Camping close to Bath, New York offers access to the Finger Lakes region's mixed hardwood forests and rolling hills. The area sits at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet, creating cooler summer nights than surrounding lowlands. Most campgrounds open May through October, with July temperatures averaging 80°F days and 60°F nights.
What to do
Hiking the gorge trails: At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, the dramatic gorge features 19 waterfalls along stone walkways. "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful. The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. The gorge trail is a MUST," notes Laura L. The park also offers trails beyond the famous gorge path.
Swimming in natural settings: Stony Brook State Park Campground offers a unique swimming experience in their natural pool carved from the mountain. "My favorite part about this park has to be their natural pool. It's beautiful and so refreshing," shares Olivia R. The park features several small waterfalls and pools suitable for cooling off.
Fishing opportunities: Ontario County Park provides fishing access without requiring motorized boats. "Stunning overlook that is breathtaking. Hiking, bike trails, fishing pond, playground, open fields for sports, much more!" according to Sarah C. The park maintains a stocked pond accessible to campers.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms at Watkins Glen State Park. "Friendly staff, good patrols at night to keep people from being too noisy, tent sites are nice and shaded. Some of the shower houses are better than others," explains Lori F. Most campgrounds in the region offer shower facilities with hot water.
Family activities: Camp Bell Campground provides organized events throughout the camping season. "Nice place. Has plenty of close by attractions. Kids enjoyed the the big playground and mini arcade. Has a large pool for swimming and fun activities," says Nick O. Many campsites include playgrounds and scheduled weekend activities.
Spacious campsites: Ferenbaugh Campground offers different camping experiences depending on your preference. "Lots of Trees and Shade OR Plenty of Grass and Sun; whichever is your preference, they have you covered! Pool, Fishing Pond, Pavillion with Bands and Activities, Mini Golf, Camp Store," reports Nicole D.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds may have water quality issues. At Ferenbaugh Campground, campers note: "Make sure you use a water filter, there was a lot of sediment in the water when we were there." Another camper added, "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."
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping close to Bath, New York operates seasonally. Letchworth State Park Campground, like most in the region, is open "May 6 to October 16" according to park information. Autumn brings spectacular foliage but requires warmer bedding.
Road noise: Some campsites may experience road noise. At Kanakadea Park, one camper observed: "Very good location, however there isn't much shade and the main road is close to our camp site so it's not very quiet during the day."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playground options: Ontario County Park offers excellent family amenities. "Great campground for kids, events, and hiking. Plenty of room on each site for whatever you need. Multiple playgrounds which are clean & well maintained," notes Jonathan G. Most family-oriented campgrounds include play areas.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife spotting times. "Deer, chipmunks and rabbits will say hi in the early and late hours," shares Dayne B. from Ontario County Park. Kids can often observe small wildlife from campsites.
Educational hiking: When camping with children, consider the difficulty levels of trails. At Watkins Glen, one camper advises: "I would describe the hikes as moderately difficult. The main one has a lot of steps but lots of walkway in between them so it's not just up up up more steps. There are a total of 19 waterfalls on your way up, all of them absolutely beautiful."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV campers should prepare for uneven sites at some campgrounds. "Make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level," suggests one camper about Ontario County Park. Many campgrounds in the region were developed before larger RVs became common.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have tight roads for larger RVs. At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, Laura L. observed: "We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves." Advanced planning for arrival routes helps avoid difficult turns.
Full hookup availability: For luxury glamping close to Bath, New York, look for sites with complete services. Camp Bell Campground offers "30/50 amp sites, also have full hook ups and some primitive sites," according to a seasonal camper. Several campgrounds offer sanitary dump stations even when full hookups aren't available.
