Camping options around Campbell, New York range from full-service RV parks to more secluded tent sites along the region's waterways. Located in Steuben County at an elevation of about 1,000 feet, Campbell sits between the southern Finger Lakes region and the northern tier of Pennsylvania, creating a diverse camping environment with seasonal temperatures ranging from warm summers to cold winters. Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through October with limited year-round options.
What to Do
Gorge hiking: Watkins Glen State Park offers dramatic gorge scenery with 19 waterfalls cascading through narrow stone walls. "The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!" notes Laura L. who stayed at Watkins Glen State Park Campground.
Wine tasting: The Finger Lakes wine region surrounds Campbell with dozens of wineries within a 30-minute drive. "Nearby wineries and many wine drinkers camp here along with enjoying beautiful finger Lakes," according to Rob M. who visited Watkins Glen / Corning KOA.
Water recreation: Multiple lakes provide swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. At Hills Creek State Park, "The beach area is small but nice and the concession stand was open every day but Monday," reports Barbara S. who enjoyed the park's facilities.
Racing events: The Watkins Glen International Raceway hosts major events throughout the summer months. One visitor to Camp Bell Campground noted, "We've been here several times and always enjoyed it. Lots of activities for kids and near by attractions. They are with in a 20 minute drive to wakins Glen race way and do not raise prices for camping that weekend."
What Campers Like
Natural swimming areas: Several parks feature swimming in both natural and constructed pools. Sara H. shares about Stony Brook State Park Campground: "I love this place because it is a short drive from our home and we feel we are far away from the city. There is a unique swimming area - a 'pool' carved from the mountain!"
Wooded privacy: Despite being popular destinations, many campgrounds offer secluded sites. Lindsay C. describes Watkins Glen: "The campsites are great and are all tree lined giving to a bit of privacy. As much as you get in campgrounds."
Family activities: Organized events keep children entertained at most parks. Amy T. says about Watkins Glen/Corning KOA: "This campground keeps growing. I've camped here for 20+ years and they have always been great. Lots of activities for kids and families on site and near by."
Pet-friendly options: Most campgrounds accommodate pets with specific rules. Scott H. notes about Camp Bell Campground: "This camp is full of nice people. Lots of dogs are here, and they bark all day and start again at 6:30 am. It's under new management and they are very helpful and knowledgeable people."
What You Should Know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds open in May and close in October. According to the Watkins Glen/Corning KOA listing, they're "Open 4/17/2020 - 10/25/2020," which is typical for the region.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have water issues requiring filtration. Gary V. from Ferenbaugh Campground advises: "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."
Varying site privacy: Campground layouts differ significantly in terms of privacy. Amy H. shares about Watkins Glen/Corning KOA: "Super kind people who work there. Great amenities. Climbing wall, pool, putt putt, giant bouncy thing. Basketball hoop, playground. Lots of cars, lots of people, super crowded and loud."
Weekend crowds: Popular parks fill quickly during summer weekends. Lori F. reports about Watkins Glen: "Friendly staff, good patrols at night to keep people from being too noisy, tent sites are nice and shaded. Some of the shower houses are better than others."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. Dorothy P. from Stony Brook State Park shares: "Affordable, Family friendly, loved the waterfalls. There is natural clay which my children used to make clay pots which air dried on the grass by our playground."
Swimming options: Natural swimming areas offer unique experiences for children. Jennifer W. from Watkins Glen notes: "I have a 7 year old son and he enjoyed every second of this, there is a lot to see and a lot of water to play in! One thing that we were kind of disappointed in, is that the campground pool doesn't open until the end of June."
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer ranger-led programs. At Hills Creek State Park Campground, "The rangers offer educational programs that are free of charge!" according to Amanda H.
Activity variety: Choose campgrounds with diverse recreation options. Nicole S. from Watkins Glen/Corning KOA explains: "It had alot of things to do indoor/outdoor pool, pirate ship, slide, big pillow, waterside, golf and rock wall. The campground and showers were clean."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For larger rigs, research specific loops and sites. Laura L. notes about Watkins Glen: "We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited at some parks. Michael H. from Ferenbaugh Campground advises: "This CG has two distinct sections. Near the entrance is the Pull Through Area. Behind a row of trees there are several sites with full hookups including cable TV and Wi-Fi. The sites are open, reasonably level, and a good size."
Seasonal considerations: Glamping close to Campbell, New York often means dealing with seasonal weather changes. Paul B. from Camp Elmbois mentions: "Owners on site, very friendly, and accommodating. Water and 30a, dump station. Some larger sites to accommodate up to 40' rigs. Reasonable width sites."
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow roads that can be difficult to navigate. Nick O. shares about Camp Bell: "Very clean campsites are very nice plenty of room had a 50 amp and 30 amp service box in a pull through site."
