The Hemlock, New York area sits at approximately 1,250 feet elevation, positioned in a valley surrounded by hills that reach over 2,000 feet. This geographic setting creates distinct seasonal conditions, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Camping spots near Hemlock offer a mix of wooded sites and open meadow areas, with several locations providing access to the neighboring Finger Lakes and their watersheds.
What to Do
Gorge hiking trails: Stony Brook State Park Campground offers exceptional gorge trails with multiple waterfalls. "The gorge trail is very busy but you still can enjoy the beautiful waterfalls along with the gorge formation. We also did the east trail that goes up to the top of the gorge and is also a little further into the woods. It was much quieter up there and the views looking down from there were breathtaking," notes one visitor.
Lake activities: At Keuka Lake State Park Campground, you'll find water-based recreation options. "Large grassy sites with privacy between the sites. The hike to the beach wasn't too bad through the woods, with ones being a grassy walking path and the other being a dirt trail through the woods," explains a camper who enjoyed the park's water access.
Outdoor games: Many campgrounds in the region provide recreation facilities. A visitor to Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill shared: "Numerous pavilions that are wonderful for parties or weddings. Stunning overlook that is breathtaking. Hiking, bike trails, fishing pond, playground, open fields for sports, much more!"
What Campers Like
Privacy between campsites: The camping areas near Hemlock vary in terms of site separation. At Keuka Lake State Park, "The sites are large and many have electric. Mature trees surround campsites and separate the loops from each other," according to a regular visitor.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses. "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," notes a reviewer at Keuka Lake State Park Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Letchworth State Park Campground and surrounding areas offer opportunities to see local fauna. "Deer, chipmunks and rabbits will say hi in the early and late hours," mentions a visitor to Ontario County Park, highlighting the natural setting many visitors appreciate.
What You Should Know
Elevation changes: Many campgrounds in the area feature significant terrain variation. "The campground is on a very steep hill so it is difficult to walk around," notes a visitor to Conesus Lake Campground. Consider bringing walking poles or renting transportation options when available.
Weather variability: Even in summer, temperatures can fluctuate significantly. A July 2023 visitor to Letchworth State Park noted: "Beautiful state park, very lush green from all the rain unfortunately the smoke from the Canadian fires near have made it unhealthy here, especially strenuous outdoor activities."
Reservation requirements: During peak season (late June through August), securing spots in advance is necessary. At Stony Brook State Park Campground, a visitor advises: "This is a popular park so make reservations."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground facilities: Several camping locations near Hemlock feature areas specifically designed for children. One family visiting Canandaigua-Rochester KOA reported: "Our first KOA stop, so can't compare to other KOAs, but this place has a good number of family activities and events. Our 3 and 5 year olds really enjoyed the jump pad and woods obstacles."
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas. "This KOA has all that you need for a relaxing family trip. It is close to the finger lakes, is clean, has kid activities and a pond where the fish are easy to catch with hotdogs!" shares a family-oriented reviewer.
Safety considerations: Campgrounds with gorge features require extra attention with children. At Stony Brook State Park, be prepared for "a lot of steps. It also felt like the hike was 'up hill both ways'. Good workout though. The trails were clean and well established."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain at several campgrounds. "Only downside is that the RV sites don't have much shade but the tent sites do. Also make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level," advises an RV camper at Ontario County Park.
Hookup locations: At some camping spots, utility connections may be placed unconventionally. A visitor to Creek n wood observed: "Sites have picnic table, fire ring, Adirondack chairs, water and electric hookup, and a dump station to use on your way out. If you stay for an extended period, they offer free emptying at your site."
Road access challenges: Larger RVs should research access routes beforehand. "We had to maneuver a lot to back our 25' trailer into a tight spot, but sites are clean and spacious side to side," notes a camper staying at a Hemlock area campground.
