Glamping near Phelps, New York offers multiple accommodation options throughout the Finger Lakes region, with elevation ranges between 580-1,200 feet providing varied terrain for campers. Most upscale camping facilities in this area maintain seasonal operations from mid-April through mid-October, with the majority closing after Columbus Day weekend due to increasingly cold overnight temperatures. Weather conditions typically range from 45-80°F during the primary camping season.
What to do
Water activities at Sampson State Park: Located on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake, this park offers excellent swimming beaches and boat launches. "The marina convenience store with pontoon boat rentals" provides easy access to water recreation, according to Amanda K. The park also features "fishing" opportunities along the lakefront with "very clean" water conditions.
Explore historical sites: Sampson State Park Campground includes a military museum that showcases the area's naval history. Brian O. notes it "was a Naval training base during WWII" and "has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era." Kate W. adds that visitors should "definitely go on both visual and audio tours" to fully experience the historical aspects.
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds provide paved roads ideal for cycling. At Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill, Sarah C. highlights "hiking, bike trails, fishing pond, playground, open fields for sports," making it versatile for multiple outdoor activities. The park also features "stunning overlook that is breathtaking" with valley views particularly impressive during fall.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate secluded camping spaces surrounded by trees. Julie S. mentions that at Sned Acres Campground, "Our two-year-old adored playing on the playground just 15' or so from our campsite and we particularly loved checking out our beautiful lake view while we sat around the campfire." The campground offers a balance of open play areas and waterfront views.
Recreational amenities: Canandaigua-Rochester KOA provides extensive recreation options beyond standard camping. Greg S. notes, "Our 3 and 5 year olds really enjoyed the jump pad and woods obstacles." Jenise P. adds, "I'm a birder and my tent site here is next to a little grove of trees where I counted 12 species of birds this morning."
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned across reviews is the cleanliness of bathrooms and showers. At Junius Ponds Cabins and Campground, Jim C. notes it has "Clean facilities. Most sites can accommodate large rigs with full hookups." Gib D. adds the place is "Well taken care of... Plenty of space between sites. Nice pool and games to play."
What you should know
Seasonal population differences: Many campgrounds have significant seasonal camper populations. At Junius Ponds Cabins and Campgrounds, Kimberlee P. notes "most of the sites are for seasonal guests so it can be difficult to get a reservation." Ryan D. adds, "A would be beautiful campground is over run with seasonal campers and their golf carts."
Weather considerations: Spring camping can present challenges due to precipitation. Amy T. mentions that at Cheerful Valley Campground, "The spring can be tricky with the rain, some sites can get messy." Planning for potential wet conditions is important, especially during April and May.
Reservation requirements: Advance planning is essential, particularly for holiday weekends. Jim C. advises "Reservations recommended especially during summer weekends" at Junius Ponds. Most campgrounds require booking 2-6 months ahead for prime summer dates, with holiday weekends often filling 6-8 months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When booking sites with children, consider proximity to play areas. At Lake Bluff RV Park, Sara H. emphasizes they have "a nice game room pool, air hockey, video games. There is a change machine too," providing indoor entertainment options during inclement weather.
Water-based recreation: Watkins Glen State Park Campground offers family-friendly swimming options. Laura L. reports "The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between" and "the gorge trail is a MUST." Nearby attractions include hiking trails and natural formations that engage children of all ages.
Animal encounters: Many campgrounds feature wildlife viewing opportunities. At Ontario County Park, Dayne B. notes "Deer, chipmunks and rabbits will say hi in the early and late hours," providing natural wildlife viewing opportunities for children without leaving the campsite.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Electric hookups at some parks require preparation. Amanda K. notes at Sampson State Park, "Electric service boxes are shared in-between sites. This could pose an issue if your power cord is not long enough." Additionally, "There is only source for water fill up. This could end up being a very very long wait."
Site selection for larger rigs: At Cayuga Lake State Park Campground, Jonathan G. recommends to "make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level." Kristine B. adds that at Junius Ponds they "had a oversized, long pull through available (site 88) that made entering and exiting the site nice and easy."
Accessibility factors: Roads within some parks present challenges for larger RVs. Meg notes that tent camping at Cayuga Lake State Park "felt like we were camping in a neighborhood backyard" with limited privacy between sites. Laura L. found that at Watkins Glen "the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves" in their 30-foot motorhome.
