Camping opportunities near Hector, New York are situated in the glacially-formed landscape of the Finger Lakes region at elevations ranging from 400 to 900 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer camping season typically running from May through October when daytime temperatures average between 70-85°F. Fall camping features spectacular foliage displays with peak colors usually occurring in mid-October when overnight temperatures can dip into the 40s.
What to do
Swimming in waterfall pools: Taughannock Falls State Park Campground features a unique swimming area with depths up to 12 feet and a dock to jump from. "The swimming area, which goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of" provides refreshing recreation during hot summer days according to Barbara S., who adds that "the hiking to the waterfall is very manageable."
Horseback riding trails: Backbone Horse Campground caters specifically to equestrian campers with designated areas for horses and trailers. As Heather D. notes, "More than half of the camp is designated for horses" with "fairly large sites" to accommodate both camping gear and horse equipment. The campground connects to an extensive trail system throughout the national forest.
Stargazing from open fields: Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite offers exceptional night sky viewing opportunities from its meadow areas. Ian A. describes it as the "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife," adding that during their stay, "We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night!" The minimal light pollution makes this a prime location for astronomy enthusiasts.
Hiking to secluded berry patches: Blueberry Patch Campground features several short trails leading to wild blueberry fields. Brian K. explains, "There are a few small trails leading right from the sites, one of which goes to the blueberry patch, which is in fact covered in wild blueberry bushes and allows for some stellar stargazing at night."
What campers like
Spacious, private campsites: Keuka Lake State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its well-designed sites. Helen H. notes the campground has "large and many have electric. Mature trees surround campsites and separate the loops from each other." Kimberly L. agrees, stating "each site private, electricity available at 50 sites, easy access to lake and stunning views!"
Clean, modern facilities: Watkins Glen State Park Campground maintains high standards for its bathhouses and facilities. According to Lori F., there are "good patrols at night to keep people from being too noisy, tent sites are nice and shaded" and while "some of the shower houses are better than others," the staff keeps facilities clean and well-maintained.
Budget-friendly options: Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite offers free camping with more amenities than typical dispersed camping. Karen M. appreciates that "spots had fire rings and picnic tables. Bathrooms were clean and had potable water" while Joel M. describes it as "basically a big field surrounded by the forest" with a "toilet house," providing comfortable basics without cost.
Central location for regional exploration: Finger Lakes RV Resort provides strategic positioning for visiting area attractions. Craig F. notes the resort's location "about 1/3 of the way up the eastern side of Seneca Lake, provides easy access to the wineries, distilleries, and breweries along the lake," while Matt S. confirms it's "a great place to stay for wine and waterfalls."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Watkins Glen State Park Campground fills quickly during peak seasons. According to Harry H., "The campground is popular on weekends (and almost daily in summer)" so "try to get them [reservations] if you can." The gorge trail can also become extremely crowded, so early morning hiking is recommended.
Water access considerations: Robert H. Treman State Park Campground requires careful planning for water needs. Victoria notes that "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," while Emma N. mentions "separate dishwashing sinks inside the restrooms" are available for washing dishes.
First-come, first-served limitations: Some campgrounds don't accept reservations. Maggie A. advises regarding Blueberry Patch Campground, "my only recommendation is that you arrive earlier and set up if you're camping during the busy season. Otherwise it fills up fast." Brian K. concurs, noting "I've seen this campground fill up fast on summer weekends. First come, first serve."
Seasonal facility closures: Swimming areas may close earlier than campgrounds. Emma N. reports about Robert H. Treman, "I'm bummed that we missed out on the waterfall and swimming area! The swimming area was closed for the season by the time we arrived," suggesting visitors check operating schedules for specific amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sampson State Park Campground offers multiple playgrounds and recreational facilities. Amanda K. lists numerous family amenities: "Nice playgrounds, military museum, paved loops - good for bikes and scooters" plus "ice cream and concessions stand, arcade room, outdoor movie screen."
Swimming hole safety: Taughannock Falls State Park Campground provides supervised swimming areas appropriate for various ages. Steve W. notes the "falls trails were all well defined and excellent for a beginner, moderate hiker" while Barbara S. mentions the "swimming area, which goes to 12 feet deep" offers depth options for different swimming abilities.
Educational opportunities: Robert H. Treman State Park incorporates learning with recreation. According to Carlyne F., "There are endless waterfalls, hiking trails, fishing holes and bird watching opportunities" that can engage children's natural curiosity, and some sites are "handicapped accessible" for families with mobility needs.
Site selection for noise management: For quieter family camping, select sites away from main facilities. At Watkins Glen, Deb S. advises, "This is definitely a large family area. Expect to hear your neighbors once and a while," suggesting families with light sleepers choose more peripheral sites.
Tips from RVers
Hookup logistics: At Sampson State Park Campground, Amanda K. warns that "Electric service boxes are shared in-between sites. This could pose an issue if your power cord is not long enough," and "There is only one source for water fill up" which "could end up being a very very long wait if you arrive at the same time as other campers."
Site leveling requirements: Keuka Lake State Park offers more level sites for RVs. Joseph B. recommends the campground, noting "Most sites have a good level gravel pad to park on" and "Spigots for water are spaced well enough that with a few lengths you can fill up."
Campground road navigation: Laura L. cautions about Watkins Glen State Park Campground: "We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," suggesting larger RVs practice careful maneuvering on campground roads.
Wi-Fi reliability: For RVers working remotely, Finger Lakes RV Resort provides dependable connections. Laura W. confirms "Wifi was strong enough to do work calls" while Craig F. praises the resort's "great wifi and water pressure, along with level sites," making it suitable for digital nomads requiring consistent connectivity.
