Best Campgrounds near Etna, NY

Camping near Etna, New York, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for you.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Watkins Glen State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The access to Watkins Glen! My site was in Loop D which has a direct hiking trail to the trail along Watkins Glen!"
• Water Activities: Enjoy paddleboarding or kayaking at nearby Seneca Lake. A visitor shared, "We went paddleboarding. We put in at a boat launch at the very southeastern corner of the lake near Seneca Lake Kayak."
• Visit Waterfalls: Check out the many waterfalls in the area. One reviewer noted, "The Gorge trail is especially great after 5pm when the tourists have left for the day."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Sampson State Park Campground stated, "Large sites, clean restrooms & showers. Should be a model for other state campgrounds."
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer generous site sizes. One camper at Chenango Valley State Park Campground said, "The camo sites are spacious and you are not on top of your neighbor."
• Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Sampson State Park have playgrounds and swimming areas, making it great for kids. A visitor mentioned, "Place is great for kids. Lots to do with a couple of playgrounds, guarded swimming area, kayak rentals."

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A camper at Taughannock Falls State Park Campground noted, "Basic restroom and shower facilities, but the ability to do dishes in the designated sink in the bathroom was a plus."
• Site Proximity: Sites can be close together, which may affect privacy. A review from Cayuga Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "If you stay, I'd recommend the 800 or 1000 loops--the sites were much bigger in those areas."
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect wildlife interactions, especially in more rustic campgrounds. One camper at Blueberry Patch Campground said, "There are vault toilets and the site was nice."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly spots like Sampson State Park that offer activities for kids. A reviewer said, "Lots to do with a couple of playgrounds, guarded swimming area."
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. One camper at Watkins Glen State Park Campground recommended, "I highly recommend going early to beat the crowds."
• Pack Snacks: Bring along snacks for hikes and outings. A visitor at Fillmore Glen State Park Campground mentioned, "Great facilities, and very new playground."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Taughannock Falls State Park Campground noted, "The sites are not very large but sufficient."
• Bring Extension Cords: Some sites may have electric posts far from your RV. A review from Sampson State Park Campground mentioned, "The power poles are between sites and are often more than 20' away."
• Stay Connected: Check for good cell service. A camper at Watkins Glen State Park Campground shared, "ATT coverage is decent."

Camping around Etna, New York, is a great way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone!