The Finger Lakes region surrounding Big Flats, New York sits at approximately 850-1,100 feet elevation with a humid continental climate featuring four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F while fall brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage displays throughout the region's rolling hills. Many RV campsites remain open from May through October, with limited year-round options available.
What to do
Waterfall swimming: Several campgrounds offer access to natural swimming areas near waterfalls. At Havana Glen, campers can "hike up to and swim in" the beautiful Eagle Cliff waterfall that's just a short walk from campsites. A reviewer notes this is "a typical Finger Lakes kind of gorge" with "lots of steps to a lovely waterfall."
Lakeside fishing: Park Station Campground provides fishing opportunities in a man-made lake surrounded by hiking trails. According to one camper, "The fishing is great, the amenities are very clean and there is not a bad site in the park." Another adds that there's "plenty of depth for young kids" in the swimming area with lifeguards on duty.
Winery visits: Finger Lakes RV Resort offers unique walking paths directly to neighboring wineries. A reviewer mentioned, "They are bookended by two wineries with walking paths from the campground," making it easy to explore the local wine scene without driving. Another camper appreciated that the "location provides easy access to the wineries, distilleries, and breweries along the lake."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites at Ferenbaugh Campground, which features "two distinct sections" including pull-through sites with full hookups and more secluded wooded sites. According to one reviewer, they offer "Lots of Trees and Shade OR Plenty of Grass and Sun; whichever is your preference, they have you covered!"
Clean facilities: RV campgrounds near Big Flats maintain well-kept bathhouses and amenities. One camper at Finger Lakes RV Resort said the "bath house is immaculate and rivals those at Fort Wilderness Resort," while another noted "everything is in great condition and clean."
Family activities: Hickory Hill Camping Resort includes numerous recreation options in their site fee. A reviewer appreciated that "There is a lot to do at Hickory Hill and everything is included in your site fee," including "multiple pools, a sprayground, mini golf, crafts, clean bathrooms and dog stations throughout the grounds."
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Several campgrounds have reported water quality issues. At Ferenbaugh Campground, a full-timer noted, "The only bad comment I would make is their water is very smelly and brown. I actually bought a dual stage water filter and change it every two weeks." Another camper shared photos showing "a lot of sediment in the water."
Site placement factors: Watkins Glen/Corning KOA has mixed reviews about site placement. One camper warned, "We got lucky and got a good site with shade but most sites are tiny and wide open." Another mentioned being placed "near the dump station and something going on with this makeshift site next to us where around our area smelled of sewer fumes."
Reservation timing: Most RV parks in the region operate seasonally. Pine Valley RV Park & Campground operates from "May 1 to September 30," while Ferenbaugh Campground runs from "May 1 - Oct 30." Park Station Campground has an even shorter season from "Memorial Day to Labor Day." Only Scenic View Campground remains open "All year."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Families with children have several swimming choices at Park Station Campground. A visitor explained, "This campground has a nice small beach area with sand for the kids. Water is very shallow however, so not the best place for swimming for older kids and there is no pool, but there are life guards and plenty of depth for young kids."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Havana Glen, there's "picnicking area with an older playground, but also baseball field and gaga ball area," making it ideal for active kids. Park Station features "a newer and good sized playground in the day visit area."
Budget-friendly activities: Several campgrounds include amenities at no additional cost. One family at Hickory Hill Camping Resort appreciated that "A lot of free amenities. Fun for families of all ages" are included with your stay.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have terrain issues for motorhomes. At Lakeview Campsites, a visitor noted the "Gravel inclined access road that may not be for new RV owners," suggesting experience is needed to navigate the approach.
Electrical service variations: Different campgrounds offer varying electrical hookup options. Park Station provides "power" but doesn't specify amperage, while Pine Valley RV Park has full hookup sites. Campers should confirm specific electrical needs when booking.
RV size compatibility: Lakeview Campsites offers a "Small country quiet and charm" experience but may not accommodate larger RVs with its 20 total sites and challenging access road. For bigger rigs, Ferenbaugh Campground provides "several sites with full hookups including cable TV and Wi-Fi" in their pull-through area.
