The region around Burdett, New York sits at approximately 1,200 feet of elevation within the Finger Lakes region, characterized by deep glacial lakes and rolling hills formed during the last ice age. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons see wider temperature fluctuations with occasional frost at either end. Camping options extend beyond traditional tent sites with multiple yurt accommodations available throughout the region.
What to do
Hike the Gorge Trail: At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, campers can explore the famous Gorge Trail featuring 19 waterfalls cascading through narrow stone walls. "The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!" writes Laura L. The trail includes numerous stone steps with walkways between them, making it moderately challenging but accessible for most visitors.
Fish at Sned Acres: Located near Cayuga Lake, Sned Acres Campground provides fishing opportunities in their large pond. "There is a nice pond for fishing. The large pond is nice, there were a lot of campers fishing," notes David M. The pond is stocked seasonally and provides a relaxing activity option just steps from most campsites.
Visit the Military Museum: Sampson State Park features a Naval museum with authentic items from its time as a WWII training base. "It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era," explains Brian O. The museum provides historical context about the region and makes for an educational day trip when not swimming or hiking.
What campers like
Swimming options: Many local campgrounds offer swimming facilities. Taughannock Falls State Park Campground features "a small playground for kids. The bathrooms are fairly clean and well maintained. For washing dishes there is a sink in each bathroom. The campground is very walkable to the swimming area, which goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of," explains Barbara S.
Spacious sites: Campers frequently mention the generous size of sites at several campgrounds. "Our tent site was spacious and secluded nestled in a ton of trees. I was able to hang my hammock up and set up my 6 person tent no problem!" writes Lara Star M. about Harpy Hollow. The natural spacing provides privacy between camping groups.
Location convenience: The area provides easy access to multiple attractions. "The best thing about this park is location, location, location! Situated on the bottom of Seneca Lake you are just a short walk to downtown and Watkins Glen State Park," notes Cheryl W. about Clute Park. Many campgrounds are positioned within 15-30 minutes of major wineries, hiking trails, and lake access points.
What you should know
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water systems. At Ferenbaugh Campground, one camper notes, "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." Another camper confirms, "Make sure you use a water filter, there was a lot of sediment in the water when we were there."
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds in the region fill quickly during peak season (June-August). State parks often open reservations 9 months in advance, while private campgrounds typically begin taking reservations in January. Weekend availability becomes limited by March for most summer dates.
Noise considerations: Proximity to neighbors varies widely between campgrounds. At Watkins Glen/Corning KOA, one visitor observed: "Lots of cars, lots of people, super close campsites. None of the 3 toilets flushed well. Sink was a little clogged. It WAS clean though. They clean and collect trash daily. For a couple with a dog, it was too crowded and loud."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Robert H. Treman State Park Campground offers "bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, a playground and a dump station. There are cabins, tents and rv sites, some of which are handicapped accessible," according to Carlyne F. The flat terrain is ideal for kids learning to ride bikes, with paved paths throughout the camping area.
Swimming with kids: When visiting Watkins Glen with children, Jennifer W. advises: "One thing that we were kind of disappointed in, is that the campground pool doesn't open until the end of June. Seneca lake is a short drive away for great fishing, kayaking and swimming." Plan accordingly if visiting in early summer.
Pet restrictions: While many campgrounds allow pets, restrictions apply. Lindsay C. notes about Watkins Glen, "Dogs are allowed but they are not allowed on the gorge trail. I'm ok with this I just wish I had known before we got there." Check trail restrictions before planning hikes with pets.
Tips from RVers
Electric service hookups: At Sampson State Park, campers should note that "Electric service boxes are shared in-between sites. This could pose an issue if your power cord is not long enough," advises Amanda K. Pack extension cords certified for your amperage needs to ensure connectivity regardless of hookup location.
Campground navigation: Some campgrounds have tight driving conditions for larger rigs. Laura L. explains about Watkins Glen: "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." Arrive during daylight hours for easier navigation.
Site leveling challenges: At Robert Treman State Park, Victoria notes: "Beautiful park. Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers." Consider bringing extra leveling blocks for uneven terrain common throughout the region's hilly geography.
