Bowman Lake State Park
ALERT: Bowman Lake has opened for the season, albeit with a slightly different operation plan,
due to Covid19. The
beach is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Labor Day, with swimming limited to shallow water with no lifeguards on duty. Social distancing guidelines and density restrictions are in place. Groups
will not be allowed to congregate on the beach and face coverings will be
required around public buildings, including restrooms. No
concessions, boat rentals will be available. NYS
Parks welcomes back our patrons, but strongly urges them to follow the above
plan so that everyone in Central New York has an equal opportunity to enjoy our
beautiful park system. 2020 Camping: New York State Park campsites, cabins and cottages are currently open. Reservations can be made in advance by calling toll free 1-800-456-CAMP or http://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com online reservations are required. You must have a reservation to camp. No walk-up camping stays will be accepted.
745 Bliven Sherman Road
Oxford, NY 13830
- General Information: (607) 334-2718
Bowman Lake State Park is a 966.94 acre remote sylvan retreat known as "a camper's paradise." Scenic park roads wind through evergreen and hardwood forests to shady campsites. There is a sandy lakefront for swimmers and sunbathers with several picnic areas nearby. The lake is regularly stocked with trout, and birdwatchers can spot as many as 103 species of birds. The park also has a nature center.
In winter, snowmobilers and cross-country skiers enjoy outstanding scenery on 13 miles of designated trails.
Bowman Lake now offers new "rustic" cabins. These cabins are the perfect in-between for campers who like tents and cabins. Offering protection from the elements, they offer 4 and 6 person cabins, but have no electricity or water. Two (2) night minimum stay required for reservations. Reservations and out-of-state resident fees also apply.
Seasonal Camping Now Available: Choose one of a limited number of campsites and leave your camper from Memorial Day to Labor Day. You may contact the park office directly at 607-334-2718 to make a reservation any time after Labor Day. Seasonal sites DO NOT have electric, water or sewer services. No additional discounts, including the Access Pass, will be accepted for seasonal camping.
Pavilion Information
Bowman Lake has two pavilions. Prices range from $50 to $75 and can accommodate 49 or 75 people. Check availability at ReserveAmerica.com
Pet Policy: A maximum of two pets are allowed in campsites and day use areas unless prohibited by sign or directive. Pets are to be supervised at all times and either be crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length. Proof of rabies inoculation shall be produced if requested by staff. Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).
Hours of Operation
- Open year round, dawn to dusk.
- Park Office Hours:
Memorial Day Weekend - Labor Day: Sunday - Thursday, 9 am to 7 pm; Friday and Saturday 9 am - 9 pmLabor Day - Memorial Day: Winter Hours Vary - Please call the Office. - 2020 Camping Season: An operation plan for the 2020 camping season has been finalized. Please call park office for details.
- Deer and small game hunting allowed in specific areas
2020 Swimming:
Swimming will be available June 13 through Labor Day from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Limited to shallow water, no life guards on duty.- Shelter Reservation: May 22 - Labor Day. Call park to reserve.
- No concession stand
Fees & Rates
Most New York State Parks charge a vehicle use fee to enter the facility. Fees vary by location and season. A list of entry fees and other park use fees is available below. For fees not listed or to verify information, please contact the park directly.
The easy-to-use Empire Pass card is $80- and your key to all-season enjoyment with unlimited day-use entry at most facilities operated by State Parks and the State Dept. of Environmental Conservation including forests, beaches, trails and more. Purchase online or contact your favorite park for more information. Learn more about our Admission Programs including the Empire Pass.
- Campsites
- $15-19/night
*Additional $5/night for out-of-state patrons, $7.25 ReserveAmerica fee, $1.25 walk in fee.
Rustic Cabins:
$58 per night (6 person), $45.50 per night (4 person)
We have three cabins down by the lake now. Cabins A & B are 6 person at $65 pernight & C is 4 person at $52.50 per night.
*Additional $7/night for out-of-state patrons, $7.25 ReserveAmerica fee, $1.25 walk in in fee.
- Vehicle Entrance Fee
- Cars: Free
Non-Commercial Bus Fee: Free
Commercial Bus Fee: Free
Seasonal Bus Permit: Free
Maps
New! Download this park's digital map to your iOS Apple and Android device.
Firewood source maps show a 50-mile radius from which untreated firewood may be moved to this campground. For more information see firewood restrictions.
Amenities Information
- Amenities
- Biking
- Boat Launches
- Camper Assistance Program
- Campsites, Cabins & Lodging
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Pavilions and Shelter Rentals
- Playgrounds
- Showers (Accessible)
- Snowmobiling
- Snowshoeing/X-Country Skiing
- Swimming Beach