Camping near Endicott offers diverse options within the rolling hills of New York's Southern Tier region, where elevations range from 850 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The area features a mix of state parks and private campgrounds situated along waterways and within forest settings. Most campgrounds maintain operating seasons from April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Hiking at Chenango Valley State Park: Miles of multi-use trails wind through forests and around two glacial lakes at this state park located 20 minutes from Endicott. Visitors can explore trails suitable for all skill levels. According to one camper at Chenango Valley State Park Campground: "There's 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."
Wildlife watching: Many campgrounds in the area provide excellent opportunities to observe local wildlife. A visitor to Chenango Valley noted: "We had four that were feeding behind our site in the morning." Another camper mentioned: "They have so many birds, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits and insects that it was a veritable wonderland."
Water recreation: Multiple camping locations feature swimming areas, fishing spots, and boating options. At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, a visitor shared: "The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!" While slightly farther from Endicott (about an hour drive), this park offers unique water features not found elsewhere in the region.
Fishing opportunities: Local rivers and lakes provide good fishing conditions. A camper at Hickories Park reported: "The river is very close, some campsites are right on the river." For those willing to travel about 40 minutes north, another visitor noted: "The lake is pretty, the beach and picnic area is well kept."
What campers like
Privacy and space: Many campgrounds offer sites with good separation between neighbors. A visitor to Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground (approximately 45 minutes from Endicott) noted: "It turns out the tent site we had was the most wooded and cozy site we have camped in all year. So much room for tents/hammocks. Trees galore."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area generally maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. At Chenango Valley, a camper stated: "The facilities are clean and tidy. We will definitely stay again." Another visitor mentioned: "Pretty good restrooms/showers."
Friendly atmosphere: Several reviewers commented on the welcoming environment at local campgrounds. A visitor to Pine Valley RV Park & Campground shared: "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."
Lakeside camping options: Multiple locations offer waterfront sites that campers particularly appreciate. A visitor to Pine Cradle Lake commented: "The lakeside spots are gorgeous and the private dock is great when you have kids that love to fish." The park is about a 45-minute drive from Endicott but offers water features not available at closer campgrounds.
What you should know
Site types and selection: Campgrounds offer varying site types for different camping styles. At Chenango Valley, a visitor advised: "We usually prefer sites on the outer part of a loop, and this was no exception. The sites have more trees." The same camper noted: "Parking pads in the non-electric section are dirt/grass. Some of the pads are short; this section is geared toward tent campers."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For Hickories Park Campground, a camper described their experience: "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."
Weather considerations: The region can experience significant weather variations. Prepare for potential rain, especially in spring and fall. One camper shared: "We were just passing through on a rainy night, but this park would be a good place for a multi-night stay."
Wildlife precautions: Visitors should take proper food storage precautions. A camper at Chenango Valley warned: "Beware of raccoons. They are brazen thieves here...and every campground they inhabit. Just don't leave your food out."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. At Greenwood County Park, a visitor observed: "There is always something going on. Also allows for an easy place right off Route I-86 to rest while driving across NY."
Water activities for children: Many locations offer kid-friendly water features. According to a camper at Chenango Valley: "Playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach and new bath house. They have fishing and boat rentals."
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Several campgrounds have good biking areas for children. A visitor to Watkins Glen recommended: "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!"
Kid-focused amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific amenities targeted at families with children. A visitor to Pine Cradle Lake mentioned: "I chose this campground because the photos of the pool/splash pad looked fun... The restrooms were fantastic too, 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."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RVers should check site dimensions before booking. At Chenango Valley, a camper noted: "Parking pads in the electric loops (30 amps and 50 amps) have a good amount of gravel." Another mentioned: "We found a site long enough to easily accommodate our vehicle and teardrop trailer (30 ft total) since we didn't want to detach for a one night stay."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. A visitor to Watkins Glen observed: "We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves."
Hookup availability: RV sites with full hookups are available at several locations. At Belden Hill Campgrounds, a visitor shared: "Pull thru full hookup, level, spacious. Room for pop up canopy and games. Great views of the mts." This campground is approximately 20 minutes from Endicott.
Cell service and connectivity: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. A visitor to Belden Hill noted: "Good at&t service. Fantastic animal preserve zoo nearby which is a must visit. Pretty golf course with full bar and food right across the street."
