Tent camping near Hammondsport, New York offers access to multiple lakes within the Finger Lakes system, with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet throughout the region. Most campgrounds maintain operation from April through October, with limited winter camping options at select locations like Gardner Hill Campground. The region's diverse soil conditions create varied tent pad surfaces ranging from packed gravel to natural forest floor.
What to do
Kayaking on multiple lakes: Visitors can access two pristine lakes from Holiday Hill Campground, where one camper noted "Hemlock and Canadice Lake so close by" with "tons to do in the area but town isn't too far." Both lakes have public launches within 3 miles of the campground.
Canal-side activities: The Erie Canal provides unique recreational opportunities with Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort offering direct access. As one camper described, "Kayak launches and boat marina nearby" with "kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area and the pool." The campground enforces a strict 5 mph speed limit throughout.
Fishing access: River fishing options complement the lake activities around Hammondsport. One camper at Riverside Park Campground described their site as "Private. Quiet. River" with grounds that were "well kept" and "exceeded expectations." Most river sites require anglers to have valid New York state fishing licenses.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The best tent camping near Hammondsport, New York offers varying levels of seclusion. A camper at Empire Haven described their experience: "The campground is as quiet and peaceful as anyone would like, but the community enables campers the freedom to socialize and share meals whenever you want to reach beyond the family who came with you."
Clean facilities: Cleanliness consistently ranks as a top priority. At Red's Twilight on the Erie, a camper noted that "Barb and Red are fantastic hosts. They are accommodating and entertaining. Live music on Friday Night (weather permitting) and plenty of activities for the family on the weekends."
Management responsiveness: Friendly staff create positive experiences at the tent sites near Hammondsport. At Riverside Park Campground, a camper shared that "Cathy was great. Totally laid back, super helpful." This personalized attention compensates for limited amenities at some of the smaller operations.
What you should know
Campsite leveling challenges: Finding flat tent sites can be difficult in the hilly Finger Lakes terrain. One camper at Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort warned that "Almost all of the sites are not even close to level. Not a big issue with a fifth wheel but a real hassle with a motorcoach." Tent campers should bring leveling blocks or select sites carefully.
Seasonal differences: Most campgrounds near Hammondsport operate seasonally. Red's Twilight on the Erie runs from April 15 to October 31, while Holiday Hill operates May 1 to October 14. Off-season camping means fewer crowds but limited amenities and potential weather challenges.
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. Holiday Hill Campground reports "Verizon reception is consistent at 3 bars," though service drops in more remote locations near Hammondsport, particularly in ravines and valleys.
Tips for camping with families
Speed restrictions: Safety-conscious campgrounds implement strict driving rules. At Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, "The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it.... Kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area and the pool far enough from the campsites but close to the store and watchful eye of the staff."
Entertainment options: Weekend programming keeps children engaged. A visitor to Red's Twilight noted "Live music on Friday Night (weather permitting) and plenty of activities for the family on the weekends." Most organized activities run Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Noise considerations: Site selection impacts noise exposure. At Holiday Hill Campground, a camper advised "There is a lot to do for kids & teens, but that makes it loud with kids running through your site. So if that bothers you, plan ahead to get a site away from the main area."
Tips from RVers
Site maneuverability: The rolling terrain around Hammondsport creates backing challenges. A Holiday Hill Campground visitor noted "We had to maneuver a lot to back our 25' trailer into a tight spot, but sites are clean and spacious side to side." Most tent-friendly campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs but may present difficulties for units over 30 feet.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites book quickly during peak season. At Holiday Hill Campground, "There seemed to be a lot of regulars and seasonal sites here, which meant that short term full hook up sites were harder to get." Reservations should be made 3-6 months in advance for prime summer weekends.
Development status: Some campgrounds continue expanding services. At Gardner Hill Campground, a visitor described the atmosphere as "No frills but very comfy and nice views." Similarly, Red's Twilight was described as having "potential" with owners who are "really working hard to get this place up to speed."
