Bowman Lake State Park

4.44

78 reviews

745 BLIVEN SHERMAN ROAD, OXFORD, New York, 13830, United States

Peace & QuietSummer Destination

Quick Facts

1,686 ft

Price

$18 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

150 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Regional Programs and Services - Camping Unit site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,686 ft

Price

$18 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

150 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Regional Programs and Services - Camping Unit site

Official Website

Get Directions

Bowman Lake State Park

$18.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $18 to $35 depending on the type of site and amenities. Cabins and premium sites may have higher fees.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Reserve America

Provider

6073342718

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.44

Recommended

Based on 78 reviews

392 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanshowersspacioushiking

"Overall, reviews for Bowman Lake State Park are positive, with many emphasizing its natural beauty, clean facilities, and quiet, secluded campsites. Some concerns include rocky tent sites, lack of cell service, and inconsistent quiet-hour enforcement."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

745 BLIVEN SHERMAN ROAD, OXFORD, New York, 13830, United States

Bowman Lake State Park

745 BLIVEN SHERMAN ROAD, OXFORD, New York, 13830, United States

Driving directionsThe park is located off Route 220, 8 miles west of Oxford. Visitors can call the ranger station at 607-334-2718 for additional guidance.

The park is relatively accessible by road, but some user reviews have noted challenges with the 'hill after hill (some extremely steep)...curve after curve' terrain leading to the park, particularly from areas like Candor to Bowman Lake.

Nearby places

Oxford: 8 miles, approximately 15 minutes by car

Walmart (location unspecified but mentioned in reviews): approximately 15 minutes by car.

Nearby supplies

The closest supermarket is about 20 minutes away, according to user reviews. Firewood, ice, and other basic supplies are available for purchase at the park office.

Best Time to Camp at Bowman Lake State Park

Experience the magic of four distinct seasons at Bowman Lake, where each brings its own adventures. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered playground perfect for snowmobiling enthusiasts and cross-country skiers gliding through frosted forests. As temperatures rise, the trails shed their white blankets to reveal hiking paths through verdant woods. Visitors should note that swimming areas operate on a seasonal schedule without lifeguard services, and winter weeks can bring dramatic weather shifts with mixed precipitation and freezing conditions that add to the wilderness experience.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Most popular season: swimming, hiking, family activities and beach use emphasized.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall foliage and quieter trails are noted; good hiking and scenic views in autumn.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring offers fishing, fewer crowds, and reopening of lake activities; less-documented season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Winter offers snowmobiling and XC skiing but has fewer reviews and limited services.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: The open and closed seasons are not explicitly provided, though activities suggest year-round availability for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing in winter.
Current Alerts: None explicitly listed at this time.

About Bowman Lake State Park

Nestled across 967 acres of pristine wilderness, Bowman Lake State Park has earned its reputation as a camper's paradise among outdoor enthusiasts. This secluded haven invites visitors to choose from 150 thoughtfully placed campsites or settle into one of eight charming rustic cabins. The centerpiece is a serene lake with inviting sandy shores, while miles of winding trails beckon hikers in summer and transform into snowmobile highways come winter. Those who venture here consistently praise the park's remarkable tranquility—a rare gift in today's busy world.

Bowman Lake State Park caters to various camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and cabin lodging. However, there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available at the sites.

Historical SignificanceWhile the park's recorded history remains quietly tucked away, the land itself tells the timeless story of New York's natural heritage through its ancient forests and pristine waters.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of four distinct seasons at Bowman Lake, where each brings its own adventures. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered playground perfect for snowmobiling enthusiasts and cross-country skiers gliding through frosted forests. As temperatures rise, the trails shed their white blankets to reveal hiking paths through verdant woods. Visitors should note that swimming areas operate on a seasonal schedule without lifeguard services, and winter weeks can bring dramatic weather shifts with mixed precipitation and freezing conditions that add to the wilderness experience.

ElevationThe park's varied terrain creates a landscape of rolling hills and peaceful valleys that add depth and character to every vista. These natural contours provide both challenging climbs for ambitious hikers and gentle slopes perfect for leisurely strolls.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living tapestry where towering evergreens mingle with graceful hardwoods, creating a diverse forest ecosystem that changes with the seasons. At the heart of it all lies a jewel-like lake, regularly stocked to delight anglers and reflecting the sky like nature's mirror. Birdwatchers will discover a feathered paradise with over 103 documented species filling the air with song. The network of scenic trails winds through this varied landscape, offering everything from lakeside ambles to ridge-top panoramas.

Geological RegionBowman Lake State Park sprawls across 967 acres in the heart of rural Chenango County, where nature has crafted a perfect blend of forest and water. The landscape showcases the region's geological diversity, from the dense stands of evergreen and hardwood forests that blanket the rolling terrain to the small but stunning lake carved into the earth. This corner of New York State remains refreshingly undeveloped, offering visitors an authentic glimpse of the area's natural character.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Exact check-in time is not specified.

Check-out

Exact check-out time is not specified.

Stay Limit

14 continuous nights, after which the camping party must leave the site for 48 hours before registering again.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Details on the maximum number of guests per site are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops with both wooded and more open sites. Some are close to facilities, while others are secluded and spacious.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Reserve America. Pre-registration is encouraged to save time before arrival.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability or first-come-first-serve conditions are not specified.

Cancellation PolicyReservations with departure dates outside the 9-month maximum window cannot be changed or canceled until 18 days after the reservation was made.

AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features are not mentioned, but the park strives to provide a serene environment with maintained trails and facilities.

Site SizeVaried site sizes with some suitable for large RVs, as noted by Barbara Weber, who mentioned, 'Sites are spacious for our 37’-rig.

PrivacyThe campsites offer good privacy, as stated in reviews like Brendan F., who commented, 'The campsites are far enough apart that you feel like you have privacy.' Some complaints noted rocky and uneven grounds for tenting.

Total Campsites150 campsites

Recommended SitesTent campers should avoid rocky sites and consider bringing their own firewood, as the wood sold at the park is described as damp and hard to light.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a wide range of activities suited for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Highlights include hiking on 13 miles of trails, birdwatching with over 103 species recorded, swimming at the sandy lakefront, fishing, and winter activities like snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

HikingThe park features 13 miles of hiking trails. Valerie Cunningham highlighted, 'There are lots of hiking trails and even the Finger Lakes trail well marked.'

FishingFishing is available in the lake, which is regularly stocked with trout. However, some reviews, like matthew marchewka's, noted that 'fishing could be better.'

SwimmingThe sandy beach allows for swimming. However, there are no lifeguards, as noted by Valerie Cunningham, 'No lifeguard so you can swim freely.'

BikingBiking is a popular activity in the park, though no detailed reviews are available specifically about the biking experience.

BoatingBoating is allowed, but equipment rentals are not available. Valerie Cunningham stated, 'Bring your own boat, canoe, raft, or kayak as they no longer rent them.'

Wildlife viewingBirdwatching is a notable activity with 103 bird species recorded in the area.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsDeer flies are reported as a significant nuisance by users. One user warns, 'step outside and you will be swarmed.' Rocky and uneven ground is noted as a challenge for tent campers.

Active AlertsNone explicitly listed at this time.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed, and firewood is sold on-site. However, users caution against buying the park's damp firewood. Bringing your own firewood (local to NY state) is recommended.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced, and several users complain of overzealous enforcement, including one saying, 'we were harassed throughout the night.' Another reviewer states, 'if you are not in bed and quiet by 9 pm...BEWARE!'

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are likely available in Oxford, approximately 8 miles or 15 minutes away by car. Specific hospital or police station details are not provided.

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities are present, but recycling specifics are not mentioned. Mihai Pistol noted, 'The closest trash container is also where you may find limited cell reception.'

Water FeaturesThe campground features a small lake with a swimming beach, fishing areas, and hiking trails. Kayaks and canoes are no longer available for rent but can be brought by visitors.

Camp HostRangers and staff are generally described as helpful and friendly, with some negative feedback regarding quiet hour enforcement.

Weather at Bowman Lake State Park

Reviews

4.4

78 reviews

Recommended

Bowman Lake State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, reviews for Bowman Lake State Park are positive, with many emphasizing its natural beauty, clean facilities, and quiet, secluded campsites. Some concerns include rocky tent sites, lack of cell service, and inconsistent quiet-hour enforcement.

Review Summaries

Based on 78 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean bathrooms and showers, spacious and private campsites, family-friendly atmosphere, beautiful beach and lake, well-maintained hiking trails, and a relaxing environment.

Based on 78 reviews

Common Concerns

Rocky tent sites making it hard to pitch tents, lack of cell service, absence of lifeguards, construction disturbances, and issues with quiet-hour enforcement.

Based on 78 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own boat or kayak since rentals are not available. Pack extra lighting for cabins, as they can be darker than expected. Purchase or bring dry firewood, as the on-site wood may be damp.

Based on 78 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season for camping, with highlights including swimming, hiking, and family activities. Winter activities like snowmobiling are available but are less reviewed. Fall offers...

Based on 78 reviews

Camper Quotes

'The bathrooms near our site were SPOTLESS and STOCKED' - Jenn Murphy. 'Great family feel, the lake is beautiful, and my son really enjoyed the storybook hiking trail' - Brendan F.

Based on 78 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviews highlight spacious and private sites, though some tenters find the ground rocky. Rocky sites are better suited for RVs. Barbara Weber mentioned, 'Sites are spacious for our 37’-rig.'

Based on 78 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in reviews.

Based on 78 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, but owners must have proof of rabies inoculation. Pets are not allowed on the beach or in bathrooms. Valerie Cunningham appreciated that rules were not overly restrictive, 'Loved...

Based on 78 reviews

0 review

Add your voice to the Outdoorithm community

Been to Bowman Lake State Park? Your review helps fellow campers discover what makes this place special—and what to expect.

Last updated January 13, 2026

Nearby Campgrounds

Popular campgrounds in New York

Campgrounds

Bowman Lake State Park