142 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping options in Whitney Point, New York range from established campgrounds to dispersed sites, with several notable destinations within a short drive. Chenango Valley State Park Campground provides developed facilities for tent camping, RVs, cabins, and glamping accommodations with well-maintained sites across multiple camping loops. Long Pond Campground offers a more rustic dispersed camping experience approximately 15 miles west of Whitney Point, with primitive sites situated along the shoreline. Other nearby options include Greenwood County Park, Cook Park, and Upper Lisle Park, creating a diverse range of camping areas for visitors exploring this region of upstate New York.
Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from May through October, with a few locations like Greenwood County Park remaining open year-round. The camping season at Chenango Valley State Park and several other established sites typically runs from mid-May to early October. Campgrounds offer varying levels of amenities - from primitive sites with minimal facilities to developed areas with electric hookups, showers, and sanitary dump stations. Reservations are recommended at popular locations, especially during summer weekends. As one visitor noted about Long Pond, "Each spot seems to have plenty of shade and access to downed firewood, and it looks like there are fire pits at each site."
Waterfront camping is particularly popular in the Whitney Point area, with several campgrounds offering lake or pond access. Long Pond Campground attracts many anglers, with its dispersed sites positioned along the shoreline. A camper reported that Long Pond is "a short drive in and I was able to score a spot right on the pond next to a dock." Chenango Valley State Park features two lakes (Lily and Kettle) with swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities, plus hiking trails and a golf course. Family-friendly amenities are common at the developed campground options, with Chenango Valley offering "a playground and shallow swimming area for children with lifeguards and a sandy beach." While some campgrounds like Long Pond provide a more secluded experience, they typically have fewer amenities and may have concerns about security and maintenance.
"This is a beautiful park, the hiking is great with varied trails, nice changes in elevation due to the glacial geology of the landscape, and scenic vistas overlooking 2 beautiful lakes."
"The only downfall is that there really isn't much else to do around the area."
from $21 - $123 / night
Check Availability"Typical New York weather. Overall, the park is more than I expected for a county park."
"The lake is pretty, the beach and picnic area is well kept, the campground is like a high quality state park—bravo to the Broome County Parks Department!"
from $30 / night
Check Availability"Aside from that this was a short drive in and I was able to score a spot right on the pond next to a dock."
"All the roads are gravel, so it might get a little muddy after a big rain but I had no issue with a low clearance car driving around to explore the sites available."
"This is a small county park and campground located east of Greene NY. It gets a lot if day use for fishing, hiking and picnicking. There is also a wooded campground, mostly RV’s and some tents."
"It has a small lake that is great for fishing and kayaks but swimming is not allowed. Some sites may be a challenge for the largest of rigs. Has a small play area for kids."
"Fantastic animal preserve zoo nearby which is a must visit. Pretty golf course with full bar and food right across the street. Overall one of our favorite stops on our New England trip."
from $53 - $65 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $35 / night
Check Availability"There is also a trail but we didn't get to check it out. The owners can be seen here and there all over the property keeping it looking beautiful!"
from $34 - $39 / night
Check Availability"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."
"Lovely but simple views all around and rolling green hills in the distance. Campground is well-kept and relatively modern but not particularly memorable. Nice little stopover on a road trip."
"They have hayrides in the summer and swimming in the lake. Lakeside sites are spacious and reasonably priced. The owners are always accessible."
"We had never been to site before so when we booked, we thought we were next to a bathroom. Turns out you had to walk through woods to get there in the mud."
"There was a potable water spigot a few sites over and a bathroom with showers a short walk away. This is a great spot for tent camping, so if that’s your vibe this place is perfect."
from $21 - $65 / night
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TravelerSpent a peaceful night car camping in site 151. Beautiful trees, nice shower houses, quiet neighbors. Just a beautiful and very affordable - $32 - stay. We’ll be back whenever we pass this way.
TravelerStopped for one night while traveling upstate and usually dispersed camping but it was getting late so we stopped in.
ScoutThis clothing-optional campground has a highly toxic, intrusive, and vindictive environment. During my stay, the seasonal permanent residents('perms') subjected me to intense harassment, inappropriate sexual advances, and severe social retaliation/rumor-spreading when those advances were rejected. The situation escalated to the point where an employee had to intervene for my safety. Furthermore, despite management allowing my photo to be taken in costume at a party, I was intentionally blocked from the community group where the photos were posted, leaving me unable to monitor how my image was being used. Avoid this place if you value your privacy, personal boundaries, and safety.
GuideThis was a great camping trip! We had site 29, nice spot with the North Rim trail right behind our site. Trails are beautiful. Restroom and shower close. You do need to be careful, lots of oaks trees and falling acorns! Easily dings you car hood, watch where you park. Close to down town for a visit to the awesome farmers market in Ithaca.
GuideNice small campground with only 9 sites. FF self pay station allows QR Code to recreation.gov to reserve online. Once you choose a site, just pay online and keep your cash tipping at the close by wineries!😉 The park is a bit neglected compared to the many other National Forrest we stay in. The potholes in the driving loop and gravel need repair. The Fire pits and pit toilets need attention. Overall, it has been quiet and convenient to the region around. We stayed 4 days so even the negatives were not a deterrent.
TravelerThis site was awesome. Still semi private and there were bathrooms which weren’t bad at all! Only draw back is you’re kind of close to other campers meaning you can hear them too. If you’re in for a more social dispersed experience this is it! I just prefer to have no one around for miles!
TravelerIn short it was perfect! This is a small family pet friendly campground. There is a pond that you can kayak and c&r fishing, just no swimming, there is snapping turtles! There is some handmade items in the office to purchase, also some camping needs, fire starters and firewood (6 dollars a bundle). There is a bath house, though we didn't use it so I can't tell you anything about it. There is also a trail but we didn't get to check it out. The owners can be seen here and there all over the property keeping it looking beautiful! It is clear just by watching them how much care they put into making this a great time to all that come there. On the weekends they offer meals that can be brought right to your site. We were there from Saturday till Wednesday morning and it was very peaceful. This is definitely be a place we will come back to. The only downfall to the place is that it has placed a high bar for other campgrounds to compare!
GuideReally liked it. Love the layout, with camp sites having mowed paths to the restrooms and showers in the middle of each loop. Nicest showers and rest rooms we have seen so far. Each site has brush between them so you can not see your neighbors. Pretty, quiet, relaxing. The groomed hiking trails are the best and Arctic Lake is beautiful. Staff were so nice, and loved doing the scavenger hunt!
ScoutTerrible service/wifi in spot 1. Numerous open campsites yet we were pushed right next to dump station. And im talking half this campground is empty.
Camping spots near Whitney Point, New York offer diverse terrain throughout Broome and Chenango counties, with elevations ranging from 900-1,300 feet across the region's rolling hills. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with humid summers averaging 80°F and winters dropping below freezing, making May through October the primary camping season. Several smaller lakes and ponds supplement the main Whitney Point Reservoir, creating multiple waterfront camping options.
Fishing opportunities: Hickories Park Campground sits along the Susquehanna River, providing excellent fishing access. "The river is very close, some campsites are right on the river," notes Matt G., making it convenient for anglers to fish directly from their site.
Hiking trails: Multiple walking paths of varying difficulties are available near Whitney Point. At Bowman Lake State Park Campground, a 2.4-mile trail circles the lake, though Gerald L. mentions "the trails were not all that great and provided only minor enjoyment," suggesting it's better for casual walkers than serious hikers.
Winter recreation: While most camping areas close for winter, some parks offer cold-weather activities. Bowman Lake State Park remains accessible for winter sports, as Brian O. learned: "We camped in July, but were told that the park is opened for winter activities such as xcountry skiing and snow mobiling."
Water activities: Beyond fishing, water recreation options include boating and swimming. At Pine Valley RV Park, families find extensive water amenities: "From boating, to giant swimming inflatables, putt putt even a giant slide. All part of the price of the campground," according to Mommy D.
Wooded privacy: Many campers appreciate the seclusion at certain camping spots near Whitney Point. Country Hills Campground offers "beautiful small lake" settings according to Alex K., creating peaceful surroundings away from crowds.
Accessibility: Convenient locations make Whitney Point camping appealing for different needs. As alyssa F. notes about Hickories Park, "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," highlighting the ease of setup.
Natural shade: Tree cover provides relief from summer heat at many sites. Oleńka S. reports about Bowman Lake: "We had a lot of tree cover so we didn't even need our air conditioning on during an 85 degree day," demonstrating the natural cooling benefits of wooded campsites.
Unique camping options: Beyond standard tent and RV sites, special accommodations exist. Janet R. describes a hike-in lean-to at Cook Park: "For a solo camper who wants a bit if solitude, there is a better and super-nice option—the hike-in lean-to! Its a short hike in, and it is lively, well built shelter and nice fire pit."
Site conditions vary widely: Some campgrounds maintain excellent facilities while others show signs of neglect. At Bowman Lake, Secc P. had a negative experience: "New York State pretty much has abandoned this park. Trees fallen down across the sites. Might be ok for a tent but that's all."
Wildlife encounters: Local fauna can impact camping experiences. Mary S. warns about Chenango Valley: "Beware of raccoons. They are brazen thieves here...and every campground they inhabit. Just don't leave your food out."
Seasonal limitations: Most camping spots near Whitney Point operate on limited schedules. Belden Hill Campgrounds runs from "Apr 1 - Oct 30," typical of the region's camping season due to harsh winters.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic disturbances. Alyssa F. mentions about Hickories Park: "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."
Activity options for children: Pine Valley RV Park & Campground excels with family programming. "This is by far one of the best family oriented campgrounds we've ever been in. So many things for kids to do," shares Mommy D., indicating robust recreational options.
Safety features: Parents appreciate campgrounds with security measures. Alyssa F. notes that at Hickories Park "the campground is well maintained, the porta potty in the tent area was very clean, i felt very safe," important factors for family camping.
Playground access: Some campgrounds lack dedicated play structures. Kim B. observed at Bowman Lake that "it's pretty bustling and everyone spends their time at or along the lake. Nice place though the kids were missing a playground," suggesting families should plan alternative activities.
Bathroom proximity: Consider the distance to facilities when camping with young children. Kelly J. shares about Bowman Lake: "We had never been to site before so when we booked, we thought we were next to a bathroom. Turns out you had to walk through woods to get there in the mud," highlighting the importance of checking facility locations before booking.
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the area require adjustments. Oleńka S. reports about Bowman Lake: "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."
Electrical connections: Power options differ between campgrounds. Tim W. describes Belden Hill: "Pull thru full hookup, level, spacious. Room for pop up canopy and games," making it suitable for RVs needing complete hookups.
Weather considerations: Seasonal rain can impact RV sites. Tim W. notes about Belden Hill: "Unfortunately we were there after a lot of rain from the hurricane, site was wet but useable, not their fault," indicating potential drainage issues during wet periods.
Campground navigation: Some parks present challenges for larger vehicles. Paully B. cautions about Cook Park: "Very small camp ground but nice... Beware, very tight sites amount the pines & very sloped," important information for RVers with larger rigs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best camping spots at Whitney Point Lake?
The best camping spots at Whitney Point Lake include Dorchester Park on the northern shore, which offers waterfront sites with beautiful lake views and easy water access. For a more secluded experience, the eastern shore camping areas provide quieter spots with more tree coverage. If you're seeking alternatives in the region, Bowman Lake State Park Campground offers a peaceful setting with spacious sites, though be aware some campers note maintenance has been inconsistent. For a truly rustic experience near Whitney Point, Ludlow Creek Lean-To Campsite provides a beautiful primitive option alongside Ludlow Creek in Chenango County, perfect for those seeking a wilderness experience not far from Whitney Point Lake.
When is the best time to camp at Whitney Point NY?
The best time to camp at Whitney Point NY is from late May through early October when temperatures are most comfortable and all facilities are fully operational. Peak season runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, offering warm days perfect for swimming and water activities, with July and August being the busiest months. For a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds, consider the shoulder seasons of late May/early June or September/early October when the weather remains pleasant and fall foliage adds spectacular color to the landscape. Taughannock Falls State Park Campground similarly experiences optimal conditions during these periods, while Blueberry Patch Campground in the Finger Lakes region is especially beautiful during the fall color season.
What amenities are available at Dorchester Park campground in Whitney Point?
Dorchester Park campground in Whitney Point offers a comprehensive range of amenities including modern restrooms with hot showers, potable water stations, and electric hookups at select sites. The campground features picnic tables and fire rings at each site, along with a dump station for RVs. Recreational amenities include a swimming beach with lifeguards (in season), boat launches, fishing piers, and playgrounds. The park also has several hiking trails, sports fields, and picnic pavilions available for group gatherings. For campers seeking alternatives with similar amenities in the region, Country Hills Campground near Marathon and Belden Hill Campgrounds near Harpursville both offer full-service camping experiences with modern facilities.
Is fishing allowed at Whitney Point Reservoir?
Yes, fishing is allowed at Whitney Point Reservoir, which is known for excellent year-round fishing opportunities. The reservoir is well-stocked with various species including walleye, crappie, perch, bass, and catfish. Anglers can enjoy both shore fishing and boat fishing, with multiple access points around the lake. During winter, ice fishing is popular when conditions permit. Nearby Hickories Park Campground offers convenient lake access for fishing enthusiasts, while Chenango Valley State Park Campground provides another excellent base for fishing trips in the region. Remember that a valid New York State fishing license is required, and specific regulations regarding catch limits and seasons apply.
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