Camping options surround Addison, New York, with most sites operating from May through October. The area sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation in the Southern Tier region, where summer temperatures average 70-80°F during peak camping months. Fall brings cooler temperatures in the 50s and colorful foliage displays throughout the region's mixed hardwood forests.
What to do
Hiking the gorge trails: At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, campers can explore the park's famous gorge with 19 waterfalls. "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful. The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves. The gorge trail is a MUST," writes Laura L.
Swimming in natural pools: Natural swimming areas provide relief during hot summer days. "I have been here multiple times and it is a great day trip spot. We figured this time we can stay at the campsites and give it a try," notes Kasey C. about Stony Brook State Park Campground. "My favorite part about this park has to be their natural pool. It's beautiful and so refreshing."
Wine tasting: The Finger Lakes region surrounding Addison is known for its wineries. "Seneca lake is a short drive away for great fishing, kayaking and swimming. Also a short Drive away is a Farm Sanctuary that my son very much enjoyed," shares Jennifer W. The area's glamping options near Addison provide convenient access to these attractions while offering more comfort than traditional tent camping.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Many campgrounds near Addison offer secluded sites. "I stay here usually once or twice a year and spend my weekends hiking the various gorge trails nearby. Tent camping is nice here. The sites are good sized, they offer cabins as well. The bathhouses are clean and well lit at night," notes Deb S. about Watkins Glen State Park.
Clean facilities: Camp Bell Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "We stayed in the cabins. Bathrooms were clean. Had a pool and playground. Friendly staff," reports Sara H. This campground offers glamping experiences close to Addison, New York with cabins that provide more comfort than traditional tent sites.
Family activities: Bucktail Camping Resort focuses on entertainment for children. "Two playgrounds, a pool, two jumping pillows, mini train, carousel, and activities. Good for bike riding although hilly," writes one reviewer. "Very clean facilities, lots for kids to do despite Covid. We always get a site on the outside of the main circle by the tower slide."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the Addison area operate from May through October. "We've gone there multiple times and always enjoyed it. Lots of activities for kids and near by attractions. They are within a 20 minute drive to Watkins Glen race way and do not raise prices for camping that weekend," explains Robyn M.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have issues with water quality. At Ferenbaugh Campground, one camper notes: "Make sure you use a water filter, there was a lot of sediment in the water when we were there. See pictures of 4 days on a new cartridge." Another mentions: "The only bad comment I would make is there water is very smelly and brown. I actually bought a dual stage water filter and change it every two weeks."
Campsite selection matters: Different loops offer varied experiences. "Dogs are allowed but they are not allowed on the gorge trail. I'm ok with this I just wish I had known before we got there," shares Lindsay C. "The campsites are great and are all tree lined giving to a bit of privacy. As much as you get in campgrounds."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas. "There is a huge new playground for the kids and lots of area to walk around the loops if you don't want to hike the gorge trail," recommends Lindsay C. "The new playground is new and very nice. The small one is mainly two very big playsets (pirate ship and castle). My kids enjoyed both."
Consider cabin options: For luxury glamping close to Addison, New York, cabins offer comfort with nature access. At Robert H. Treman State Park Campground, "there are cabins, tents and rv sites, some of which are handicapped accessible. Ithaca is also packed with wineries and the finger lakes. A great place to visit!"
Swimming opportunities: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas. "This was a total surprise when we stayed at this site. We thought we were going to go to another park to camp but this one was so nice we ended up staying... Great water for older kids that can swim. Lots of hiking trails that were along the gorge with water scenic views," shares Kelly J.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Clute Park and Campground, location compensates for tight spacing. "The best thing about this park is location, location, location! Situated on the bottom of Seneca Lake you are just a short walk to downtown and Watkins Glen State Park. We did have a large pull through site that accommodated our 40ft RV," says Cheryl W.
Road conditions: Some campground roads present challenges. "Beautiful camp site with electricity. Close to lots of trails," notes James about Watkins Glen, while Laura L. adds: "The roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves."
Hookup availability: Check which sites offer full hookups. "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," cautions Victoria about Robert H. Treman State Park Campground. When seeking glamping experiences around Addison, look for sites offering reliable electric service for climate control systems.
