Cabins near Dresden, New York provide access to the scenic Finger Lakes region, where deep glacial lakes stretch across central New York state with elevations ranging from 382 to 470 feet above sea level. The area receives an average of 37 inches of precipitation annually, creating lush forests and waterside camping environments. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while fall brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage displays.
What to do
Hiking the gorge trails: At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, trails range from easy walks to moderate climbs with 19 waterfalls along the route. "The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!" notes a visitor who stayed with their 30-foot motorhome despite the tight roads and curves within the campground.
Military history exploration: Sampson State Park Campground features a unique naval museum. "It was a Naval training base during WWII... It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era," explains one camper. The historical site offers both recreational opportunities and educational value about the area's military significance.
Swimming and water activities: Taughannock Falls State Park Campground offers a designated swimming area with a dock. "The swimming area goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of," says one reviewer who found the campground "very walkable to the swimming area" and appreciated the manageable hiking trails to the waterfall.
Wine tasting excursions: Sned Acres Campground provides convenient access to wineries in the region. "Conveniently located close to lots of wineries," mentions a first-time camper who appreciated the helpful staff. The Finger Lakes wine region features dozens of wineries within driving distance of Dresden.
What campers like
Lakeside views and accessibility: At Sampson State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the waterfront location. "Beautiful lakefront playground, camp store, hiking trails (many wheelchair friendly) and boating. This campground is also dog friendly," notes one camper who valued the proximity to Geneva, just 15 minutes away.
Clean facilities: Cayuga Lake State Park Campground maintains well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. "Sites were very spacious! Great camping location with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy or just sit and enjoy the peace," reports a visitor who stayed along the tree line in the 800 loop area of the campground.
Spacious campsites: Many cabins offer adequate separation from neighbors. "Most sites are pretty spacious. Pets allowed in some loops," describes a repeat visitor to Sampson State Park, who also highlighted amenities like "ice cream and concessions stand, arcade room, outdoor movie screen, nice playgrounds" and "paved loops - good for bikes and scooters."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Junius Ponds Cabins and Campgrounds offers numerous activities for children. "Lots to do for kids. Friendly staff and clean facilities. Nice pool and playgrounds," shares a regular camper who enjoys the family-oriented environment.
What you should know
Booking requirements: Cabin reservations at most locations require advance planning, especially during summer months. At Flint Creek Campgrounds, "there are two small cabins to rent along with a couple of family tent sites," according to a visitor who appreciated that the campground store had "very reasonable prices and accepts credit cards."
Cell service limitations: Some camping areas have limited connectivity. At Flint Creek Campgrounds, a camper warns: "Don't expect any cell phone service. I've had friends who climbed up on top of their RV and still, no signal. It's out in the middle of nowhere, hard to find but extremely worth it."
Water and electric logistics: Some campgrounds have specific utility setups for cabins and RV sites. "Electric service boxes are shared in-between sites. This could pose an issue if your power cord is not long enough," notes a repeat visitor to Sampson State Park, adding that "there is only one source for water fill up" which "could end up being a very very long wait if you arrive at the same time as other campers."
Pet restrictions: Rules for pets in cabins vary significantly between parks. Taughannock Falls State Park Campground allows dogs in most areas with some restrictions: "Dogs are allowed but they are not allowed on the gorge trail. I'm ok with this I just wish I had known before we got there," shares one visitor who appreciated the "huge new playground" and tree-lined campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When booking cabins with children, consider proximity to recreation areas. At Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, a camper advises to "be weary that some of the camp sites are closer to playgrounds than they appear on the map," which can be either beneficial or problematic depending on your preference for noise levels.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer learning experiences alongside recreation. "Bring bicycles and definitely go on both visual and audio tours," recommends a visitor to Sampson State Park, referring to the military history exhibits and interpretive trails available throughout the grounds.
Swimming options: Not all water areas are available year-round. "One thing that we were kind of disappointed in, is that the campground pool doesn't open until the end of June," mentions a visitor to Watkins Glen State Park who found alternatives: "Seneca lake is a short drive away for great fishing, kayaking and swimming."
Activity planning: Many campgrounds offer scheduled programming for children. At Flint Creek Campgrounds, families enjoy "activities such as wagon rides, arts and crafts, movie night and various themed weekend events," according to a visitor who found the hosts "super friendly and welcoming" throughout their stay.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When selecting cabin or RV sites, consider specific location factors. "We stayed in the 800 loop along the tree line. Sites were very spacious!" reports a visitor to Cayuga Lake State Park who appreciated the serene environment.
Hookup limitations: Check specific power and water connections before arrival. "Be weary that some of the camp sites are closer to playgrounds than they appear on the map," notes a visitor to Taughannock Falls State Park, who also appreciated that "the campsites are great and are all tree lined giving to a bit of privacy."
Dump station access: Some parks have limited dumping facilities. At Sampson State Park, a camper noted "only 2 dump stations" and warned that "they don't allow pull-in camping. Campers MUST be backed in," which requires planning for RV positioning upon arrival.
