Camping options around Whitney Point, New York encompass a range of terrain types from wooded forests to lakeside settings. The area sits within the glacially-formed landscape of the Allegheny Plateau at elevations ranging from 900 to 1,600 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with cooler nights around 55-65°F, creating ideal camping conditions from May through October.
What to do
Kayaking on Chenango Valley lakes: Chenango Valley State Park offers prime paddling opportunities on its two glacial kettle lakes. "Nice green park on the water. Great wildlife (wood ducks & kingfishers). Camp sites are simple and clean, staff helped me pick one over the phone," notes Dan N. from Chenango Valley State Park Campground.
Hiking glacial formations: Take advantage of the educational trails that highlight the region's geological history. "Short easy trails. Lots of info about the glaciers that formed the lakes you can swim in," reports a Chenango Valley visitor. Trails range from 0.5 to 3 miles in length with minimal elevation gain, making them suitable for most skill levels.
Fishing year-round: The lakes and rivers provide abundant fishing opportunities for trout and bass. Matt G. mentions that at Hickories Park, "The river is very close, some campsites are right on the river," making it convenient to cast a line directly from your campsite.
Mountain biking through forests: Multiple trails accommodate beginner to intermediate riders. "There's a perfect lake for kayaking for beginner or seasoned, as well as great hiking and mountain biking trails," says Paully B. about recreational options at Chenango Valley.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Campers consistently praise the generous site sizing and natural surroundings. "The sites are a good size. Some more secluded than others," explains Diana A. from Hickories Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "The bathhouses are clean and well lit at night," notes a visitor to Taughannock Falls, while another camper reports that facilities at Chenango Valley are "pretty good restrooms/showers."
Swimming opportunities: From natural lake beaches to dedicated swimming areas. "The beach area is well staffed and clean. Changing areas are available as well as a splash pad for the little kids," says Fred C. about Chenango Valley State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The parks offer excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Mary S. observed, "We had four [deer] that were feeding behind our site in the morning" at Chenango Valley, while multiple campers report regular bird sightings throughout the region's parks.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The camping season typically runs May through October with reason. "We were just passing through on a rainy night, but this park would be a good choice for a multi-night stay," notes a visitor to Chenango Valley, highlighting the region's variable weather patterns.
Wildlife precautions: Prepare for wildlife encounters with proper food storage. "Beware of raccoons. They are brazen thieves here...and every campground they inhabit. Just don't leave your food out," warns a Chenango Valley visitor. Bears are occasionally spotted in the region as well.
Water access varies: Not all campgrounds offer the same water amenities. At Bowman Lake State Park Campground, a visitor notes, "There was a potable water spigot a few sites over and a bathroom with showers a short walk away," indicating the need to check specific site amenities.
Reservation planning: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. A visitor to Pine Valley mentions, "This is by far one of the best family oriented campgrounds we've ever been in," suggesting advance reservations are recommended, especially for summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. At Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, "There is a small playground for kids," notes Barbara S., while Chenango Valley offers "Playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach."
Kid-friendly water features: Several parks offer swimming options specifically designed for children. "They have so many birds, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits and insects that it was a veritable wonderland. Playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards," explains Mary P. about Chenango Valley.
Biking opportunities: Many campgrounds feature safe biking paths for children. Courtney Z. advises visitors to Chenango Valley to "Bring your bikes, the swimming is great and the entire swimming/boating area just underwent a major renovation."
Security considerations: Parents appreciate the supervised environment. "The park is well maintained and monitored by park police, very safe!" states a Chenango camper, providing peace of mind for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary between campgrounds. At Pine Valley RV Park & Campground, lakeside sites offer full hookups, while Mark L. notes they are "spacious and reasonably priced."
Pad surface quality: Parking surfaces differ significantly between campgrounds. Mary S. observes that at Chenango Valley, "Parking pads in the non-electric section are dirt/grass," while "Parking pads in the electric loops (30 amps and 50 amps) have a good amount of gravel."
Size restrictions: Some areas have limitations for larger rigs. A visitor to Robert H. Treman State Park Campground notes, "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers."
Dump station access: Most established campgrounds provide dump stations, but locations vary. At Chenango Valley, "Water spigots on the loops and more water at the dump station," provides convenient access for RV maintenance needs.
