Cabin camping options near Oxford, New York span across state parks and private campgrounds in the Chenango County region. Located within the rolling hills of central New York at elevations between 900-1,200 feet, this area experiences distinct seasons with warm summers reaching 80°F and cold winters. Fall camping season (September-October) brings vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures that drop to 40°F at night.
What to do
Hiking trails around lakes: Bowman Lake State Park Campground offers multiple trails through densely wooded forests. One camper noted, "We brought our bikes and explored the many hiking and riding trails on the premises. We loved the swimming beach soaking up the sun and cool refreshing water."
Fishing in stocked waters: Bowman Lake State Park Campground maintains a lake regularly stocked with trout. According to a visitor, "As fisherman we loved that the rangers told us that the lake was regularly stocked with trout and other game fish."
Swimming with lifeguard supervision: Chenango Valley State Park Campground features a shallow swimming area ideal for families. A camper shared, "Playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach and new bath house."
Disc golf course: Gilbert Lake State Park offers a dedicated course for disc golf enthusiasts. A regular visitor mentioned, "There's miles of hiking trails including one around the lake. Multiple really nice pavilions, disc golf course and a nice beach with lifeguards for swimming."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Oquaga Creek State Park Campground provides secluded cabin camping. As one reviewer described, "Memorial Day weekend, campground was full but never felt crowded. Sites are large with a good buffer, fire ring & grill."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many cabins offer opportunities to see local wildlife. At Deer Haven Campground and Cabins, a camper reported, "We had a great time and saw deer on our site a few mornings!"
Lake activities and rental equipment: Green Lakes State Park Campground provides boat rentals for exploring its unique lakes. A visitor noted, "Just past the swimming area is boat rentals ($7/hr for row boat rental)."
Clean facilities: Most state parks maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. A camper at Green Lakes mentioned, "The bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground."
What you should know
Site specifications: Campsites vary significantly in size and layout. At Chenango Valley, "Parking pads in the non-electric section are dirt/grass. Some of the pads are short; this section is geared toward tent campers."
Seasonal algae concerns: Some lakes experience water quality issues during summer. At Gilbert Lake, one camper warned, "A major problem at this park is the recent development of a toxic algae problem in the lake. Because of algae blooms during warm weather, swimming and fishing in Gilbert Lake are now prohibited."
Cell service limitations: Deer Haven Campground and Cabins has limited connectivity. A visitor mentioned, "Cell signal is not great in most places except the sites 'on top of the hill'."
Reservation challenges: Some private campgrounds have limited online booking. According to one camper, "It was hard to pre book a site though. You can't do it online, you have to email, and it can take a while to hear back from anyone confirming a reservation."
Tips for camping with families
Look for accessible playgrounds: Chenango Valley State Park has family-focused facilities. One visitor shared, "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!"
Bring bikes for recreation: Pine Crest Campground offers plenty of space for biking. A family noted, "Big flat sites, a huge pond, pavilion with nightly entertainment, a swimming pool, all right in the susquehanna River."
Check for wildlife education programs: State parks often offer ranger-led activities. At Oquaga Creek, a parent observed, "For a two night trip, I was really impressed with how relaxing it was - and we had enough to do to make it active. You can kayak and swim in the lake, and see incredible stars at night. Would recommend bringing your bikes."
Consider cabin camping in shoulder seasons: Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and insects. A family at Gilbert Lake shared, "We absolutely loved camping here! The park is very well maintained. The lake is gorgeous. We almost had the place to ourselves."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven sites at some campgrounds. At Bowman Lake, a camper observed, "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."
Hookup availability varies: Most state parks have limited electric sites. At Chenango Valley, "Electricity at about 1/3 of the sites. Pretty good restrooms/showers. Water spigots on the loops and more water at the dump station."
Road conditions: Unadilla KOA offers more developed facilities but with some limitations. One RVer noted, "A bit off the beaten path for a KOA, but nearly sold out in early October nonetheless. Sites range from typical large rig to dispersed tents next to a creek."
Winter camping options: Some campgrounds near Oxford remain open late in the season. A winter camper at Pine Crest reported, "We camped in late November. A few campers. Quiet and we were able to camp on the river. Very nice owners and he brought us firewood."
