Watkins Glen and the surrounding Finger Lakes region offer a mix of seasonal glamping and traditional camping options from May to October. Temperatures range from lows near 45°F in spring to highs around 82°F in summer, with higher humidity levels in July and August. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 800-1,200 feet, with terrain characterized by rolling hills, hardwood forests, and access to numerous waterways.
What to do
Explore gorge trails: At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, visitors can experience the dramatic gorge directly from their campsite. "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," notes Deb S. The park features 19 waterfalls along well-maintained stone pathways.
Visit the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania: Just an hour from Big Flats, this natural attraction provides a day trip option for campers. "PA Grand Canyon! Beautiful!!!! Go for the day and take hike! Plan on many steps though!!!" shares Amanda H. from Hills Creek State Park. The canyon offers both challenging and family-friendly trail options.
Swimming in natural settings: Robert H. Treman State Park Campground features a unique swimming area at the base of a waterfall. "You can swim in the waterfall area here. Need I say more? Actually, it can be VERY busy in the summer time in the swimming area, making it difficult to find your own 'space,'" advises Matt G. The park also offers a designated diving board into the swimming hole.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many glamping options near Big Flats provide separation between accommodations. "The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between," notes Laura L. about Watkins Glen. "The campsites are great and are all tree lined giving to a bit of privacy. As much as you get in campgrounds," adds Lindsay C.
Clean, modern facilities: Ferenbaugh Campground receives consistent praise for its maintenance. "Very clean campground. Bathrooms were clean. Had a pool and playground. Friendly staff," reports Sara H. For glampers seeking comfort, this provides essential amenities without sacrificing the outdoor experience.
Convenient location: Many campers appreciate how the area serves as a hub for regional exploration. "The park was clean and the staff was friendly. It was close to town, with a park and swimming beach across the street," shares Stacy E. about Clute Park. This makes glamping near Big Flats, New York practical for those wanting to combine outdoor stays with day trips.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping accommodations close during winter months. "This campground keeps growing. I've camped here for 20+ years and they have always been great," notes Amy T. about Watkins Glen / Corning KOA, which operates from mid-April through late October, similar to most area glamping sites.
Varied site conditions: Sites range from open fields to wooded areas, impacting shade and privacy. "Site 54 at Robert H Treman is very large, flat, nonelectric and well shaded with areas of sun. A long walk to the restroom. The new loop is a large field--we got one of the few shady sites in the new loop," describes one camper.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have issues with water quality. "Make sure you use a water filter, there was a lot of sediment in the water when we were there," warns Michael H. about Ferenbaugh Campground, showing photos of a filter after just four days of use.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly attractions: Camp Bell Campground caters to families with various activities. "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," notes Nick O. Many glamping sites also offer programming specifically for children.
Playgrounds and pools: Family-oriented amenities are common at campgrounds in the region. "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," shares Lindsay C. about Watkins Glen State Park, making it suitable for families with varying activity levels.
Educational programs: Several parks offer learning opportunities for children. "The rangers offer educational programs that are free of charge!" mentions Amanda H. These programs typically focus on local wildlife, plant identification, and conservation practices, adding educational value to glamping trips.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: RV glamping requires attention to site specifications. "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," warns Laura L., suggesting careful navigation for larger vehicles.
Full hookup availability: Harpy Hollow and other glamping sites offer varying levels of amenities. "The hosts were lovely and very sweet, and created a wonderful place to stay off-grid," shares Lara Star M. For RVers requiring full hookups, it's essential to verify site specifications when booking glamping accommodations near Big Flats.
Levelness considerations: Some glamping sites present challenges for larger units. "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," notes Victoria about Robert H. Treman State Park, highlighting the importance of researching site conditions before arrival.
