Candor's camping areas sit at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in the rolling hills of New York's Southern Tier region. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with warm summers averaging 80°F and cool spring and fall temperatures in the 50-60°F range. Campgrounds near Candor provide access to the Finger Lakes region's gorges, waterfalls, and forest trails, with most sites offering electrical hookups for extended stays.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Robert H. Treman State Park offers numerous waterfall trails at varying difficulty levels. "The hiking trails are awesome. Don't let the beginning steps fool you, the rim trail can be very strenuous," notes Matt G. about Robert H. Treman State Park Campground.
Swimming in natural pools: The gorge swimming areas provide unique summer experiences. "The swimming area was closed for the season by the time we arrived," explains Emma N. from Robert H. Treman. At Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground, Chris D. observes "The falls are always fun, despite the lack of impressive height. The fact they're integrated into the swimming area is a unique feature."
Fishing opportunities: Many regional campgrounds offer fishing access. "There are great hiking trails, fishing holes and bird watching opportunities," shares Carlyne F. about the water activities at Robert H. Treman State Park.
Kayaking calm waters: Several nearby lakes provide flat-water paddling options. "The pond is beautiful," notes Kat V. about Aspen Family Campground, while Paully B. describes Greenwood County Park as having a "perfect lake for kayaking for beginner or seasoned" paddlers.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campsites offer enough room for comfortable setups. "Site 54 at Robert H Treman is very large, flat, nonelectric and well shaded with areas of sun," observes not S. At Hickories Park Campground, alyssa F. found that "the campground is well maintained... i felt very safe."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area generally maintain good standards. According to Stephanie B., Taughannock Falls State Park Campground has "nice camp ground with well-kept bathrooms," while Mary S. notes Chenango Valley State Park Campground offers "pretty good restrooms/showers."
Diverse camping options: Sites range from open fields to wooded areas. "The campground has a nice small beach area with sand for the kids. Water is very shallow however, so not the best place for swimming for older kids," explains Jessica G. about Park Station Campground.
Seasonal advantages: Different seasons offer unique camping experiences. "Went in the fall, very quiet, and peaceful. Woke to snow on the tent," shares Scott M. about Robert H. Treman, while Sara S. recommends visiting Buttermilk Falls "early or later near dusk if you want a more solitary experience."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal changes. "Fall is a very pretty time up here," notes Kirsten J. about Hickories Park Campground, while several reviewers mention swimming areas closing seasonally.
Site variations: Campsite quality and privacy levels vary significantly. "The upper part of the campground is pretty private, while the lower end near the entrance/exit is more open," explains Barbara S. about Taughannock Falls.
Facility limitations: Some campgrounds have rustic facilities. "The bathroom was not very upkept/updated and kinda dirty," reports Amy A. about Buttermilk Falls, though many other campgrounds receive positive reviews for cleanliness.
Reservation needs: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. According to Harry H., at Buttermilk Falls you should "reserve ahead of time in summer."
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife may visit campsites. Mary S. warns Chenango Valley visitors to "beware of raccoons. They are brazen thieves here...and every campground they inhabit. Just don't leave your food out."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Chenango Valley State Park, Mary P. notes "playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach and new bath house."
Swimming options: Natural swimming holes and constructed pools provide water recreation. "Great water for older kids that can swim," mentions Kelly J. about Robert H. Treman State Park.
Biking opportunities: Many campgrounds have roads suitable for bicycle riding. At Chenango Valley, Courtney Z. recommends visitors "bring your bikes, the swimming is great and the entire swimming/boating area just underwent a major renovation."
Pet-friendly activities: For families camping with pets near Candor, multiple trails accommodate dogs. At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, Lindsay C. notes "dogs are allowed but they are not allowed on the gorge trail. I'm ok with this I just wish I had know before we got there."
Tent site selection: Choose tent sites based on ground conditions. Jessica G. cautions that at Park Station Campground, "campsites are mostly all on gravel so make sure you bring air mattresses or lots of padding if you will be in a tent."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some RV sites require additional effort to level. "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," warns Victoria about Robert H. Treman State Park.
Hookup accessibility: Check hookup placements before arrival. Barbara S. advises Taughannock Falls visitors 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: Internal campground roads vary in quality. At Pinecreek Campground, Mindie C. notes "my only complaint is the condition of the roads. They are in dire need of grading and new gravel. Be careful!"
RV size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. "The roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," reports Laura L. about navigating Watkins Glen State Park with a 30-foot motorhome.
Extended stay considerations: Some campgrounds have additional costs for longer stays. Cheryl W. mentions that Pinecreek Campground "charge for electricity on any stays one week or longer which we had not encountered previously at campgrounds where we have stayed."
