Cabin accommodations in the Finger Lakes region near Hector, New York range from rustic to modern units. State parks like Watkins Glen and Robert H. Treman offer cabins with various amenities, while private campgrounds provide additional options. Most cabins require advance reservations, with peak season running May through October when temperatures average 70-85°F during summer days.
What to do
Gorge hiking: Watkins Glen State Park Campground features 19 waterfalls accessible via the famous Gorge Trail. "The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!" notes Laura L. The park offers interconnected trails for all skill levels, including the Rim Trail for elevated views of the gorge.
Swimming in natural pools: Taughannock Falls State Park Campground provides lake access with a swimming area reaching 12 feet deep. "The swimming area goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of," reports Barbara S. This creates a refreshing option after hiking to view the park's namesake waterfall.
Visit nearby attractions: The region offers multiple activities beyond camping. "There is a Farm Sanctuary that my son very much enjoyed. There are Stables nearby where you can book a trail ride," mentions Jennifer W. from Watkins Glen. Most attractions are within a 30-minute drive of major campgrounds.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Sampson State Park Campground offers generous campsites with electric hookups. "Spacious campsites, electric and water hook ups. Bathhouses are clean," reports Michele D. The park also features cabins that sleep 3-4 people in single rooms.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers appreciate the condition of campground facilities. "The bathrooms were nice with multiple free, hot showers. I believe there were separate dishwashing sinks inside the restrooms," notes Emma N. about Robert H. Treman State Park Campground.
Lake views: Many cabin campers value proximity to water. "Our site was nicely shaded and across from the small lake. The showers were hot and the facilities were clean," remarks Katie K. about Sned Acres Campground. Lake views provide scenic backdrops for morning coffee or evening relaxation.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, especially during summer months. At Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground, visitors should "Reserve ahead of time in summer," advises Harry H. Reservations often open 9 months in advance through the New York State Parks reservation system.
Cabin amenities vary widely: Some cabins offer bare necessities while others provide more comforts. "Our cabin was barebones but it was clean, had a TV, small refrigerator, a bunk bed and full. Plenty of room for two people!" explains a reviewer about Watkins Glen/Corning KOA.
Seasonal considerations: Not all facilities operate year-round. "One thing that we were kind of disappointed in, is that the campground pool doesn't open until the end of June," notes Jennifer W. Similarly, cabin availability may be limited outside the main season from May through October.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pinecreek Campground provides recreational facilities for children. "Family friendly, beautiful atmosphere, nice roomy sites, great pool and kids get to ride their bikes all over and feel safe," explains Stephen B. Consider requesting cabin sites near playgrounds for easier supervision.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer learning experiences. "Lots of educational posters along the way to keep you informed of what you were seeing and the history about how it was created," reports Steve W. about Taughannock Falls. These features help engage children while hiking.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds provide organized activities. At Paradise Park Campground, "Daily activities including hay rides and a bunch of decorated wagons being towed by 4 wheeler for the kids," notes John L. These structured activities can supplement family-led adventures.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When booking cabins or RV sites, note the utility placement. "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords," advises Beth at Taughannock Falls State Park.
Road conditions: Internal campground roads vary in quality. "The roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," reports Laura L. about Watkins Glen State Park. This information helps travelers with larger vehicles plan accordingly.
Utility arrangements: At Robert H. Treman State Park, "Some sites have shared fresh water hookup between the sites," explains Jennifer D. Understanding these arrangements helps prevent surprises upon arrival and allows campers to prepare appropriate equipment.
