Bowman Lake State Park
Closed — Closed for the season. Opens May 15, 2026 and operates through September 6, 2026. Reservations available up to 9 months in advance via ReserveAmerica. Limited to 14 consecutive nights per stay.
Winter Weather Advisory issued December 30 at 12:42AM EST until December 31 at 7:00AM EST by NWS Binghamton NY
* WHAT...Lake effect snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 3 and 7 inches with locally higher amounts possible. Winds gusting as high as 50 mph will create blowing snow, which could reduce visibility. * WHERE...Chenango, Cortland, and Otsego Counties. * WHEN...Until 7 AM EST Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be difficult. Areas of blowing and drifting snow could reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning and evening commutes. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Higher snow totals up to 10 inches are possible across the northern portions of these counties. Near blizzard conditions are possible at times Tuesday morning, especially in open, exposed locations.
Wind Advisory issued December 30 at 12:42AM EST until December 30 at 7:00PM EST by NWS Binghamton NY
* WHAT...West winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph. * WHERE...Portions of central New York and northeast Pennsylvania. * WHEN...Until 7 PM EST this evening. * IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.
About
Bowman Lake State Park is a 967-acre remote sylvan retreat in Chenango County, Central New York, known as 'a camper's paradise.' The park features scenic roads that wind through evergreen and hardwood forests leading to one of the largest campgrounds in central New York with 150 well-spaced campsites designed for both tents and trailers, plus 8 rustic cabins near the lake. Some campsites offer electric hookups, while cabins provide shelter from the elements without electricity or water, except for Cabin 60 which has electricity. The park centers around its namesake lake with a sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing, complemented by several picnic areas. The lake is regularly stocked with trout, making it popular for fishing. Birdwatchers can spot up to 103 species. The park features a nature center and over 13 miles of scenic trails for hiking. Winter visitors enjoy designated snowmobile and cross-country ski trails, though ice fishing is not permitted. Facilities include two shower buildings, restrooms, a boat launch, playground, dump station, and a pavilion. The park offers a peaceful, forested setting ideal for those seeking a back-to-basics camping experience. Nearby attractions include Gilbert Lake State Park, Chenango Valley State Park, and Glimmerglass State Park.
Directions
Located off Route 220, 8 miles west of Oxford in the town of McDonough, Chenango County.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | Yes |
| Price | $17 - $75 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 50ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 50ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | Yes |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (607) 334-2718 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
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