Hickories Park Camping and BBQ Area, Owego, NY

Introduction / Overview

For New York residents seeking an accessible and affordable escape into nature without traveling great distances, Hickories Park Camping and BBQ Area in Owego, NY, stands out as a premier local destination. This expansive park, managed by the Town of Owego, is nestled directly along the picturesque banks of the Susquehanna River, providing a serene backdrop for both short-term weekend campers and those looking for a longer seasonal retreat. Unlike some exclusive, high-priced resorts, Hickories Park is celebrated for its straightforward, no-frills approach to family-friendly recreation and camping, making it a beloved institution in the Southern Tier.

The facility offers a mix of camping options, accommodating everything from large recreational vehicles to traditional tent setups, ensuring that virtually every type of outdoor enthusiast can find a comfortable spot. The park’s commitment to providing a welcoming atmosphere is frequently highlighted in local feedback, with one patron noting the "nice quiet park, some shaded sites," and another cherishing the location for its creation of "so many memories." In essence, Hickories Park is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a community hub that connects local users with the natural beauty and communal spirit of Tioga County.

It is important to note for new visitors that the park operates on a first-come, first-served basis for daily and weekly campers, and payment is typically handled via cash or check, reflecting its community-run nature. These operational details are part of the park's appeal, offering simplicity and value that is increasingly rare in the contemporary camping landscape.

Location and Accessibility

The strategic location of Hickories Park is one of its most significant advantages for residents across New York. Situated at 359 Hickories Park Rd, Owego, NY 13827, USA, the campground offers a perfect blend of natural seclusion and urban convenience. This makes it an ideal spot for a quick, uncomplicated getaway for locals in the greater Binghamton area, Ithaca, and even the Finger Lakes region.

Accessibility is excellent, which is a key factor for weekend travelers hauling RVs or camping gear:

Major Highway Access: The park is conveniently located less than one mile off the major east-west corridor, State Route 17/I-86 (the Southern Tier Expressway), making arrival and departure exceptionally simple.
Proximity to Owego Village: The historic, charming Village of Owego is just a short two-mile drive away. This means campers have easy access to essential amenities, including grocery stores, pharmacies, local breweries, and unique shopping in the Historic Owego Marketplace, ensuring a hassle-free stay.
Waterfront Location: Being set directly along the Susquehanna River provides immediate access for boating, kayaking, and fishing activities—a primary draw for many New York outdoor lovers.

The combination of easy travel access and immediate proximity to a vibrant small town solidifies Hickories Park as a highly practical choice for a local New York camping trip.

Services Offered

Hickories Park is dedicated to providing comprehensive and well-maintained services to ensure a comfortable stay for all visitors, whether they arrive in a tent or a fully-equipped RV. The services are structured to maximize convenience while maintaining a focus on core camping essentials:

Campsite Hookups: The park offers a variety of RV sites, including full hook-up sites with electric, water, and sewer connections (available in both 30-amp and 50-amp service), as well as sites with only water and electric for those closer to the river.
Tent Camping: Dedicated tent sites with access to nearby water and electric are available, accommodating traditional campers at an affordable rate.
Essential Facilities: Clean and functional bathhouses with hot showers and restrooms are provided for all campers. There is also an on-site dump station for RVs.
Septic Service: A service for on-site septic removal is available for a nominal fee, providing an extra layer of convenience for long-term RV guests.
Seasonal Stays: The park offers seasonal site rentals, providing an excellent, affordable option for local residents who wish to keep their RV set up for the entirety of the New York camping season (typically April to October).

The transparent and competitive pricing, particularly for the full hook-up sites, represents a significant value proposition for local campers.

Features / Highlights

Beyond the basic services, Hickories Park offers a wealth of community and recreational features that enhance the experience and make it a true local highlight:

The Susquehanna River Access: A public boat launch allows campers and local residents to easily put boats, kayaks, and canoes into the river for fishing and recreational paddling. The riverside location itself is a source of scenic beauty and opportunities to view various species of wildlife, as noted in customer reviews.
State-of-the-Art Dog Park: The Rebecca Weitsman Memorial Dog Park is a key modern amenity, offering a secure, dedicated space for dogs to play off-leash, a huge benefit for pet-owning campers.
Family Recreation Areas: The park boasts multiple playgrounds for children, volleyball courts, and large athletic fields suitable for soccer and other outdoor games. The paved roads also serve as excellent walking, running, and biking paths for all ages.
Community Events and Bandshell: Hickories Park features a bandshell and hosts various community events, including the popular Concerts in the Park series during the summer, creating a lively community atmosphere that extends beyond the campground itself.
Day-Use BBQ Areas: Numerous picnic tables, grills, and large pavilions are available for day use, making it a perfect spot for local families to host cookouts, reunions, or birthday parties.

These features ensure that the park appeals to a wide demographic, from solo RV travelers to large New York families seeking a memorable outdoor vacation.

Contact Information

For local New York residents interested in daily rates, seasonal availability, or general park information, the Town of Owego Parks Department manages the operation and can be contacted directly:

Address: 359 Hickories Park Rd, Owego, NY 13827, USA

Phone: (607) 687-1199

Park Office Hours: 7:00 A.M. – 3:30 P.M. (It is advised to call during these times for direct assistance.)

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Hickories Park Camping and BBQ Area is exceptionally suitable for New York locals, particularly those in the Southern Tier region, for three primary reasons: unbeatable accessibility, remarkable value, and a strong sense of community. The park provides an escape to the outdoors without the logistical headaches associated with remote or high-demand state parks, as it is conveniently located just minutes off a major highway and near essential town services.

For families, the dual draw of the Susquehanna River access and the dedicated recreational features—from the dog park to the playgrounds and concert venues—means that all members can find a way to relax and engage. As a Town of Owego facility, it is inherently community-focused, welcoming both overnight visitors and day-use patrons to its expansive grounds for barbecues and leisurely activities. The availability of affordable daily and monthly rates for a range of camping styles makes it a highly economical option for a season-long home base or a spontaneous weekend trip. For New York residents seeking a high-value, nature-filled, and family-friendly camping experience that is truly part of the local fabric, Hickories Park is consistently the top choice in Tioga County.