Let's Get Happy, Campers
Whether you’re a hardcore glamper, a tent-slinging traditionalist, or somewhere in between (hello, hammock people), 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.
THE CAMPGROUND AT HOPE LAKE
2000 NYS Rt. 392, Cortland, NY | (866) 376-3907
Tucked into the scenic 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 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 ready for your cooler full of snacks. A modern bathhouse with showers, laundry, and Wi-Fi makes roughing it feel a little less rough. But let’s be real—you’ll be too busy playing outside to notice the bars on your phone.
COUNTRY HILLS CAMPGROUND
1165 Muckey Road, Marathon, NY | (607) 849-3300
If you're looking for a peaceful spot to unplug (or just roast the perfect marshmallow), 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 low-key, good-vibes kind of 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—because yes, it's totally pet-friendly.
Feeling a little more adventurous? The Finger Lakes Trail is right nearby, and the town of Marathon has some great local eats (and ice cream, obviously).
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.
CORTLAND COUNTRY MUSIC PARK & CAMPGROUNDS
1804 Route 13, Cortland, NY | (607) 753-0377
If you like your campfires with a side of country music, this is your kind of place. Cortland Country Music Park & Campgrounds is home to the New York State Country Music Hall of Fame—and yes, it’s as fun as it sounds. Just off I-81 in Cortland, the campground has 107 sites (most with water and electric hookups), clean bathhouses, and a peaceful little pond for catch-and-release fishing.
There’s always something going on—think fishing derbies, potluck dinners, pancake breakfasts, and live music all summer long at the Opry Barn. Between songs, 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 charming Homer or 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.
FOREST LAKE CAMPGROUND
5816 Hickey Road, Truxton, NY | (607) 842-6401
Looking for a classic camping escape with major upstate vibes? Forest Lake Campground might be your new favorite spot. Spread out over 350 wooded acres, this peaceful Truxton getaway feels like a mini Adirondacks—with way less drive time.
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. Oh—and did we mention there’s an ice cream shop right at the campground? Yes, please.
If hiking’s on your list, head just 15 minutes north to the Labrador Hollow Unique Area, where you’ll find scenic trails and the gorgeous 50-foot Tinker Falls—bring your camera, it’s a stunner.
.
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 the biggest RVs on the block, you can choose between sunny and shaded spots, with water and electric hookups—or full hookups if you want the full comfort package.
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 relaxing stay.
And when it comes to family fun? This place shines. There’s a pool for those hot summer days, a recreation hall with a fire pit for nighttime hangs, 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.
That's A Wrap
No matter how you like to camp—RV, tent, or "just here for the s’mores"—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.
So pack your bug spray, grab your marshmallow sticks, and come camp out where the wild things snore. We’ll save you a shady spot by the fire.