Camping options near Etna, New York dot the valleys and hillsides along the southern shores of the Finger Lakes region. At elevations between 900-1,200 feet, camping areas experience cooler evening temperatures, even in summer months when daytime highs reach the 80s. Weather patterns can change rapidly, particularly in the transitional seasons when morning fog frequently blankets the valleys before burning off by mid-day.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: Taughannock Falls State Park Campground offers a moderately easy 0.75-mile gorge trail leading to a 215-foot waterfall. "The gorge hikes are moderate and invigorating," notes camper Ashley B., who visited the park. Sites at this campground remain available from April 15 through October 16.
Lake swimming: Taughannock Falls State Park Campground includes lake access with swimming areas. "The campground is very walkable to the swimming area, which goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of," reports Barbara S. The swimming area typically opens after Memorial Day and closes before Labor Day, depending on lifeguard availability.
Wine tasting: Finger Lakes RV Resort in Hector provides direct access to nearby wineries. "Located about 1/3 of the way up the eastern side of Seneca Lake, the location provides easy access to the wineries, distilleries, and breweries along the lake," writes Craig F. The resort even features "walking paths from the campground to two different wineries," according to Matt S.
What campers like
Level, spacious campsites: At Finger Lakes RV Resort, campers appreciate the site layout. "This is a beautiful location with all sites very nicely spread out with generous spacing... Each site has a picnic table, a fire ring and lots of room for big rigs," notes Steve A. The resort opened recently, offering newly constructed facilities.
Farm-based camping experience: Woonton Family Farms provides a non-traditional camping option near Skaneateles. "We had an excellent stay at the farm of the Woonton Family Farms with our RV, it was a cozy and beautiful campsite with personal attention of the owner. We had a great campfire, fresh blackberries and the option of canoeing," shares Willemien V. The farm maintains just two campsites, requiring advance reservations.
Water recreation options: Pine Valley RV Park & Campground offers multiple water activities. "So many things for kids to do. From boating, to giant swimming inflatables, putt putt even a giant slide. All part of the price of the campground," writes Mommy D. The park includes lakeside sites with direct water access until the seasonal closure on September 30.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most rv parks near Etna, New York operate on limited schedules. Owasco Hill RV Campground runs from May 15 to October 15, though off-season availability may exist by special request. Similarly, Spruce Row Campground operates from May 1 to October 12.
Bathroom facility variations: Campground restrooms range widely in quality and maintenance. At Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground, facilities are "pretty basic facilities, nice though," according to Harry H. Meanwhile, Janet B. notes that at Taughannock Falls, "The bathrooms were messy, with a couple of toilets not flushed/clogged. Thank God shower stall in a decent condition and it was free!"
Campground noise levels: Proximity to roadways affects some camping experiences. At Riverside RV Campground, one camper notes, "This place is right on the river and the freeway! So it's kind of loud." Weekend stays typically experience higher noise levels as Tammy Rae S. observes.
Tips for camping with families
Look for built-in activities: Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground offers natural features that entertain children. "This is an excellent campground because it has plenty to do for everyone. There are a lot of amenities on the actual campgrounds such as fields for playing games or taking a stroll but there are also gorges and waterfalls you can hike to!" writes Carrie J.
Consider off-peak visits: Weekday camping provides a quieter experience at most campgrounds. "We have never felt crowded while here," notes Molly G. about Buttermilk Falls, attributing this to "the lack of amenities drives a lot of people away."
Pack for variable weather: Temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night occur frequently in spring and fall. "Been here in all the seasons, each is beautiful," mentions Harry H., suggesting families prepare layered clothing and rain gear due to the region's changeable weather patterns.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Spruce Row Campground, site location matters significantly. "We were on an end spot at an intersection inside the campground. Lots of golf carts after whizzing around and due to our campsite location they unfortunately were able to shine their lights on us every time they turned the corner after dark," reports Jodi.
Check hookup configurations: RV parks near Etna, New York sometimes have unusual utility placement. At Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, campers advise to "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords," according to a recent visitor.
Prepare for variable site surfaces: Most rv campgrounds in the Finger Lakes region have gravel pads rather than concrete or asphalt. Pine Valley RV Park's "Lakeside sites are spacious and reasonably priced," according to Mark L., but may require additional leveling equipment for larger vehicles.
