Ontario County sits atop the Bristol Hills south of Bloomfield, New York, with many campgrounds nestled at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet. These higher elevations offer cooler nighttime temperatures even during summer months, with typical July highs reaching 82°F and lows dipping to 59°F. The camping season near Bloomfield extends primarily from mid-April through October, with most facilities closing for winter.
What to do
Gorge hiking trails: Letchworth State Park Campground offers dramatic canyon views along 66 miles of hiking trails through terrain often compared to western landscapes. "Bring your hiking shoes & camera. The gorge is spectacular. Try to get to the balloon fest on Memorial Day - and book a flight if you can. Voted Best State Park in the USA," notes Rebecca E.
Fishing opportunities: Creek n Wood campground provides direct access to Mud Creek for anglers. A visitor describes it as "a private campground located in Bloomfield, NY right on the Mud Creek." Nearby Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill features a stocked fishing pond where catches are common. "Ontario County lookout is a quick easy walk away from the campground that is never crazy busy," mentions Peter.
Wine tasting excursions: The region offers numerous wine trail adventures within 30 minutes of most campsites. Country Charm Campground puts you near several vineyards. As Judith B. notes, it's "Conveniently located to allow us to visit family/friends, sightseeing, visiting the many local wineries, and the best ice cream shop, Seneca Farms, in the US!!"
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness consistently ranks high in visitor reviews. At Canandaigua-Rochester KOA, "The campground is clean and well maintained. The staff are ALL so nice. The amenities are plentiful and well cared for," according to Ken B.
Private sites: Many campers appreciate secluded camping spots throughout the region. Keuka Lake State Park Campground offers "Spacious, private campsites, well maintained. Dogs welcome!" says Lynda M. Helen H. adds that "Mature trees surround campsites and separate the loops from each other."
Family entertainment options: Parents value campgrounds with built-in activities. At Conesus Lake Campground, located 25 miles west of Bloomfield, "They have a well stocked camp store, boat rentals, golf cart rentals, an indoor heated pool, jump pad, playgrounds, a hiking trail and frisbee golf," reports Sheri S.
What you should know
Limited shade at some sites: While wooded sites exist, many RV areas offer minimal tree cover. At Canandaigua-Rochester KOA, "Our site was clean and reasonably level but there was no shade at all. We were comfortable, though, after putting out the awning and setting up our portable gazebo," notes Frank M.
Steep terrain challenges: Several campgrounds feature significant elevation changes. Conesus Lake Campground visitor Marissa R. points out, "The hill is a killer! But that problem was solved by renting a golf cart!"
Advance reservations essential: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season (June-August). For Watkins Glen State Park Campground, Deb S. advises, "I stay here usually once or twice a year and spend my weekends hiking the various gorge trails nearby." This popular destination often requires bookings 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming areas perfect for children. At Canandaigua-Rochester KOA, Rich L. shares, "We spent father's day weekend at the KOA. Our kids rented cabins and some used tents and others came for the day. The campground has so much to do between swimming, golf, bike and paddle boat rentals."
Accessible nature walks: Look for campgrounds with shorter trails suitable for younger hikers. Stay Bristol Woodlands provides family-friendly hiking paths. Justine I. notes, "Campground is adorable, you can see a lot of other campers, but the spots are spaced out."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many local campgrounds offer chances to spot native animals. At Canandaigua-Rochester KOA, Jenise P. discovered unexpected birding opportunities: "I'm a birder and my tent site here is next to a little grove of trees where I counted 12 species of birds this morning."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RVers should bring adequate leveling equipment. At Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill, Jonathan G. advises, "make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level."
Hookup variations: Electric service ranges from 30-50 amp depending on location. At Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, Donna C. suggests careful site selection: "Almost all of the sites are not even close to level. Not a big issue with a fifth wheel but a real hassle with a motorcoach."
Larger rig limitations: Big rig owners should research access carefully. For those with larger RVs, Ryan D. recommends Country Charm Campground, where you'll find "a smaller, quieter campground... The owners are great people and the campground is very clean."
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