Cabin accommodations near Erin, New York range from rustic to modern, with seasonal availability typically running May through October. Elevations in this Southern Tier region average 1,200-1,800 feet, creating cooler nights even in summer months. Many cabin sites in the area offer shelter near popular gorges and waterfall features characteristic of the Finger Lakes landscape.
What to do
Swimming at natural sites: Robert H. Treman State Park features a unique swimming area formed by a waterfall. "The beautiful waterfall swimming pool is very cold, but great on a hot day," notes a camper who stayed at Robert H. Treman State Park Campground. The natural swimming hole includes a diving board for more adventurous visitors.
Hiking diverse terrain: Multiple trail systems connect throughout the region's parks. "Hiking trails are nice! Not too challenging, but very scenic. Walking along the water from the upper and lower entrances is great," reports a visitor to Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground. Most trails range from easy to moderate difficulty.
Wine tasting: Nearby wineries provide day trip opportunities from cabin bases. "Nearby wineries and many wine drinkers camp here along with enjoying beautiful finger Lakes," mentions a visitor to Watkins Glen/Corning KOA. Several cabin sites offer proximity to the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Site layouts vary significantly between campgrounds. "Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, making it easy to prepare meals after a day spent exploring the park's famous Gorge Trail," according to one camper at Watkins Glen. Buttermilk Falls offers more seclusion with one visitor noting, "We have never felt crowded while here."
Water features: Most cabin campers appreciate access to water recreation. "The swimming area was closed for the season by the time we arrived. I would definitely return," shared a visitor to Robert H. Treman State Park Campground. Seasonal operations typically end in early September for swimming facilities.
Clean facilities: Cabin campers consistently mention facility maintenance. At Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground, visitors appreciate that "Restrooms/showers are immaculate any time of day. Heated swimming pool and the splash pad for kiddies is spotless as well."
What you should know
Seasonal timing: Most cabin facilities close mid-autumn. At Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, operations run "April 15 to October 16," providing a longer season than some neighboring parks.
Water quality issues: Some locations report variable water conditions. At Ferenbaugh Campground, one guest advised, "Make sure you use a water filter, there was a lot of sediment in the water when we were there."
Reservation requirements: Holiday weekends fill quickly. "Get your reservations in early though weekends for lakeside sites are booked super fast!" warns a visitor to Pine Cradle Lake. Most parks allow bookings 9 months in advance for cabins.
Site terrain: Cabin sites often feature varying landscapes. "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," notes a visitor to Robert Treman about surrounding areas.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several locations offer dedicated play areas. At Camp Bell Campground, visitors appreciate that it "Has a pool and playground. Friendly staff." Play structures typically accommodate ages 2-12.
Swimming options: Pool facilities supplement natural swimming areas. "The heated pool and splash pad, spacious sites and clean amenities," impressed a visitor to Pine Cradle Lake, making it suitable for younger children who might find gorge waters too cold.
Educational opportunities: Geological features provide learning experiences. At Taughannock Falls, "Lots of educational posters along the way to keep you informed of what you were seeing and the history about how it was created," reports a camper, making the park suitable for school-age children.
Noise considerations: Family-friendly sites balance activities with quiet time. "Each campsite is pretty big and shady, but can get noisy," notes one visitor to Watkins Glen about weekend occupancy, suggesting mid-week stays for quieter experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Access roads vary between parks. At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, one RVer reported, "The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves."
Hookup locations: Setup logistics matter for cabin neighbors. At Taughannock Falls, a visitor advises to "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords."
Dump station access: Waste management facilities differ between parks. "The campground has bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, a playground and a dump station," confirms a camper at Robert H. Treman, providing options for self-contained units and cabin guests alike.
