Cazenovia is situated in the Finger Lakes region of central New York, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,300 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer camping temperatures typically ranging from 60-85°F. Winter camping opportunities exist, but most campgrounds close by mid-October and reopen in late April or early May when average daytime temperatures reach the 60s.
What to do
Kayaking at Green Lakes: The distinctive meromictic lakes at Green Lakes State Park Campground offer unique paddling opportunities where kayak rentals cost $7 per hour. "You can rent a kayak and enjoy the beautiful lake," confirms camper Cindy H., while Kenneth S. notes the water is "Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands."
Fishing at Oneida Lake: Shore fishing opportunities abound at Oneida Shores County Park where a gravel peninsula provides easy access. "Campground is recently paved. Lots of geese, therefore lots of goose poop. Sites are small and close together. Nice wooded setting on the lake," reports Shawn, highlighting the lakefront access.
Playground activities: Multiple dog-friendly campgrounds near Cazenovia feature upgraded play areas for children. "Great playgrounds. Bathrooms and showers were very clean," notes Sara H. about Green Lakes, while Joe D. mentions, "The kids love to hang out at the splash pad and the state recently revamped some of the playgrounds" at Verona Beach State Park.
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Verona Beach State Park Campground offers recently upgraded washroom facilities. Rachelle W. describes, "Awesome campground. Clean bathhouses were nice. Wood was for sale by camp host at 50 cents a piece." The Villages at Turning Stone similarly impresses with "bathrooms [that] are very modern and well stocked," according to Michael O.
Shuttle service to entertainment: The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone provides 24-hour shuttles to nearby entertainment options. "Convenient to the highway with 24 hour shuttles to the casino 5 minutes away, yet quiet and beautifully maintained," reports April L., while Jessica D. adds, "One of my favorite campgrounds in NY. Its so peaceful at night. My favorite time to come is August during the meteor showers."
Waterfront camping spots: Several pet-accommodating campgrounds near Cazenovia offer waterfront sites. Tate T. at Verona Beach appreciates that "We stayed through this weekend and had a great time and got to see some awesome sunsets." At Oneida Shores County Park, Margaret C. observes, "While we were camping in tents on the lakefront, they brought their camper and were in the RV side of the campground."
What you should know
Primitive camping rules: Morgan Hill State Forest Dispersed offers free camping but requires understanding of regulations. Janet R. explains, "You do not camp here at these parking lots, but from here can backpack in to the woods on the Onondaga Trail or connecting trails... you can do LNT dispersed camping as long as you follow the state forest camping rules... not setting up camp within 150 of a stream or other body or water."
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds close by early October. Green Lakes operates "May 13 to October 9" while Oneida Shores runs "April 25 to October 13." Whispering Woods Campground maintains a similar schedule with "April 28 to October 15."
Varying pet policies: Dog-friendly campgrounds near Cazenovia often have specific restrictions. While most sites welcome pets, swimming areas generally prohibit dogs. Always verify current rabies vaccination requirements, as most facilities mandate documentation.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with varied activities: Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area provides multiple recreation options. Janet R. explains it has "15 drive-in campsites widely spaced and set into the woods... a small boat launch meant for canoes and kayaks and small non motorized fishing boats, alongside a gravel peninsula for shore fishing."
Consider bathroom proximity: When selecting sites with children, note bathroom locations. Nicole V. at Oneida Shores County Park mentions, "There are mens and womens bathrooms, each with multiple stalls. Showers are available but a bit far from the actual campground."
Check for accessible features: Some campgrounds provide ADA accommodations. Janet R. notes at Morgan Hill Forest, "there are two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits... the picnic tables and cement pad around the fireplace can certainly accommodate wheelchairs."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: The Villages at Turning Stone RV Park provides complete services for larger rigs. Boomer B. notes, "Spacious FHU sites. Pull thru and back ins," while Michael O. describes, "All sites are full hookups (i think) and paved. Definitely geared towards the RV or trailer crowd."
Site levelness varies: Check site descriptions for grade information before booking. Chelsea B. shares about Green Lakes, "The sites are good, level, and the campsite is pretty" though notes shower quality concerns.
Seasonal maintenance awareness: RVers should note that spring camping may encounter maintenance operations. Chelsea B. recounts, "They spent at least 5-6 hours the Monday we were here mowing around our campsite, coming within inches of our power and Starlink cords."
