Glamping options in Groton, New York can be found within 30 miles of town throughout the Finger Lakes region. The area sits at an elevation between 800-1,000 feet above sea level, creating distinct seasonal patterns that affect camping conditions. Most luxury camping accommodations operate from April through October, with July and August having average temperatures of 70-80°F and frequent evening thunderstorms.
What to do
Waterfall swimming: Robert H. Treman State Park offers a unique swimming experience beneath cascading waterfalls. "There's a diving board into a swimming hole filled by a waterfall which draws so many but the camping is great too," notes one visitor to Robert H. Treman State Park. The swimming area has lifeguards on duty from late June through Labor Day.
Lake activities: Sampson State Park provides multiple water recreation options on Seneca Lake. "Great little beach and swimming area; water was very clean. Small camp store and concession stand with fish fries, breakfast foods and ice cream," says a camper at Sampson State Park. The park maintains a marina with pontoon boat rentals available by the hour or day.
Military history exploration: Visit the Naval museum at Sampson State Park which contains artifacts from when the site served as a Naval training base during WWII. One visitor mentions, "It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era. Very shady and ample bathroom, shower, and water facilities."
What campers like
Private bathrooms: Green Lakes State Park offers upgraded facilities with individual bathroom units. "The bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground," reports a camper at Green Lakes State Park. These facilities are cleaned twice daily during peak season.
Welcome gifts: Several glamping sites offer special touches upon arrival. "They were so helpful as we were first time campers. We loved the friendship bread when we arrived. Conveniently located close to lots of wineries," shares a visitor to Sned Acres Campground. The homemade bread is a tradition started by the owners over 15 years ago.
Multiple trail options: Watkins Glen provides varied hiking paths suitable for different skill levels. "The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!" exclaims a reviewer at Watkins Glen State Park. For less crowded experiences, the Rim Trail offers elevated views of the gorge with fewer visitors, especially before 10am.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most luxury glamping facilities operate within specific date ranges. "We just returned to philly after a long weekend here. This was our 6th consecutive summer visiting here," explains a visitor to Round Top Retreat. Most sites in the region close by mid-October and don't reopen until late April or early May.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require navigation on unpaved access roads. "The campground is cute and quiet. Staff is friendly and helpful. My only complaint is the condition of the roads. They are in dire need of grading and new gravel. Be careful!" warns a camper at Pinecreek Campground. These conditions can worsen after heavy rains.
Bathroom quality varies: Facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. "The bathrooms were messy, with a couple of toilets not flushed/clogged. Thank God shower stall in a decent condition and it was free! Nice hot waters as well," reports a visitor at Taughannock Falls State Park. Some sites have newer facilities while others maintain older structures.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature updated play areas for children. "There is a small playground for kids. The bathrooms are fairly clean and well maintained," notes a camper at Taughannock Falls State Park. The playground is situated within walking distance of most campsites in the upper loop.
Kid-friendly hiking: Look for trails specifically designed for younger hikers. "The gorge trails are also moderate and invigorating," mentions a visitor to Taughannock Falls. The main trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and relatively flat, making it manageable for children as young as 5.
Swimming options: Sites with supervised swimming areas provide safer water recreation. "The beach is wide and shallow in most areas. In close proximity to the store and snack shop (ICE CREAM)," shares a Green Lakes visitor. Most beach areas open at 11am with lifeguards present until 6pm during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: Check the location of electrical connections before setting up. "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords," advises a camper at Pinecreek Campground. Many sites require extension cords of at least 25 feet to reach power sources.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring additional equipment. "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," reports a visitor to Robert H. Treman State Park. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most RV sites in the area.
Water fill logistics: Plan for potential wait times when arriving. "There is only one source for water fill up. This could end up being a very very long wait if you arrive at the same time as other campers," notes a Sampson State Park visitor. Arriving mid-week or before noon helps avoid the longest lines at water stations.
