Cabin camping near Auburn, New York provides access to diverse overnight accommodations within the Finger Lakes region. Situated at elevations ranging from 400-900 feet above sea level, most cabin sites experience a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Seasonal operating periods typically run from April through mid-November, with most parks closing cabins during winter months due to freezing temperatures.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: Watkins Glen State Park Campground offers a large public swimming pool during summer months. "The bathrooms are modern, kept very clean, and the showers are awesome. There are a couple picnic areas/shelters and a gorgeous natural pool with lifeguard," explains a visitor.
Military history exploration: Access the museum at Sampson State Park Campground to learn about its naval training base history. "There is a museum, boat launch, pavilions, and ice cream shop on the camp ground," notes a camper, adding that "maintenance crew starts around 7."
Gorge hiking: Follow the marked trails at Taughannock Falls State Park for waterfall views. A reviewer states, "The gorge hikes are also moderate and invigorating," while another mentions "hiking to the waterfall is very manageable."
What campers like
Waterfront recreation: Cayuga Lake State Park Campground provides direct lake access for boating and fishing. "Nice modern-esque camp site with great views of the lake... On site they have swimming, boat launch, and a playground," reports one visitor.
Private sites: Some loops offer more seclusion than others. At Cayuga Lake, a camper recommends: "We stayed 2 nights at site 1002. I think this site is one of the best in the campground! Very secluded and private."
Seasonal amenities: Sned Acres Campground provides unusual welcome gifts. "They were so helpful as we were first time campers. We loved the friendship bread when we arrived," notes one camper, while another confirms "the friendship bread given to us at check-in was so touching and sweet."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary: Conditions differ significantly between parks. At Green Lakes State Park Campground, "the bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground." However, at Taughannock Falls, a visitor reported "bathrooms were messy, with a couple of toilets not flushed/clogged."
Site privacy concerns: Many campgrounds feature open layouts. At Fillmore Glen State Park, a reviewer observed "camp sites are a little close," while at Cayuga Lake, someone noted "tent camping here felt like we were camping in a neighborhood backyard."
Reservation timing: Weekends fill quickly during summer. For Watkins Glen, a visitor advises: "The campground is popular on weekends (and almost daily in summer) but even with a bit of a crowd absolutely worth it when you're in the Finger Lakes."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Consider proximity to play areas when booking. At Fillmore Glen State Park Campground, "the grassy field is great for kiddos to run-amok and there is a playground at the far end of it so parents can keep an eye on the kids while enjoying time with their friends and family."
Swimming options: Some parks offer unique water features. Fillmore Glen provides "a gorgeous spring fed swimming pool" according to one visitor, who also mentioned "bathrooms are very clean and close to all campsites. Kids loved the park and swimming in the waterfall beach."
Cabin selection: For families needing more space, seek larger cabins. At Sampson State Park, a reviewer noted the cabins "were small but could sleep 3-4 people in one room," while others mentioned newer cabins at different parks.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup positioning: Check the location of utility connections. At Taughannock Falls, a camper warns: "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords."
Water fill logistics: Be prepared for potential delays at Sampson State Park. "There is only source for water fill up. This could end up being a very very long wait if you arrive at the same time as other campers," reports an RVer, who also mentioned: "Only 2 dump stations. They don't allow pull-in camping. Campers MUST be backed in."
Road navigation: Some campgrounds have challenging internal roads. At Watkins Glen, a visitor driving a 30-foot motorhome noted "the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves."
