Camping options around Hammondsport, New York include sites at elevations ranging from 700 feet at lakeside campgrounds to over 2,000 feet in the surrounding hills. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from early May through mid-October, with some offering extended fall camping opportunities.
What to do
Hiking gorge trails: At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, visitors can explore the famous Gorge Trail with its 19 waterfalls. "The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!" notes Laura L., who appreciated the natural formations. For those with children, the trail is accessible but requires some stamina: "I would describe the hikes as moderately difficult. The main one has a lot of steps but lots of walkway in between them so it's not just up up up more steps."
Visit military museum: Sampson State Park Campground features a unique naval museum with artifacts from WWII. Brian O. explains, "It was a Naval training base during WWll... It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era." The park combines historical education with outdoor recreation, as Amanda K. points out: "Military museum, paved loops - good for bikes and scooters."
Mountain biking: At Ontario County Park, trail systems cater to various skill levels. "Lots of trails at the park for hikers, mountain bikers and trail runners. Follow the Finger Lakes Trail all the way into town," explains Danielle P. The park's elevation provides both challenging rides and scenic rewards.
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: Stony Brook State Park Campground offers a unique swimming experience in its natural setting. Kayti D. describes it as a "'pool' carved from the mountain!" This natural feature distinguishes it from artificial pools at other campgrounds. Another camper adds, "The last day was beautiful and we spent the entire time in their natural pool."
Spacious campsites: Ontario County Park receives praise for its generous site dimensions. "Each campsite is pretty big and shady, but can get noisy," notes Harry H. Jonathan G. confirms: "Plenty of room on each site for whatever you need," though he cautions that "the RV sites don't have much shade but the tent sites do."
Wildlife viewing: Many Finger Lakes campgrounds offer opportunities to spot native animals. Sarah C. from Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill shares, "Deer, chipmunks and rabbits will say hi in the early and late hours." Bird enthusiasts particularly enjoy the region, with one camper noting, "A great park for bird watching. Particularly if you like Blue Jays. I couldn't get over how many there were!"
What you should know
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have water issues worth noting. At Ferenbaugh Campground, one camper warns, "Make sure you use a water filter, there was a lot of sediment in the water when we were there." Another camper elaborates: "The only bad comment I would make is there water is very smelly and brown. I actually bought a dual stage water filter and change it every two weeks."
Reservation requirements: Popularity demands planning, especially for holiday weekends. "This campground keeps growing. I've camped here for 20+ years and they have always been great," notes Amy T., suggesting securing spots well in advance. For glamping near Hammondsport, New York, bookings often fill 3-6 months ahead.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. Jonathan G. advises: "Also make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level." This is particularly important at the hillier campgrounds in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Watkins Glen / Corning KOA provides extensive recreation options for children. "Super kind people who work there. Great amenities. Climbing wall, pool, putt putt, giant bouncy thing. Basketball hoop, playground," reports Amy H. Another family notes, "Lots of activities for kids and families on site and near by."
Child-friendly swimming: Many families appreciate graduated swim areas for different ages. At Sampson State Park, you'll find a "nice little beach and swimming area; water was very clean," according to Stephanie C. The beach has lifeguards during summer months, adding peace of mind for parents.
Nature education opportunities: Several campgrounds offer informal learning experiences. Jennifer W. mentions, "Also a short Drive away is a Farm Sanctuary that my son very much enjoyed." These hands-on experiences connect children with local ecology and agriculture.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At Sampson State Park, RVers should note the utility arrangement. Amanda K. warns, "Electric service boxes are shared in-between sites. This could pose an issue if your power cord is not long enough." Planning for extension cords can prevent frustration upon arrival.
Maneuvering space: Navigation through some campgrounds requires care for larger rigs. Laura L. from Watkins Glen State Park notes, "We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves." Measuring your turning radius before booking helps avoid difficult situations.
Dump station access: RVers should plan for potentially limited facilities. "There is only 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. Only 2 dump stations," reports Amanda K. about Sampson State Park. Arriving during off-peak hours can minimize waiting time.
