Happy Camping in Cortland County

Whether you’re a hardcore glamper, a tent-slinging traditionalist, or somewhere in between, Cortland County is packed with places to pitch your perfect weekend. From lakeside retreats and music-filled nights to pancake breakfasts and ping pong battles, there’s no shortage of ways to kick back under the stars. Bonus: most sites are pet-friendly, so your dog can finally live out their ruffing it dreams.

Ready to trade your inbox for a tackle box? Let’s explore some of the best campgrounds Cortland County has to offer.

2000 NYS Rt. 392, Cortland, NY | (866) 376-3907 | Website

Tucked into the rolling hills near Greek Peak, The Campground at Hope Lake is your all-access pass to outdoor adventure. Whether you’re ziplining through the treetops, riding the mountain coaster, paddling across a peaceful lake, or just roasting marshmallows under the stars, this place is peak (get it?) family fun, four legged friends included!

Choose from 26 full-hookup RV sites or 15 shaded tent spots nestled in a quiet grove, all pet-friendly and just a short walk from Hope Lake Park. There, you’ll find a sandy beach, paddleboard and kayak rentals, hiking trails, and picnic areas. A modern bathhouse with showers, laundry, and Wi-Fi makes roughing it feel a little less rough. And there's always wood at the self serve station for late night campfires.

1165 Muckey Road, Marathon, NY | (607) 849-3300 | Website

If you're looking for a peaceful spot to unplug Country Hills Campground is calling. Nestled in the hills near Marathon and just a short drive from Syracuse or Binghamton, this spot has everything you need for a relaxing getaway.

There’s a mix of open and shaded sites for tents and RVs, all with full hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits ready for s’mores season. You can spend the day paddling around the pond, casting a line in their catch-and-release fishing hole, or just lounging with your pup.

Feeling a little more adventurous? Finger Lakes Trail access is just down the road, and the town of Marathon has some great local eats and even a medieval theme distillery!

Got a group? Country Hills is great for club meetups or big family gatherings. Just give them a call about their group packages, and they’ll even help out with meals so you can skip the stress and enjoy the fun.

1804 Route 13, Cortland, NY | (607) 753-0377 | Website

If you like your campfires with a side of live music, this is your kind of place. Cortland Country Music Park & Campgrounds is home to the New York State Country Music Museum and Opry Barn (a live music venue).

Located just off I-81 in Cortland, the campground has 107 sites (most with water and electric hookups), clean bathhouses, and a spring fed pond for catch-and-release fishing.

At the Cortland County Music Park there's always something going on, from fishing derbies, potluck dinners, craft shows, pancake breakfasts, and live music all season long. Between sets, take a stroll through the Hall of Fame to check out memorabilia from Nashville legends and New York State artists alike.

Need to stretch your legs off-site? You’re five minutes from the  historic village of Homer and just 10 from downtown Cortland. Both great spots for a bite to eat or a little local shopping. Bonus: the whole campground is pet-friendly, so your four-legged backup singer can come too!

5816 Hickey Road, Truxton, NY | (607) 842-6401 | Website

Looking for a classic camping escape, set deep in the woods? Forest Lake Campground might be your new favorite spot. Spread out over 350 wooded acres, this peaceful Truxton getaway feels like a mini-Adirondacks, tucked in heart of Central New York.

Settle into one of the roomy campsites, each with water and electric hookups, plus picnic tables and fire pits perfect for grilling dinner (or making a mean s’more).

The private eight-acre lake is ideal for boating or a little catch-and-release fishing, and the on-site Game Room is always ready for a ping pong challenge. And to top it all off, there’s an ice cream shop right at the campground!

If hiking’s on your list, head just 15 minutes north to the Labrador Hollow Unique Area, where you can wander the North County Trail, Finger Lakes Trail and marvel at the gorgeous 50-foot Tinker Falls. 

Just a couple miles from Historic Downtown Cortland, Yellow Lantern Kampground is a classic, cozy camping spot where vintage charm meets modern convenience. With spacious sites for everything from snug little campers to giant RVs, you can choose between sunny and shaded spots, with water and electric hookups or full hookups if you want all the comforts of home.

There’s a well-stocked camp store on site, so if you forgot your bug spray, marshmallows, or that one elusive tent pole, they’ve got you covered. The bathrooms, showers, and laundry facilities are clean and convenient, making it easy to settle in for a long stay.

At Yellow Lantern you're kiddos will never be bored. There’s a pool for hot summer afternoons, a recreation hall with a community fire pit for nighttime get-togethers, and a vintage playground that’s perfectly maintained and full of nostalgic charm. Think classic teeter-totters and metal slides that transport you straight back to summer camp. The river that runs along the back of the property is great for a bit of quiet fishing, and the campground regularly hosts events like bingo and wagon rides to keep things lively.

You’re also just minutes away from Cortland’s historic attractions - the 1890 House Museum, CNY Living History Center, and the Cortland County Historical Society - so your adventures don’t have to stop at the campsite. Best of all? It’s pet-friendly, so the whole family (four-legged members included) can join in on the fun.

No matter how you like to camp you’ll find your sweet spot in Cortland County. With scenic trails, fishing holes, lakeside views, and plenty of fun extras (did someone say on-site ice cream?), your next outdoor adventure is just a reservation away.

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