Best Tent Camping near Elmira, NY
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Best Tent Sites Near Elmira, NY (10)
1. Gardner Hill Campground
Elmira, New York1 Review•2 Photos•6 Saves- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Market
- Picnic Table
2. Lawrence Recreation Area
Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania2 Reviews•3 Photos•9 SavesOverview
Lawrence Recreation Area is a day-use facility on the south side of Cowanesque Lake. It is conveniently located on State Route 49 approximately 4 miles west of Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania. The area offers a great location for picnicking and shoreline fishing.
Recreation
Cowanesque Lake offers many outdoor activities including boating and fishing. A variety of native fish inhabits the area's streams and lakes. The North and South Tailrace areas provide access for fishing below the dam. The fields and forests around the lake are popular destinations for hunters looking for large and small game species that inhabit the eastern hardwood forests. Many miles of hiking trails surround the lake, including the Mid State Trail, which links the trails at Cowanesque and nearby Hammond Lake into a long path that extends all the way through Pennsylvania from Maryland to New York.
Facilities
The Cayuga Shelter is reservable for group picnicking. It is fully accessible and comfortably accommodates groups of up to 100 people in a lovely lakeside setting.
Natural Features
Cowanesque Lake is situated in the Endless Mountains region of Pennsylvania, along the Allegheny Plateau in the Appalachian Mountains. The surrounding land paints a scenic picture of rolling terrain and open fields.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Tents
- Group
- Picnic Table
$40 - $100 / night
3. Back-Achers Campsites
Dresden, New York4 Reviews•3 Photos•50 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
4. Riverside Acres Campground
Towanda, Pennsylvania2 Reviews•18 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
$22 - $35 / night
5. Colton Point State Park Campground
Gaines, Pennsylvania7 Reviews•25 Photos•56 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Cabins
- Standard (Tent/RV)
6. South Shore Recreation Area
Be the first to review!Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania•1 Photo•1 SaveOverview
South Shore Recreation Area is located on the south side of the Cowanesque Lake along State Route 49, just five miles west of Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania. The area is easily accessible from Route 15 and offers a great location for boating, picnicking and fishing.
Recreation
Cowanesque Lake offers a variety of outdoor activities including boating and fishing. A variety of native fish inhabits the area's streams and lakes. The North and South Tailrace areas provide access for fishing below the dam. The fields and forests around the lake are popular destinations for hunters looking for large and small game species that inhabit the eastern hardwood forests. Many miles of hiking trails circle the lake, including the Mid State Trail, which travels through the recreation area. It links the trails at Cowanesque and nearby Hammond Lake into a long path that extends all the way through Pennsylvania from Maryland to New York.
Facilities
The recreation area offers three group shelters. The Iroquois and Oneida Shelters have electric and water hookups; the Mohawk Shelter has water hookups only. All three sites are fully accessible and comfortably accommodate groups of up to 100 people in a lovely lakeside setting.
Natural Features
Cowanesque Lake is situated in the Endless Mountains region of Pennsylvania, along the Allegheny Plateau in the Appalachian Mountains. The surrounding land paints a scenic picture of rolling terrain and open fields.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Tents
- Group
- Picnic Table
$40 - $100 / night
7. Lambs Creek Recreation Area
Be the first to review!Mansfield, PennsylvaniaOverview
Lambs Creek Recreation Area is located at the southern end of Tioga Lake, just north of the borough of Mansfield, PA. The recreation area is easily accessible from US Route 15 and offers a great location for picnicking, hiking and biking.
Recreation
A 3.2-mile paved rail trail travels south from the recreation area into Mansfield. It is open for hiking, biking and roller blading. A boat ramp within the facility provides access to the 498-acre Tioga Lake, which is popular for water skiing, fishing and paddling.
Facilities
Lambs Creek offers one group shelter. It is fully accessible and comfortably accommodates up to 100 people in a lovely wooded setting.
Natural Features
Lambs Creek is situated in the Endless Mountains region of Pennsylvania, along the Allegheny Plateau in the Appalachian Mountains. The surrounding land paints a scenic picture of rolling terrain and open fields.
- Pets
- Tents
- Group
- Picnic Table
$75 / night
8. Empire Haven Nudist Park
Moravia, New York1 Review•7 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
9. Camp Earth Connection
Be the first to review!Harford, New York•72 Photos•2 SavesCamp Earth Connection (CEC), a small woodland campground, located on a beautiful parcel of land with 62 acres of forests and fields surrounded by the Hammond Hill State Forest. The camp is adjacent to the Hammond Hill State Forest, with 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and cross country skiing. CEC is so more than just a campground. CEC offer’s a place that people can experience real connections with nature and each other. Some find the that connection during walks in the woods, or sitting by our wildlife pond. While others find it with family, friends or new friends from the CEC community via campfire chats, trail walks, camp workshops or an outdoor ping pong game. CEC is also place where some find emotional and physical healing in this relaxing atmosphere.
Camp Earth Connection includes 18 camp/cabin sites, plus adjacent to the camp, in Eshay's Forest, there are 3 additional cabins/cottages with full amenities. These include: The Tiny House Retreat Cabin, Forest Moon Cottage and the Mountain Queen Cabin. Each site is unique and offers different levels of privacy and solitude. Guests can choose to have some peaceful alone time or be more engaged in our small community during our community campfires, campfire pancake breakfasts or workshops. When you book a cabin or campsite at CEC, you have the opportunity to camp at your comfort level (or challenge yourself with less amenities) and experience nature in the raw.
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Camp Earth Connection offers a variety of activities and workshops such as:
- Saturday morning Campfire Pancake Breakfast.
- Saturday evening Community Campfire.
- Thursday evening, Earth Movie night, (movies about the Earth and Sustainable living) followed by a campfire discussion.
- A variety of workshops are offered periodically led by Eshay and CEC staff and interns including: Making Fire in Nature; Eshay's Tree Walk (meet some of Eshay's favorite trees); Animal Tracks and Signs - trail walk, and more.
- All workshops and activities are free but donations are welcomed.
Camp Earth Connection offers individuals and families a chance to connect with each other and nature in a peaceful beautiful setting. Alcohol and drugs are prohibited to ensure this peaceful atmosphere and to allow folks to find serenity through our natural environment.
At CEC we are environmentally conscientious and do our best to preserve the natural surroundings and natural resources. We incorporate composting and recycling into our daily routine. We understand the importance of reducing the amount of resources we use, and re-using and re-generating whenever possible.
Camp Earth Connection values: Diversity, Acceptance and Community and welcomes diverse families and friends including the BIPOC and LGBTQ community. Camp Earth Connection welcomes and values people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. We do our best to make sure our guests feel safe, cared for and respected. We of course expect the same in return.
I hope you check out Camp Earth Connection, I don't believe you will be disappointed!
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Cabins
$35 - $85 / night
Recent Tent Reviews in Elmira
406 Reviews of 10 Elmira Campgrounds
- CC H.
Scout
DB Adventures
A great spot to camp
So myself, my Girlfriend and our dog went up to hike the Grand Canyon and decided to spend the night. We were met with extremely friendly personnel. The site was easy to get to. And the bathrooms and showers were extremely clean. Honestly it was a huge plus picking this place to stay the night.
- BBeth
Guide
Taughannock Falls State Park Campground
Great little campground
Pulled back and punted bc of Storm Debbie. Lucked out with a find in the Finger Lakes. Nice campground. Has everything you need. Small sites but fine for our hybrid. Ours was shady. Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you’ll need extra long cords. Just beautiful area. Hiked here. Drove to Watkins Glen-hiked-absolutely breathtaking. That campground is much larger. Went to Buttermilk Falls too.
- A
Andrew S.Guide
Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping
Amazing campground
Very well maintained. Some sites are close and some a spread out. About half of them are in the sun and half get shade all day. I switched sites after a day to get some solar charging. Clean bathrooms with flush toilets. Sign in near bathrooms on arrival. Dogs must be on a leash but I found a spot down the hill to the south where there are no campsites to let them play fetch for a bit.
- Rui T.Guide
Sned Acres Campground
Great getaway time
5/5 Stars!
I recently stayed at Sned Acres Campground, and it was an incredible experience! The campground is beautifully maintained with stunning views of Cayuga Lake. The staff was friendly, welcoming, and went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed. The facilities were spotless, and the campsites were spacious and well-kept. Whether you’re RVing or tent camping, there’s plenty of space and privacy.
The location is perfect for exploring the Finger Lakes region, with wineries, hiking, and local attractions just a short drive away. The peaceful atmosphere and serene surroundings made for a relaxing getaway. I can’t recommend Sned Acres enough – we’ll definitely be back!
- vvirginia C.Scout
Kanakadea Park
Noisy
Big open campground with lots of sites both electric and non electric. Many rigs in non electric sites running generators 24 hours. Very noisy. Would not recommend
Jacob D.Guide
Foster Pond Camping Area
Relaxed Free Dispersed Camping
Right at the intersection of Potomac Road and Chicken Coop road in the Finger Lakes National Forest. If heading North on Potomac Road, turn left at the intersection and you’ll find a parking lot. Into the woods around the Lake you’ll find free dispersed camping.
My mom and I stayed just in the parking lot and had no issues and weren’t bothered. NO AMENITIES
Greg W.
Traveler
Stony Fork Creek Campground
Great experience
We arrived on Saturday and departed the following Friday. The campground was exceptionally maintained, bathrooms and showers virtually spotless and the pool was clearly and consistently maintained at all times. Plenty of space to spread out and walk. All of the roads were paved and sites were very large.
Teresa M.ScoutSquarewood Acres Campground
Nice clean sites with grass tent areas
Nice quiet sites, good wifi, clean bathrooms, drinking water and power at all sites. Hosts are very friendly
Bearded B.Scout
Doo Dah Campgrounds
Quiet little campground next to the creek
Love being down here with the family.
Janet R.
Legend
Salt Springs State Park Campground
Unique park with unique natural features
This park is technically a “state park” because the land for it was donated to the state for public use. However, once the state became the official stewards, there werent funds in the state budget to maintain it as a park. A lical group, the Friends of Salt Springs, stepped up and offered to maintain the park with funds raised by their group. The result is a small but unique property open to the public for day use (picnicking and hiking and fishing) along with 2 small rustic campgrounds. One campground has a large open mowed grassy meadow with level sites for car camping or small campers, no hookups are available but each site has a fire ring and picnic table. On the other side of the parks trout stream are seven secluded primitive hike-in tent sites along with three basic camper cabins. The Friends of Salt Springs makes a good effort to maintain these two rustic campgrounds, however it seems there isnt a ranger on site at night so a camper said the meadow campground can get a little noisy some nights. The hike in sites are relatively quiet and secluded though, and are positioned nicely along the stream, one site actually adjacent to a good swimming hole.
The camper cabins are basic with bunks, bring all your own gear. They are fairly new and have electricity but no water or heat.
On the grounds in the day use area are picnic spits, a pavilion, and an activity barn. When I was there, the barn was featuring a local quilt show.
The special aspect of this park are the hiking trails through old growth hemlock forest, said to be the largest hemlocks in Pennsylvania. The trout stream also cascades through some some waterfalls, and there are gorges with unique geology.
There is a village nearby with limited supplies, you may want to stock up on groceries before heading out to this somewhat remote park. There is, however, a local brewery, plus an odd coffee shop featuring both donuts and ammo, an unusual combination…..
- PP J.Scout
Taughannock Falls State Park Campground
Below average SP campground
As for RV camping, this place is outdated. Sites are on top of one another, but some have good shade. Ours, site 6 didn't. Really can't walk to beach area or store. Cheap enough at $25. T-storms knocked out power overnight.
- MJ B.Guide
Stony Fork Creek Campground
Good Camping Option to the Grand Canyon of PA
Stayed at this campsite, taking our pop-up camper on its maiden voyage to the Grand Canyon of PA. Was able to choose a location that worked best for us. The area we selected was not busy. Campsite appeared to have a lot of seasonal campers. My husband does not like staying in crowded campgrounds with people surrounding you and up all night screaming and singing. We go camping to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. Not to listen to people pretending to relive their college days....lol. Area is open, not offering a lot of privacy, but we had shade and woods behind us, and the ground was grassy and level. The pool was nice and the rec center had a lot of activities for kids. The pond offered fishing and pedal boat rentals. We chose this campsite due to its proximity to the Leonard Harrison State Park. We had no issues here and would recommend.
Pork L.ScoutCamp Elmbois
Nice place
An ideal place to try difficult challenges geometry dash meltdown that I have never tried before.
David M.GuideSned Acres Campground
Beautiful Wide Open grounds with a lot of flat nice grass
We stayed here for Memorial Day Weekend and really enjoyed Sned Acres. The Grounds are well taken care of (although some areas around the playgrounds and pool could have been weed whacked better) there is a lot of grass and wide open areas for playing games, walking your dogs and you can let your dogs drag their leashes so they have free roam and feel like they are running free. The large pond is nice, there were a lot of campers fishing. The general store is well stocked and the family running the campground and store are very friendly. There is a nice pool for the kids. The only thing that would make Sned better is a little more spacing between the sites, they are close (we were in F130) to where if you open your window shades in your camper your neighbors are 5-10 feet away from you. Would definitely stay again if in the area.
Paulina B.
RangerSugar Hill Recreation Area Camping
Dog Friendly Retreat near Watkins Glen
We stayed at Sugar Hill for about 10 days, arriving right after Memorial Day weekend. The campground offers a variety of great options for various rig sizes, accommodating different needs comfortably. Its location is convenient, just a 15-minute drive from Watkins Glen, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.
During our stay, the campsite never even got near half full, providing a peaceful and uncrowded experience. For those seeking more privacy, there are numerous secluded spots along the side roads throughout the park.
However, it's worth noting that WiFi and phone service are pretty limited, typically ranging between 1-2 bars. Despite this minor inconvenience, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would recommend Sugar Hill for its tranquility and proximity to local attractions.
- Paulina B.Ranger
Twin Streams Campground
Family Retreat by the Stream
Spent Memorial Day weekend at this campground and found it bustling with activity yet still retaining a serene charm. Despite the crowd, we snagged a spot by the stream, which added an extra layer of tranquility to our stay. As the holiday wound down, so did the crowd, leaving behind a peaceful ambiance. Its proximity to the PA Grand Canyon made it an ideal base for exploration. While the WiFi was a bit spotty, offering only two bars in certain areas, it encouraged us to disconnect and fully immerse ourselves in nature, especially during the mesmerizing stargazing nights. Although there were plenty of annual RV residents, the atmosphere remained quaint and inviting. Overall, a delightful spot for a camping getaway.
- OOlivia A.Traveler
Worlds End State Park Campground
Súper app!
I really enjoy this app. It was really helpful when we visit Arizona, and of course my local area. I recommended to the beginner camper or to the Pro campers.
Jim M.Guide
Loyalsock State Forest
The campsites aren't too bad but I choose a bad night to stay.
The sites are just pull offs along the road. the road isn't heavily traveled so it's not too bad. The problem was the night that I stayed there it had been raining non stop for several day and the whole campsite. was several inches of mud. there wasn't any grassy areas to park near. All in all not a bad place in dry conditions. it was reported to be free with a permit but the permit was about $15
Nicole S.Ranger
Watkins Glen / Corning KOA
Mixed Feelings
This was our families first SoLo trip with our camper. It had alot of things to do indoor/ outdoor pool, pirate ship, slide, big pillow, waterside, golf and rock wall. The campground and showers were clean. There were some things that didn't work like the army truck ride, zipline, and playground. The biggest downfall was being near the dump station and something going on with this makeshift site next to us where around our area smelled of sewer fumes all the time we went out for dinner one night because my 3 yr old was gaging. However the area was absolutely gorgeous we hiked so many waterfalls, went and rented a boat for the day to check out the lake, and drive to the next lake to check out the park.
Sunny B.Scout
Harpy Hollow
Nice place
A great place to visit, I really like this place. I often lie here admiring the scenery and playing suika game. I like everything that is peaceful and slow
- PPaul B.Traveler
Finger Lakes Campground
Scenic, pleasant campground
Good size sites, mostly back-in, some gravel and some grass. New owner making daily improvements. Great manager doing her best to accommodate every camper. Very limited to non existent cell service, Reason for 4 stars.
- PPaul B.Traveler
Bud Valley Campground
Now FingerLakes Campground
This is now Finger Lakes Campground.
- PPaul B.Traveler
Camp Elmbois
Mostly Seasonal
Owners on site, very friendly, and accommodating. Water and 30a, dump station. Some larger sites to accommodate up to 40’ rigs. Reasonable width sites.
Carl G.Guide
Keuka Lake State Park Campground
Another beautiful State Park
Keuka Lake is small, boat launch, small beach playground at beach and camp ground. Hiking, biking. Not far from Penn Yan, nice city, winery's are all over. TV reception there is none, cell phone not great either. Lake is clean and clear, great for fishing, boating, and swimming. Park is clean and well maintained.
- LLATHA S.Scout
Taughannock Falls State Park Campground
Met the basic needs, but have seen better
The park itself is located in a great region, close to many other top attractions of the Finger Lakes region. There are few nice hiking trails right from the park, which our whole family enjoyed.
We camped as a small group in two sites across from each other. Where we were, the sites were close to the road, and the road noise was distracting. The sites were also very close to each other and rather shallow, thereby limiting privacy. Upper sites, closer to the falls looked a lot nicer, deeper, and quieter, but we had no choice since it was booked with short notice. Not much to say about park facilities. Basic restroom and shower facilities, but the ability to do dishes in the designated sink in the bathroom was a plus. Bathroom facilities were old and not well maintained. We barely saw any real cleaning either. So, that was a bummer.
All in all, if you are eager to get out and camp, and have no better choice, I would say you will be OK. Otherwise, there are nicer options around.
- GGeorge L.Guide
Watkins Glen / Corning KOA
Better than usual KOA
Very convenient to Watkins Glenn State Park and the Speedway. Restrooms are modern clean and adequate. WiFi was good on a fall weekend with park pretty full. Some sites are concrete, ours was gravel and not particularly level. Good cable TV.
Eliza F.Scout
Sunflower Acres
Peacful and has been renovated top to bottom
We stay every year usually a few times a year and always come back. This year the changes that have been happening are unreal. The new owners have renovated everything top to bottom. The biggest one being the brand new pool and deck
Guide to Elmira
Tent camping near Elmira, New York, offers a variety of scenic spots where nature lovers can unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from peaceful lakeside sites to well-equipped campgrounds, there's something for everyone.
Some prices for tent camping range from $20 to $40
- At Colton Point State Park Campground, you can find affordable rates with access to stunning views of the Pine Creek Gorge.
- Back-Achers Campsites offers spacious sites and clean facilities, making it a great value for families looking to camp near Seneca Lake.
- For a unique experience, consider Camp Earth Connection, where you can enjoy a rustic setting at reasonable prices.
Tips for tent camping near Elmira
- Bring your own water and supplies, as many sites like Lambs Creek Recreation Area do not have water hookups or showers available.
- If you're traveling with pets, South Shore Recreation Area is pet-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors with your furry friends.
- Plan your visit during the off-season for a quieter experience, especially at popular spots like Lawrence Recreation Area, which can get busy during peak times.
Local attractions to explore while camping
- Enjoy kayaking and fishing at Riverside Acres Campground, where the Susquehanna River provides ample opportunities for water activities.
- Take a short drive to explore the wineries near Back-Achers Campsites, making it a perfect spot for wine enthusiasts.
- Hike the trails at Colton Point State Park Campground for breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Elmira, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Elmira, NY is Gardner Hill Campground with a 5-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Elmira, NY?
TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Elmira, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.