RV camping near Canisteo, New York provides access to the western portion of the Finger Lakes region, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 feet across rolling hills and valleys. Campgrounds in this area typically remain open from April through October, with most closing for the winter months due to snowfall that averages 60-80 inches annually. The region contains multiple state parks and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius of Canisteo.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: Letchworth State Park, 40 minutes north of Canisteo, offers numerous waterfall viewing opportunities. "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. from Letchworth State Park Campground.
Winery tours: Multiple campgrounds provide easy access to Finger Lakes wine country. At Finger Lakes RV Resort, Matt S. reports: "Easy drive to Watkins Glen, Lake Seneca, Ithaca, and the greater Finger Lakes region... Walking paths from the campground to two different wineries."
Local festivals: Small towns surrounding Canisteo host seasonal events. "Went into town on Sunday for a market street festival which was small given COVID guidelines but nice," writes Jan F. about visiting Cuba, NY while staying at Maple Lane RV Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness receives consistent praise from RVers. "The bath house is immaculate and rivals those at Fort Wilderness Resort," notes Craig F. about Finger Lakes Campground. At Letchworth, another camper mentioned, "The bathrooms are practically luxurious by most camping standards, with single-use restroom/showers available at all hours."
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer larger-than-average sites. Paul B. describes Finger Lakes Campground as having "Good size sites, mostly back-in, some gravel and some grass." Similarly at Hickory Hill Camping Resort, reviewers note level sites with adequate spacing between neighbors.
Trash service: Daily trash collection is available at select campgrounds. Matt S. reports "Daily trash and recycling pick-up from each site" at Finger Lakes RV Resort, a convenience that stands out compared to other regional parks.
What you should know
Limited cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. Paul B. notes "Very limited to non existent cell service" at Finger Lakes Campground, marking it as the reason for a 4-star rather than 5-star review.
Reservation requirements: Booking ahead is essential, particularly for Letchworth State Park Campground where Harry H. advises: "This is a popular park so make reservations." Most campgrounds in the region fill completely during summer weekends and fall foliage season.
Variable road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful navigation. At Lakeview Campsites, Marty A. mentions a "Gravel inclined access road that may not be for new RV owners." Similarly, smaller campgrounds like Jones Pond note "You will need a high clearance vehicle to access site 3-6 due to a rough, poorly maintained jeep road."
Tips for camping with families
Free amenities: Some campgrounds include activities at no extra cost. At Hickory Hill Camping Resort, Ame W. notes "A lot of free amenities. Fun for families of all ages." Anne O. adds specifics: "pools, playgrounds, go carts, ice cream shop along with a well stocked camp store."
Swimming options: Pools are available at select campgrounds but natural swimming is limited. "Great hikes in this area as well as a nice swimming hole," mentions Meag F. about facilities at Letchworth, while Amy T. notes Hickory Hill has "multiple pools, a sprayground, mini golf, crafts."
Playground access: Children's play areas receive specific mention at multiple locations. Shari G. describes Letchworth's amenities: "Within a short walk were many hiking trails, an old-school fitness path, and a stellar playground where anyone under 9 years of age should get a great workout."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers consistently mention the importance of selecting appropriate sites. At Summer Haven, Larry notes "Getting into the site was a challenge, but doable with a 16 foot Basecamp," highlighting the need to match rig size to available space.
Electrical connections: Amperage varies between campgrounds and specific sites. Larry cautions about Summer Haven: "The owners description noted a 50 amp hookup which was available, but 30 amp was not. They did have a 120v surge protector on site, and we fortunately had an extension cord."
Seasonal services: Water hookup availability changes seasonally at some locations. "This early in the season water was not available, but electricity was," notes a Spring visitor to Summer Haven, indicating the need to check on specific hookup availability for early or late season camping near Canisteo.
