Places to Camp near Ithaca, NY
Camping near Ithaca, New York
Ithaca, New York, nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning waterfalls, lush forests, and scenic trails, it's no wonder that camping near Ithaca is a popular activity. Whether you're looking for a rustic experience or a campground with all the amenities, Ithaca has something to offer for every type of camper.
From the serene Watkins Glen State Park Campground to the family-friendly Watkins Glen / Corning KOA, the campgrounds around Ithaca provide a variety of experiences. In this guide, we'll explore what to do, what campers like, what you should know, tips for camping with families, and tips from RVers to help you make the most of your camping trip near Ithaca.
What to Do
Camping near Ithaca offers a plethora of activities that cater to all interests. From hiking and paddleboarding to exploring waterfalls and visiting nearby attractions, there's no shortage of things to do.
One of the highlights is the access to Watkins Glen, where you can hike directly from Watkins Glen State Park Campground. As Mea H. mentions, "The access to Watkins Glen! My site was in Loop D (Onondaga Village) which has a direct hiking trail to the trail along Watkins Glen!" Read more.
Another must-visit is the Robert H. Treman State Park Campground, known for its beautiful gorges and hiking trails. Carlyne F. shares, "There are endless waterfalls, hiking trails, fishing holes, and bird watching opportunities." Read more.
For those who enjoy water activities, Seneca Lake near Watkins Glen State Park Campground is perfect for paddleboarding and boating. Mea H. recommends, "We went paddleboarding. We put in at a boat launch at the very southeastern corner of the lake near Seneca Lake Kayak." Read more.
What Campers Like
Campers appreciate the natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and the variety of activities available at the campgrounds near Ithaca. Many reviews highlight the cleanliness and convenience of the campgrounds.
Sara B. praises Watkins Glen State Park Campground, saying, "The sites aren't private, but are well kept, as are the bathrooms/showers." Read more.
At Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground, Chelsi S. notes, "Lovely campground was clean and well spaced between the sights. The facilities were clean and well stocked." Read more.
Campers also enjoy the peaceful and quiet atmosphere at Blueberry Patch Campground. Casey L. shares, "It was very quiet and peaceful, with only a few of the sites being occupied." Read more.
What You Should Know
While camping near Ithaca offers many benefits, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience. Some campgrounds have limited amenities, and it's important to be prepared.
At Fillmore Glen State Park Campground, Jeff A. mentions, "Nice Campground very quiet due to lots of rain this year I can see where it might get crowded in the fields." Read more.
For those staying at Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, LATHA S. advises, "The sites were also very close to each other and rather shallow, thereby limiting privacy." Read more.
It's also important to note that some campgrounds, like Blueberry Patch Campground, do not have water hookups. Gary G. warns, "No water, electric or dump station. Vault toilets." Read more.
Tips for Camping with Families
Camping with families near Ithaca can be a rewarding experience with the right preparation. Many campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.
The Watkins Glen / Corning KOA is a great option for families, with amenities like an indoor/outdoor pool, pirate ship, and playground. Nicole S. shares, "It had a lot of things to do indoor/outdoor pool, pirate ship, slide, big pillow, waterside, golf and rock wall." Read more.
At Robert H. Treman State Park Campground, Carl G. highlights the new playgrounds, saying, "2 new large playgrounds." Read more.
For a quieter family experience, Blueberry Patch Campground offers spacious and private sites. John T. notes, "The campsite was spacious and private." Read more.
Tips from RVers
RVers will find several campgrounds near Ithaca that cater to their needs, with amenities like electric hookups, sanitary dumps, and spacious sites.
At Watkins Glen / Corning KOA, George L. mentions, "Restrooms are modern clean and adequate. WiFi was good on a fall weekend with park pretty full." Read more.
For those staying at Fillmore Glen State Park Campground, Glenn S. shares, "Nice relaxing time." Read more.
RVers should also consider Blueberry Patch Campground for a more rustic experience. Gary G. advises, "The FS sure says this fits RVs up to 24 ft. Most sites could fit much larger rigs, but the loop road is narrow and could be a problem turning." Read more.
Camping near Ithaca, New York, offers a diverse range of experiences, from serene and rustic to family-friendly and activity-packed. With its natural beauty and variety of campgrounds, it's an ideal destination for campers of all types.