Cabin camping options near Caroline, New York provide access to the region's numerous state parks and natural attractions. Located in the southern portion of the Finger Lakes region at approximately 1,300 feet elevation, this area experiences warm summers and cold, snowy winters with a camping season that typically runs from May through October. Most cabin facilities close during winter months due to snow accumulation and freezing temperatures.
What to do
Waterfall swimming: Robert H. Treman State Park features a natural swimming area beneath a waterfall with diving board. "The swimming area was closed for the season by the time we arrived. I would definitely return," notes one visitor who missed this popular feature.
Hiking trails: Taughannock Falls State Park offers multiple trail options ranging from easy to moderate. "Nice short easy hike," reports one visitor, while another adds, "The falls trails were all well defined and excellent for a beginner, moderate hiker. More advanced trails were also offered."
Fishing opportunities: Many cabins provide access to nearby fishing spots. At Pinecreek Campground, visitors enjoy "Catch and Release Pond was lots of fun" according to a recent review, making it suitable for novice anglers.
Wine tasting: The proximity to Finger Lakes wine region creates additional recreation options. A Buttermilk Falls visitor notes, "Location in the Finger Lakes region makes it a good base camp for winery tours."
What campers like
Privacy levels vary: While the existing description mentions parks with grouped cabins, other locations offer more seclusion. At Round Top Retreat, a visitor describes, "The yard is surrounded by wild berry bushes and every year the kids walk up the lane and pick beautiful wildflower bouquets for me."
Natural swimming: Swimming areas are a highlight for summer visitors. Fillmore Glen State Park Campground provides "a spring fed swimming area" that one camper describes as "cool but refreshing."
Proximity to towns: Many cabin locations offer convenience to nearby communities. Watkins Glen State Park Campground is "close to downtown Watkins Glen with lots of restaurants," according to a visitor, making supply runs practical.
Cabin construction: Some cabins are grouped together while others stand alone. A Fillmore Glen visitor notes that "for the less adventurous there are fully serviced cabins available," indicating varying levels of amenities between parks.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most parks close cabins between late October and early May. Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground operates "May 20 to October 10" according to reservation information.
Bathroom quality varies: Facilities range from rustic to modern. A Taughannock Falls visitor reports, "The bathrooms are fairly clean and well maintained. For washing dishes there is a sink in each bathroom."
Site terrain: Some cabin areas have challenging access roads. A Buttermilk Falls visitor notes, "The hill you climb to the camp sites is riddled with pot holes," indicating potential access challenges.
Water sources: Water availability differs between locations. Round Top Retreat requires campers to use "the water pump" which one reviewer calls "awesome," suggesting a more rustic experience than parks with modern plumbing.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks have play equipment for children. Fillmore Glen State Park Campground provides "playgrounds and areas for various sports" according to a visitor, making it suitable for active children.
Swimming options: Water features vary by location. Robert H. Treman features "Beautiful waterfall swimming pool is very cold, but great on a hot day," notes one camper.
Open space considerations: Some campgrounds provide more room for children to play. At Pinecreek, sites include "a large grassy area for setting up our outside chairs and picnic table," providing space for family activities.
Activity scheduling: Weekday visits often mean fewer crowds. Fillmore Glen offers "reduced rate for your second night" midweek, making extended family stays more economical.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some cabin and RV sites require adjustment. At Watkins Glen / Corning KOA, a visitor found "a concrete pad and nice fire ring in our site," indicating improved site preparation.
Hookup positions: Electrical connections require planning. Taughannock Falls campers advise to "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords."
Site size limitations: Not all parks accommodate larger units. Robert H. Treman has "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers."
Road conditions: Interior roads vary in quality. At Pinecreek, visitors warn roads "are in dire need of grading and new gravel. Be careful!"
