season camping requires extra preparation for potential weather changes.
Reservation policies: Most campgrounds near Owego use first-come, first-served systems or require advance booking. "I pulled in at about 6pm mid week, the ranger station was closed. Drove around & found tent site 79 open, it's next to the river," explains Alyssa F. about arriving at Hickories Park without reservations.
Bathroom facilities: Campground bathrooms vary significantly in quality and amenities. "The bathrooms were fantastic too, the buildings held two complete rooms with a toilet sink and shower in each," shares Katye M. about Pine Cradle Lake. Newer facilities tend to offer better privacy and cleanliness.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety measures: When camping with children near water features, verify safety protocols. "Changing areas are available as well as a splash pad for the little kids," notes Courtney Z. at Chenango Valley State Park Campground. "The beach area is well staffed and clean."
Activity planning: Schedule outdoor activities during cooler morning hours to avoid summer heat. "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," explains Jill R. about Hickories Park.
Dog-friendly considerations: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Owego offer specific pet amenities. "The quiet, wooded environment at Aspen Family Campground as particularly relaxing for nervous dogs, with the pond area offering pleasant walks," reports Kat V. "The pond is beautiful, it was quiet and just relaxing. The kids had a great time."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should consider terrain when choosing sites. "Site 54 at Robert H Treman is very large, flat, nonelectric and well shaded with areas of sun," advises a camper. Request specific site numbers when making reservations based on your RV's requirements.
Hookup availability: Check campground utilities before arrival to ensure compatibility. "Nice, pull-through on gravel pad with full-hookups that can take large rigs," describes Cheryl W. at Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground. "Larger pull-through sites don't get a lot of shade, but there are back-in sites for shorter campers in wooded sites."
Road conditions: Access roads within campgrounds may present challenges for larger rigs. "The hill you climb to the camp sites is riddled with pot holes," warns Amy A. about Buttermilk Falls. Consider arrival timing to navigate difficult terrain during daylight hours.
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