Seasonal campgrounds form the core of camping sites near Etna, New York, with most facilities operating from April through October when temperatures range from spring lows around 40°F to summer highs in the 80s. Sites in the Finger Lakes region tend to have flat terrain with moderate tree coverage, providing a mix of shaded and open camping areas. The region's glacially-carved landscape creates distinctive gorge camping opportunities with dramatic elevation changes within short distances.
What to do
Waterfall swimming pools: Robert H. Treman State Park features a unique swimming area built into a natural waterfall setting. "Beautiful waterfall swimming pool is very cold, but great on a hot day," notes one camper at site 54, which offers "a large, flat, nonelectric and well shaded" area with "areas of sun."
Field stargazing: The Blueberry Patch Campground in Finger Lakes National Forest provides excellent nighttime sky viewing. "There is in fact a blueberry patch, which is covered in wild blueberry bushes and allows for some stellar stargazing at night," reports a visitor who appreciated the secluded location.
Gorge trail hiking: Fillmore Glen State Park offers accessible hiking trails with multiple water features. "The gorge trail has a lot of steps but lots of walkway in between them so it's not just up up up more steps," explains a camper at Watkins Glen State Park, who adds that "there are a total of 19 waterfalls on your way up, all of them absolutely beautiful."
Seneca Lake activities: Several public boat launches provide kayak and canoe access within 15-20 minutes of most campgrounds. A visitor to Finger Lakes National Forest shares: "With the help of a local, we found Smith Memorial Park – a great place to launch our kayaks and make some dinner at the beach."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Campsites at Blueberry Patch Campground offer more seclusion than state parks. "The sites aren't too far away from each other so you don't feel completely isolated but far enough away to allow some privacy," notes one reviewer who appreciates the balance.
Natural swimming areas: Multiple parks feature swimming spots integrated with natural features. At Taughannock Falls State Park, "The swimming area goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of. The campground is very walkable to the swimming area," according to a recent visitor.
Rustic camping options: For those seeking more primitive experiences, Finger Lakes National Forest provides basic amenities. "Great way to transition from public camping to backcountry camping," says one visitor who appreciated that "the 10 sites are first come first serve."
Clean facilities: State park bathhouses receive regular maintenance. At Fillmore Glen State Park, visitors report "bathrooms are very clean and close to all campsites" and that "kids loved the park and swimming in the waterfall beach."
What you should know
Campground differences: While state parks offer more amenities, they also mean more people. "I ALWAYS recommend heading away from state parks and camping in state forests. There's always more privacy and more wilderness," advises a camper who stayed at Blueberry Patch Campground.
Reservation requirements: First-come, first-served sites fill quickly, especially at smaller campgrounds. One camper at Buttermilk Falls State Park advises, "Reserve ahead of time in summer," while another notes Blueberry Patch fills up fast during weekends: "We arrived late on a Thursday night but were able to find one spot."
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water. At Blueberry Patch, "There are no water sources near the site. There is a gas station about 15 minutes away on route 79 so make sure to fill up on water and snacks."
Seasonal facilities: Swimming areas have limited availability. One camper at Robert H. Treman shared: "I'm bummed that we missed out on the waterfall and swimming area! The photos from other reviewers look spectacular! The swimming area was closed for the season by the time we arrived."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Fillmore Glen State Park, "Kids loved the park and swimming in the waterfall beach," and the site includes "a large playground for the kids."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer animal sighting opportunities. A camper at Buttermilk Falls reported "deer outside the tent" and recommends watching for "wildflowers through summer, great leaves in fall."
Field space for activities: Certain campgrounds provide open areas for recreation. At Fillmore Glen, "The grassy field is great for kiddos to run-amok and there is a playground at the far end of it so parents can keep an eye on the kids while enjoying time with their friends and family."
Cabin options: For families wanting more comfort, several parks offer cabins. At Round Top Retreat, "This was our 6th consecutive summer visiting here. Very secluded. We let the kids and dogs run pretty much wherever without worry. And close to Ithaca so you can drive into town easily."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Electric sites vary in quality and levelness. At Robert H. Treman, one camper warns "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers."
Hookup locations: Check utility placement before setting up. Taughannock Falls visitors advise to "check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords."
Road conditions: Campground access roads may present challenges. At Pinecreek Campground, "My only complaint is the condition of the roads. They are in dire need of grading and new gravel. Be careful!"
Site size considerations: Different loops offer varying space for larger rigs. At Watkins Glen, "The roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves. We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome."
