Chenango Valley State Park offers visitors over 12 miles of multi-use trails through diverse terrain shaped by glacial geology. Located just 15 miles north of Vestal, the park sits at an elevation of approximately 830 feet and contains kettle ponds formed by retreating glaciers thousands of years ago. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season, with cooler nights in spring and fall.
What to do
Lake activities at multiple sites: At Chenango Valley State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and fishing at two lakes. "The park has 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," notes Paully B.
Nature observation opportunities: The forested settings around campsites provide excellent wildlife viewing. Dan N. shares that Chenango Valley State Park has "great wildlife (wood ducks & kingfishers). Camp sites are simple and clean, staff helped me pick one over the phone."
Biking and hiking trails: Trails range from easy loops to more challenging terrain. Fred C. mentions, "There are miles of trails to hike and roads to bike" at Chenango Valley State Park. The park's varied landscape makes it suitable for both casual walkers and serious hikers.
Golf course access: The 18-hole golf course at Chenango Valley provides a recreational option for those wanting a break from hiking and swimming. "Think about bringing your clubs for a round of golf," suggests Paully B., highlighting this less common campground amenity.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds offer sites with good separation and natural screening. At Hickories Park Campground, alyssa F. notes, "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. I was able to pull directly into the camp site."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good standards for bathrooms and showers. "The campground is well kept and spacious with several different areas to camp in. The facilities are clean and tidy," reports Eammon C. about his stay at Chenango Valley State Park.
Lake access for fishing: Multiple sites offer fishing opportunities with convenient shoreline access. At Hickories Park, Amber A. appreciates the "quaint NY/PA border town. The park itself is pretty small but it's in a really cute area with a lot of outdoor recreational activities. Lovely but simple views all around and rolling green hills in the distance."
Seasonal amenities: Some campgrounds have newly renovated facilities. Courtney Z. shares about Chenango Valley State Park: "Bring your bikes, the swimming is great and the entire swimming/boating area just underwent a major renovation. You can rent kayaks and paddle boards and the park is well maintained and monitored by park police, very safe!"
What you should know
Weather considerations: Spring and fall can bring cooler temperatures and rain. Mary S. recounts her experience at Chenango Valley State Park: "We were just passing through on a rainy night, but this park would be a good choice for a multi-night stay."
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. At Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground, Amy R. advises: "We booked site 211 which had the little bit of tree coverage and was located right next to the showers/bathrooms/playground with a quick walk to the lake for fishing."
Campsite variations: Electric and non-electric sites have different features and terrain. Mary S. notes about Chenango Valley State Park: "Parking pads in the non-electric section are dirt/grass. Some of the pads are short; this section is geared toward tent campers. Parking pads in the electric loops (30 amps and 50 amps) have a good amount of gravel."
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife can be active around campsites. "Beware of raccoons. They are brazen thieves here...and every campground they inhabit. Just don't leave your food out," warns Mary S., adding, "We had four [deer] that were feeding behind our site in the morning."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds have play areas for children. Mary P. shares about Robert H. Treman State Park Campground: "Playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach and new bath house. They have so many birds, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits and insects that it was a veritable wonderland."
Kid-friendly swimming: Designated swimming areas cater to children of various ages. At Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground, Katye M. explains: "I chose this campground because the photos of the pool/splash pad looked fun. It turns out the tent site we had was the most wooded and cozy site we have camped in all year."
Wildlife education opportunities: Many sites offer chances for children to observe local animals. Mary P. notes at Chenango Valley: "They have so many birds, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits and insects that it was a veritable wonderland."
Biking-friendly loops: Campground roads provide safe areas for children to ride. Kayti D. mentions about Oneida Campground & Lodge: "There are several group options to stay in either tent sites or cabin/lodge sites that are equipped with their own kitchen and shower facilities."
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. At Pine Valley RV Park & Campground, Mark L. notes: "Lakeside sites are spacious and reasonably priced. The owners are always accessible."
Hookup availability: Electric, water, and sewer options vary by campground and site. Mary S. points out at Chenango Valley State Park: "Electricity at about 1/3 of the sites. Pretty good restrooms/showers. Water spigots on the loops and more water at the dump station."
Site surface types: Different campgrounds have varied pad materials affecting setup and comfort. Mary S. explains: "Parking pads in the non-electric section are dirt/grass. Some of the pads are short; this section is geared toward tent campers."
Glamping close to Vestal, New York: For those seeking luxury camping experiences near Vestal, Mommy D. enthusiastically recommends Pine Valley: "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."
