Several RV campgrounds near Dresden, New York provide convenient access to the Finger Lakes region, with most nestled between Seneca and Keuka Lakes. The area experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 80°F from June through August and cold winters that often drop below freezing from December through February. Elevation varies from 380 feet at lake level to over 1,000 feet on surrounding hills, affecting both views and access routes.
What to do
Winery access trails: Finger Lakes RV Resort offers walking paths to two local wineries directly from the campground. "Easy maneuverability, great wifi and water pressure, along with level sites make it a great place to stay," writes Craig F., who adds, "they are bookended by two wineries with walking paths from the campground."
Waterfall exploration: Located within 30 minutes of Watkins Glen and Ithaca, campers can visit multiple cascades. "Easy drive to Watkins Glen, Lake Seneca, Ithaca, and the greater Finger Lakes region," reports Matt S. who stayed at Finger Lakes RV Resort, noting it's "a great place to stay for wine and waterfalls."
Hiking opportunities: Finger Lakes — Long Point State Park features trails suitable for day hikes with varying difficulty levels. "Plenty of sites to go around and great hiking. A different feel that typical NY but loved it!" according to Bran P., who recommends taking "a boat ride in the area" to see "Millionaire's Row on the St Lawrence River."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain high cleanliness standards. Matt S. describes Finger Lakes RV Resort's facilities as "in great condition and clean" with "daily trash and recycling pick-up from each site." Another visitor noted their bathhouse "is immaculate and rivals those at Fort Wilderness Resort."
Wide spacing between sites: Lake Bluff RV Park offers generous site dimensions. "Had a large, private plot in drumlin loop. Close to the beach which was very pretty and clean," reports Jay P., who also mentions "hiking trails, kayaking, and lots of other fun activities." Victoria adds, "Large wooded sites are our favorite."
Family-owned atmosphere: Smaller operations provide personalized service. According to Steve A., Finger Lakes RV Resort owners "are cheerful, attentive, and very personable owners who are on-site at almost all times," noting they "drive by each site every morning to collect trash and recycling."
What you should know
Limited amenities at some parks: Not all campgrounds offer full facilities. Matt S. points out that Finger Lakes RV Resort "does not offer a pool, jump pad, sports facilities, amenities, or activities. They offer a clean and safe place to stay while visiting the area."
Leveling challenges: Sites at some locations may require additional equipment. At Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, Donna C. reports, "Almost all of the sites are not even close to level. Not a big issue with a fifth wheel but a real hassle with a motorcoach. We changed sites three times and finally resigned ourselves to not being leveled."
Weather considerations: Power outages can occur during storms. A reviewer at Finger Lakes RV Resort experienced "a severe thunderstorm one evening which resulted in an area-wide power outage that lasted a couple days," though they appreciated that "the campground refunded everybody a night's stay as a courtesy."
Tips for camping with families
Speed limits ensure safety: Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort enforces slow driving. "The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it.... Kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area and the pool far enough from the campsites but close to the store and watchful eye of the staff," explains Rachel T.
Scheduled activities: Weekend programming keeps children engaged. At Lake Bluff RV Park, Sara H. mentions, "They do events for kids every weekend," and Victoria confirms, "Kids activities are great. Even with COVID they have stuff to keep them busy."
Game facilities: Indoor entertainment options provide rainy day alternatives. Sara H. notes that Lake Bluff has "a nice game room pool, air hockey, video games. There is a change machine too," located "near the playground."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose locations based on specific needs. At Lakeview Campsites, Marty A. warns about the "gravel inclined access road that may not be for new RV owners," despite rating it as a "very clean, quiet secure campground."
Shade availability varies: Tree cover can impact comfort in summer months. Matt S. advises about Finger Lakes RV Resort: "There's no shade from trees or otherwise. If you're visiting during the summer, be sure your air conditioning and awnings are working."
Seasonal restrictions: Most RV parks close during winter. Finger Lakes RV Resort typically operates during peak season, while Lake Bluff RV Park specifies operations from "April 15 to October 31." Owasco Hill RV Campground runs "May 15th to October 15th" with limited off-season availability.
