Glamping near Geneva, New York offers experiences at several campgrounds throughout the Finger Lakes region, with sites available from mid-April through mid-October. Most locations sit between 450-900 feet in elevation, creating moderate temperature variations between lakeside and hilltop accommodations. The region receives approximately 36 inches of annual rainfall, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Swimming at multiple lakes: Taughannock Falls State Park Campground provides lake access with a swimming area that "goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of," according to camper Barbara S. The park also features "gorge hikes [that] are moderate and invigorating."
Fishing opportunities: Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill includes a fishing pond among its amenities. As Brian O. notes about nearby Sampson State Park, there are "nice places to fish off a wall" and the park offers "boating ramps" for those bringing watercraft.
Outdoor games and recreation: Many campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas. Sned Acres features "wide open areas for playing games, walking your dogs" and "a nice pool for the kids," as David M. mentions. The Canandaigua-Rochester KOA has "a bounce [pad]" and even "a play area for your dogs," according to Rich L.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Junius Ponds receives praise for its maintenance standards. As Gib D. notes, it's a "well taken care of place" with "plenty of space between sites." Jim C. adds that it has "clean facilities" and is "well priced [at] $42 per night for full hookups."
Seasonal activities: Cheerful Valley Campground offers entertainment throughout the camping season. According to a visitor, "Live music and friendly neighbors" create a welcoming atmosphere, while the river provides fishing opportunities and "kids had places to play."
Natural surroundings: The region's diverse terrain appeals to nature enthusiasts. At Ontario County Park, Sarah C. recommends "secluded tent camping (recommend numbers 7 and 8)," while mentioning the "stunning overlook that is breathtaking." Dayne B. notes you can see "deer, chipmunks and rabbits [that] will say hi in the early and late hours."
What you should know
Variable privacy levels: Site selection matters significantly. At Taughannock Falls State Park, "the upper part of the campground is pretty private, while the lower end near the entrance/exit is more open." Similarly, meg observes that tent camping can feel like "camping in a neighborhood backyard" with voices that carry.
Reservation challenges: Popular campgrounds fill quickly. Kimberlee P. notes about Junius Ponds that "most of the sites are for seasonal guests so it can be difficult to get a reservation," though the "RV sites are a good size."
Seasonal camper presence: Watkins Glen State Park balances day visitors with overnight guests. Laura L. mentions, "The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between," but Ryan D. notes that at some campgrounds "seasonal campers and their golf carts" can affect the quiet atmosphere.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When selecting sites, consider proximity to play areas. Jonathan G. notes that Ontario County Park has "multiple playgrounds which are clean & well maintained," making it a "great campground for kids."
Water activities: Cayuga Lake State Park offers multiple water recreation options. As Colleen M. suggests, the park provides "Cayuga Lake access for swimming and boating" in addition to being "close to hiking trails along the gorge."
Educational opportunities: Flint Creek Campgrounds provides family-friendly programming. Sheri S. reports they offer "activities such as wagon rides, arts and crafts, movie night and various themed weekend events," while Victoria O. recommends visitors "definitely go on both visual and audio tours" at other area parks.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: For easier setup, scout your options. Kristine B. notes Junius Ponds has an "oversized, long pull through available (site 88) that made entering and exiting the site nice and easy" for their "36' 5th wheel."
Leveling requirements: Prepare accordingly for uneven terrain. Jonathan G. advises, "make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level" at Ontario County Park, while also mentioning "the RV sites don't have much shade."
Utility access variation: Check hookup locations before arrival. Amanda K. explains that at Sampson State Park, "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."
