Camping near Branchport, New York offers diverse terrain options across the Finger Lakes region, with elevations ranging from 750 feet at lake level to over 1,500 feet in surrounding hills. The region's microclimate creates warmer temperatures around the lakes compared to higher elevations, with lake effect conditions often extending the camping season. Many campgrounds throughout the area provide electric service through shared power boxes, requiring campers to plan extension cord lengths accordingly.
What to do
Lake activities at Keuka Lake State Park Campground: The park features excellent paddling conditions for non-motorized boats with several trails connecting camping loops to the boat launch. "Keuka is a great place to do trail runs or takes boat out for the day. The hills provide a nice challenge and the lake makes a perfect paddling spot for both non and motorized boaters," shares Karen G.
Wine country exploration: Finger Lakes RV Resort provides convenient access to the region's renowned wineries. "Located about 1/3 of the way up the eastern side of Seneca Lake, the location provides easy access to the wineries, distilleries, and breweries along the lake," notes Craig F., adding that there are "walking paths from the campground" to two wineries.
Military history: Sampson State Park Campground offers historical exploration opportunities. "It was a Naval training base during WWll. About 45 minutes from Rochester and about hr and half from Syracuse. It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era," explains Brian O.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Flint Creek Campgrounds receives praise for its well-designed layout. "Sites are a good size. No cell service. WiFi only available at the lodge," notes Sparks N., highlighting the unplugged nature of the experience.
Affordability and amenities: Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill combines value with comfort. "This is beautiful, clean and affordable camping near Naples, NY. Lots of trails at the park for hikers, mountain bikers and trail runners. Follow the Finger Lakes Trail all the way into town," writes Danielle P.
Clean facilities: Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite stands out for its free camping with unexpected amenities. "26 camp sites with bathrooms! That flush! Very quiet and the sites aren't on top of each other. People bring their horses. You can drive to to your site and tent camp or camper camp," reports Hannah G.
What you should know
Water access varies: Unlike the lake-front camping described in the existing description, some sites require significant walks to water. At Keuka Lake State Park, "Camp sites are NOT on the lake but a short drive will get you there. Kayaking is so so but wineries are fun," notes Rebecca E.
Site selection matters: Watkins Glen State Park Campground requires careful site selection. "The sites are good sized, they offer cabins as well. The bathhouses are clean and well lit at night. This is definitely a large family area. Expect to hear your neighbors once and a while," advises Deb S.
Cell coverage limitations: Connectivity can be unreliable in the region. At Flint Creek Campgrounds, "dont expect any cell phone service. I've had friends who climbed up on top of their RV and still, no signal. It's out in the middle of nowhere, hard to find but extremely worth it," warns Lela S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Country Charm Campground offers recreation without overwhelming crowds. "If your looking for a smaller, quieter campground and you don't have kids with you then this is the place. The owners are great people and the campground is very clean," notes Ryan D.
Swimming alternatives: When public beaches are crowded, find alternative options. "The hike to the beach wasn't too bad through the woods, with ones being a grassy walking path and the other being a dirt trail through the woods. The beach is typically crowded," advises Joseph B. about Keuka Lake State Park.
Cabin options: For families not ready for tent camping, Ontario County Park offers upgraded facilities. "Cabins are new and ample beds and space. Camper camping is close to everything, but less privacy. Numerous pavilions that are wonderful for parties or weddings," mentions Sarah C.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Back-Achers Campsites near Seneca Lake provides strategic location benefits. "This park is located equidistant between Geneva and Watkins Glenn, NY on the shores of Seneca lake. There are like 40 wineries close by to choose from," notes Whistle P., adding that "The bathrooms appear new and very clean."
Maneuverability challenges: Road conditions and site access can be challenging for larger rigs. At Watkins Glen State Park, "the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," cautions Laura L. about navigating her 30-foot motorhome.
Campground selection for larger RVs: Site leveling can be problematic at some parks. At Ontario County Park, Jonathan G. advises to "make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level," also noting that "the RV sites don't have much shade but the tent sites do."
