East Sidney Lake Campground

- 4659 State Highway 357,, Franklin, NY 13775

Introduction / Overview

For New York residents looking for the quintessential summer escape, East Sidney Lake Campground in the rolling hills of the Catskill Foothills offers an idyllic, family-friendly retreat. More than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV, this destination—operated as part of the East Sidney Lake Park Recreation Area—is a hub for water-based fun, relaxation, and unplugged quality time. It successfully blends the natural beauty of Upstate New York with essential modern conveniences.

East Sidney Lake is a significant feature of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' flood control project, but its modern function is to provide exceptional outdoor recreation. The lake itself covers approximately 210 acres, offering a clean, safe environment for activities ranging from swimming to motorized boating. The campground is well-regarded by local users who appreciate its quiet, safe atmosphere, and its focus on seasonal and long-term stays, which contributes to a friendly, community-like feel throughout the summer months.

A recent customer review captured the spirit of the park, noting that it is "alot of fun but also relaxing," making it suitable for both active families and those simply seeking a peaceful weekend by the water. With powered sites available for RVs, clean facilities, and an abundance of lakeside activities, East Sidney Lake Campground is a compelling choice for New Yorkers aiming to make the most of the camping season.

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Location and Accessibility

East Sidney Lake Campground is conveniently situated in the picturesque countryside of Delaware County, New York. Its specific location at the intersection of rural tranquility and regional accessibility makes it a prime choice for residents across the state, particularly those traveling from Central New York and the Metropolitan Area.

The campground's official address is 4659 State Highway 357, Franklin, NY 13775, USA. While the mailing address is Franklin, the facility is geographically close to the towns of Sidney and Unadilla. The location provides a perfect balance—far enough to feel like a true retreat, yet easy to reach:

• The campground is nestled approximately four highway miles downstream from the village of Franklin and six miles upstream from the town of Unadilla, placing it in a well-known area for Upstate recreation.
• Access is straightforward via New York State Route 357, connecting quickly to major thoroughfares like Interstate 88 for travelers coming from the Albany/Schenectady region or the Binghamton/Southern Tier area.
• The setting offers a rural, natural environment, characterized by rolling hills and lush forests, ideal for those seeking a temporary break from urban noise and traffic.

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Services Offered

East Sidney Lake Campground focuses on accommodating both short-term visitors and those who wish to make the lake their primary summer destination. The services are tailored to support a comfortable and extended stay, particularly for RV enthusiasts:

• Diverse Campsite Options: The park provides multiple types of sites, including dedicated tent sites, as well as numerous RV sites with electric hook-ups for both short-term overnight stays and long-term seasonal rentals. There are approximately 85 RV sites with electric hookups and 14 tent sites.
• Long-Term and Seasonal Camping: A major offering is the availability of seasonal campsite rentals, which are popular and often sell out. This allows New York families to establish a comfortable summer home-base at the lake.
• Utilities: Powered sites (electric hookups) are available for campers and RVs. Each individual campsite is also furnished with a picnic table for outdoor dining and gathering.
• Comfort Facilities: Clean and well-maintained shower blocks and toilet facilities are available, as noted by visitors, ensuring a comfortable experience for all campers, regardless of their equipment.
• Staff Availability: While the campground is open seasonally, office hours typically run during the weekdays, roughly 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Visitors are advised to inquire ahead, especially for walk-in availability.
• Payment Options: For convenience, accepted forms of payment often include cash or cheque for on-site transactions, though reservations for longer stays may involve online payment through affiliated park booking systems.

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Features / Highlights

The primary draw of East Sidney Lake Campground is the wealth of water-based recreation and the beautiful, relaxed atmosphere that defines the Catskill Foothills experience:

• Water Recreation Hub: The 210-acre East Sidney Lake is the centerpiece, offering a wide array of activities including swimming, boating (both non-motorized and motorized), tubing, canoeing, and kayaking. A convenient, accessible boat launch is provided.
• Sandy Beach and Volleyball: The recreation area features a sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and cooling off in the lake’s water. A dedicated volleyball court is located right by the water, providing entertainment for families and groups.
• Fishing Excellence: The lake is highly popular among anglers and is well-stocked with various fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, common carp, brown bullhead, rock bass, and yellow perch.
• Family-Oriented Activities: The park organizes weekend family activities during the summer season. There is also a playground, large pavilions for gatherings, and waterfront picnic areas equipped with grills.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural surroundings of the dam and lake attract diverse wildlife, with frequent sightings of bald eagles, adding an element of nature appreciation to the camping experience.
• Picturesque Scenery: The dam location provides spectacular, picturesque sunsets over the lake, enhancing the relaxing and scenic quality of the evening campfire experience.

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Contact Information

For New York residents planning a trip or inquiring about seasonal reservations, the East Sidney Lake Campground can be reached directly via the following contact information:

Address: 4659 State Highway 357, Franklin, NY 13775, USA

Phone: (607) 829-6433

Mobile Phone: +1 607-829-6433

It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially to confirm availability for short-term camping, as many sites are dedicated to seasonal renters, and staff presence for walk-ins can be limited outside of core office hours.

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Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

East Sidney Lake Campground is an ideal and highly suitable destination for New York locals for several compelling reasons. Crucially, it provides a much-needed, easily accessible break from the high-stress, fast-paced environments that characterize much of the state, especially downstate regions. Its location in the tranquil Catskill Foothills is close enough for a reasonable drive but far enough to feel like a complete change of pace.

The emphasis on both short-term rentals and long-term seasonal sites makes it perfect for families seeking to build enduring summer traditions. The community-oriented, safe environment, as attested by visitors, provides peace of mind. Moreover, the unparalleled access to the 210-acre lake—where one can enjoy everything from calm canoeing and fishing to invigorating tubing and swimming—ensures that every member of the family finds an activity they love. For New Yorkers seeking a quiet, safe, and activity-rich escape from the summer heat and city hustle, East Sidney Lake Campground is a reliable and highly recommended choice for an authentic Upstate experience.

East Sidney Lake Campground

4659 State Highway 357,, Franklin, NY 13775, USA