Cabin accommodations near Avoca, New York sit within the hilly terrain of western New York's Southern Tier region at elevations between 1,000-1,800 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with heavy snowfall, while summer highs typically reach 75-85°F. Several cabin rental options feature water access with creek-side locations that provide cooling relief during humid summer months.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: Stony Brook State Park offers gorge trail access with multiple small waterfalls throughout a moderate hiking route. A visitor noted, "The gorge trail is very busy but you still can enjoy the beautiful waterfalls along with the gorge formation."
Swimming in natural pools: Sugar Creek Glen Campground features unique swimming options in creek pools. One camper reported, "There is a beautiful waterfall and creek in the middle of the campground. We were able to hike and climb up to more falls and swimming holes when the creek level came down one day."
Family-friendly activities: Hickory Hill Camping Resort provides numerous recreational options included in your stay fee. A camper explained, "There is a lot to do at Hickory Hill and everything is included in your site fee. They have multiple pools, a sprayground, mini golf, crafts, clean bathrooms and dog stations throughout the grounds."
Wine tasting tours: The Seneca Lake Wine Trail runs near Watkins Glen State Park Campground, creating convenient access to vineyard tours. A visitor commented, "The Seneca Lake Wine Trail runs right through this area and makes for a fun diversion to your hiking trip!"
What campers like
Shaded cabin sites: Camp Bell Campground offers wooded cabin areas that maintain cooler temperatures. According to one visitor, "We stayed in the cabins. Bathrooms were clean. Had a pool and playground. Friendly staff."
Natural swimming features: Stony Brook State Park Campground includes a distinctive swimming area carved from stone. One camper mentioned, "This park is beautiful and has a unique swimming area- a 'pool' carved from the mountain!"
Family event spaces: Ontario County Park provides gathering areas for larger family functions. A reviewer noted, "Numerous pavilions that are wonderful for parties or weddings. Stunning overlook that is breathtaking (also great for weddings)."
Fall foliage viewing: Watkins Glen offers exceptional autumn color displays. One visitor reported, "The state park campground is like a postcard, especially in fall."
What you should know
Weather impacts: Sugar Creek Glen Campground sometimes experiences access issues during heavy rain. A camper stated, "Unfortunately it stormed the night we were there and the river flooded over the road, so it was tough getting the truck out to leave the next day."
Vehicle requirements: Some tent sites require creek crossings. According to one review, "Just be advised that if you plan to camp with just a tent you will have to cross a creek to do it, so make sure to have an elevated, AWD/4x4 car or truck to help with the process."
Wildlife encounters: Ontario County Park features regular wildlife activity near cabin areas. A camper observed, "Deer, chipmunks and rabbits will say hi in the early and late hours."
Dog restrictions: Watkins Glen limits dog access on certain trails. One visitor cautioned, "Dogs are allowed but they are not allowed on the gorge trail."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill provides multiple play areas for children. A visitor mentioned, "Great campground for kids, events, and hiking. Multiple playgrounds which are clean & well maintained."
Nature activities: Stony Brook offers natural materials for creative projects. One camper shared, "There is natural clay which my children used to make clay pots which air dried on the grass by our playground."
Cabin selection: Letchworth State Park cabins accommodate various family sizes. A camper noted, "There are also nice cabins to rent scattered around the park."
Evening entertainment: Camp Bell includes special activities after dark. One visitor reported, "Nice place. Has plenty of close by attractions. Kids enjoyed the big playground and mini arcade."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Letchworth State Park Campground requires leveling equipment at some locations. According to one RVer, "Also make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level."
Navigation challenges: Watkins Glen campground roads can be tight for larger vehicles. One camper cautioned, "The roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves."
Power concerns: Sugar Creek Glen has reported voltage issues. A visitor warned, "Be prepared for very low power voltage drops with nothing running in your site."
Seasonal availability: Most cabin rental facilities in the region operate from May through mid-October, with Letchworth State Park's season running "May 6 to October 16."
