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State Park · NY

Chenango Valley State Park

Chenango Valley State Park offers a diverse outdoor experience in central New York with miles of trails, three lakes, and a range of recreational activities year-round.

State Park10594+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1059

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Chenango Valley State Park

Chenango Valley State Park offers a diverse outdoor experience in central New York with miles of trails, three lakes, and a range of recreational activities year-round.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Chenango Valley State Park is a 1,059-acre state park located near Binghamton in Broome County, New York. The park features three connected lakes—Chenango Lake, Lily Lake, and Mill Pond—that provide ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and paddle sports. The park's terrain includes mixed hardwood forests, wetlands, and open meadows, supporting a variety of wildlife such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and many bird species. Visitors can explore approximately 10 miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. The park also offers several facilities including a large campground with over 200 sites, picnic areas, and a swimming beach. Historically, the park was developed during the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, which built many of the stone structures and facilities still in use today. Chenango Valley State Park is a popular local destination for families, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking scenic views and varied recreational options close to urban areas. Its accessible location and well-maintained amenities make it a versatile destination throughout all seasons, from spring fishing and summer swimming to fall foliage viewing and winter snowshoeing.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Chenango Valley State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Snowboarding & Skiing at Greek Peak Mountain Resort★ 7.5⌖ 26 miSkiing and Snowboarding
2008-2024 NY-392

Snowboarding & Skiing at Greek Peak Mountain Resort

Greek Peak Mountain Resort, just 45 minutes from Ithaca, offers skiing and snowboarding with over 55 trails and 6 lifts. Known for its adventure center and family-friendly atmosphere, the resort is busiest on weekends and features scenic views of the Finger Lakes.

Skiing and SnowboardingView Details→
Cross-Country Skiing at Hammond Hill State Forest near Ithaca, New York★ 7.0⌖ 27 miCross-Country Skiing
16-102 Hammond Hill Rd

Cross-Country Skiing at Hammond Hill State Forest near Ithaca, New York

Explore the serene trails of Hammond Hill State Forest near Ithaca, New York. Best suited for cross-country skiing in winter, this tranquil spot offers trails for all skill levels. Drive-in access and a peaceful winter environment offer a delightful experience for skiers looking for solitude.

Cross-Country SkiingView Details→
Hiking the Abbott Loop Trail in Danby State Forest★ 7.5⌖ 30 miHiking
496-352 Hill Rd

Hiking the Abbott Loop Trail in Danby State Forest

Explore the 8-mile Abbott Loop Trail in Danby State Forest near Ithaca, NY. With moderate difficulty, this trail offers diverse terrains and stunning nature views. Ideal for hiking enthusiasts and wildlife watchers, it's best visited in spring and fall.

Hiking the Cayuga Trail★ 7.8⌖ 33 miHiking
1057-1061 NY-366

Hiking the Cayuga Trail

Explore the Cayuga Trail near Ithaca, New York, offering varied wildlife and scenic views over its moderate distance. This trail is ideal for hiking and birding, providing a chance for solitude in a serene environment.

Swimming at Buttermilk Falls: A Finger Lakes Oasis★ 7.8⌖ 35 miSwimming
Upper Buttermilk Falls Park Road

Swimming at Buttermilk Falls: A Finger Lakes Oasis

Explore Buttermilk Falls State Park near Ithaca, NY, known for its scenic waterfalls and swimming spots. The designated swimming area at the Lower Falls offers a refreshing escape amid lush surroundings. Best visited in summer when crowds are busiest.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Three connected lakes providing diverse water-based recreation✦ Historic Civilian Conservation Corps stonework and picnic shelters✦ Extensive trail network for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing✦ Family-friendly campground with modern amenities
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Chenango Valley State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Chenango Valley State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Chenango Valley State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Chenango Valley State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Chenango Valley State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Chenango Valley State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Chenango Valley State Park
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Chenango Valley State Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Chenango Valley State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Chenango Valley State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Chenango Valley State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Day-use entry fees apply; NY State Parks Pass accepted; camping requires reservation.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Chenango Valley State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Chenango Valley State Park Campground

Large campground with electric and non-electric sites, modern restrooms, showers, and close proximity to lakes and trails.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Chenango Valley State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Port Dickinson
⌖ 2.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Port Dickinson, New York

A quiet, suburban village offering easy access to river activities and nearby natural areas, perfect for a low-key outdoor escape.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Port Crane
⌖ 4.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Port Crane, New York

A quiet riverside hamlet offering tranquil paddling, gentle hiking, and seasonal outdoor escapes along the Susquehanna River corridor.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Binghamton
⌖ 4.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Binghamton, New York

A riverfront town offering diverse outdoor activities with a mix of urban conveniences and access to nearby natural areas in the Southern Tier region.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Whitney Point
⌖ 11.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Whitney Point, New York

A tranquil small-town setting offering serene outdoor activities with easy access to paddling, fishing, and seasonal nature exploration along the Susquehanna River.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Apalachin
⌖ 13.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Apalachin, New York

A peaceful river town offering easy access to outdoor water activities, gentle hiking, and a quiet gateway to the Southern Tier’s natural attractions.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Owego
⌖ 17.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Owego, New York

A small riverside town offering quiet outdoor escapes with scenic hiking, paddling on the Susquehanna River, and seasonal outdoor activities in the Southern Tier region.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Chenango Valley State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.