Camping accommodations near Hector, New York sit at elevations between 800-1,200 feet above sea level in the heart of the Finger Lakes region. The area features a mix of hardwood forests and open lake views, with average summer temperatures reaching 80-85°F during peak camping season. Fall temperatures drop to 45-60°F by October when campgrounds begin seasonal closures, making weather planning essential for pet friendly camping trips.
What to do
Hiking gorge trails: At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, the dramatic stone formations and waterfalls provide moderate difficulty trails. "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful. The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!" notes Laura L. Dogs aren't permitted on the gorge trail itself but are welcome in the campground and other trails.
Swimming in natural settings: The stream-fed swimming area at Robert H. Treman State Park Campground offers a unique experience. As one camper reports, "You can swim in the waterfall area here... the hiking trails are awesome. Don't let the beginning steps fool you, the rim trail can be very strenuous." Swimming areas typically open after late June.
Wildlife observation: Sugar Hill Fire Tower Recreation Area provides opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We pulled in just before dark to find 8 other campers already settled in. The sites were spacious. It was a cool and windy night, which made it perfect for sleeping," shares David G. Early morning and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing times.
Military history exploration: Sampson State Park includes educational exhibits about its naval training history. "It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era... If you like wildlife you may run into some animals that are indigenous to Central/Western NY," explains Brian O. The museum operates during regular park hours with no additional entry fee.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Keuka Lake State Park Campground receives consistent praise for site size. "Large, woody sites. Stay on the outside perimeter of the loops or you might have foot traffic thru your site to shower/toilet houses & water taps," recommends Rebecca E. Sites on loop edges provide the most privacy for campers with pets.
Clean facilities: Bathroom upkeep matters to pet owners after muddy hikes. "The bathroom/shower facility in our loop was modern and kept very clean. The roads leading to the sites, and within the loops, are paved, and the sites are quite level," reports Helen H. about Keuka Lake facilities.
Low-cost options: Sugar Hill Fire Tower Recreation Area offers free camping with unexpected amenities. "26 camp sites with bathrooms! That flush! Very quiet and the sites aren't on top of each other. People bring their horses. You can drive to your site and tent camp or camper camp," notes Hannah G. The site requires registration at the bathroom building kiosk.
Natural swimming areas: Taughannock Falls State Park features swimming beyond just the falls. "The campground is very walkable to the swimming area, which goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of. The hiking to the waterfall is very manageable," explains Barbara S. Swimming areas close during colder months.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the Hector area close between mid-October and early November, reopening in April or May. Watkins Glen State Park operates from "May 13 to October 10," according to their seasonal information. Call ahead if planning early spring or late fall visits.
Water hookup limitations: Taughannock Falls State Park Campground has shared utilities between sites. "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords," advises Beth. Water pressure can vary throughout the season.
Noise considerations: Buttermilk Falls experiences sound from nearby roads. One camper noted, "The road noise at night (from rt13 below) and the sound of the bathroom door slamming did not help with getting a good night sleep." Sites furthest from facilities typically offer the quietest experience.
Limited shower facilities: Smith Memorial Park has minimal shower access for tent campers. "Bathrooms are a little far from the tent sites with only one shower. This can be tough since there are a lot of seasonal sites for campers and RVs across from the tent sites using the same facilities," explains Elena C.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for temperature changes: Morning temperatures can be 20°F cooler than afternoons, especially in spring and fall. "We stayed a week and absolutely loved it! Great hiking to waterfalls, beautiful campgrounds and a large playground," shares Jennifer D. about Robert Treman Park. Pack layers for children regardless of season.
Find play areas: Sampson State Park offers multiple recreation options. "There is a museum, boat launch, pavilions, and ice cream shop on the camp ground... Maintenance crew starts around 7," notes Kate W. The playground areas provide entertainment during non-hiking time.
Look for nature programs: Several parks offer ranger-led activities during summer months. "Watkins Glen Watkins Glen is beautiful and scenic. If you enjoy hiking and scenery this is the place for you. I would describe the hikes as moderately difficult," Jennifer W. explains, adding that her 7-year-old son enjoyed every second.
Research pet restrictions: Pet friendly camping near Hector varies by trail access. One camper at Buttermilk Falls noted, "Dogs are allowed but they are not allowed on the gorge trail. I'm ok with this I just wish I had known before we got there." Always check pet policies before booking.
Tips from RVers
Plan for fill-up logistics: At Finger Lakes RV Resort, water management is streamlined. "The water pressure is great. The bath house is new and very comfortable. Each site has a picnic table, a fire ring and lots of room for big rigs," notes Steve A. This newer facility has easier access than older state parks.
Reserve electric sites early: Electric sites book quickly during peak season. "We stayed in the non-electric loop with a small travel trailer, but there are electric sites available. Spigots for water are spaced well enough that with a few lengths you can fill up," explains Joseph B. about Keuka Lake.
Check site dimensions: Not all parks accommodate larger RVs. "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," warns Victoria about Robert Treman State Park. Call campgrounds directly to confirm exact site measurements.
Consider dump station timing: During busy checkout periods, wait times can exceed 30 minutes. "Only 2 dump stations. They don't allow pull-in camping. Campers MUST be backed in," notes Amanda K. about Sampson State Park. Plan accordingly for departure timing.
