RV camping options near Hemlock, New York center around the western Finger Lakes region where elevations range from 700 to 1,100 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in this area follow a May through October seasonal schedule due to harsh winter conditions. Average summer temperatures reach 80°F with cooler 50-60°F nights making campfires practical even in summer months.
What to do
Water activities on Seneca Lake: Finger Lakes RV Resort provides convenient lake access with walking paths to two adjacent wineries. "Amazing RV park! Located about 1/3 of the way up the eastern side of Seneca Lake, the location provides easy access to the wineries, distilleries, and breweries along the lake," notes camper Craig F.
Visit Letchworth State Park: Often called the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park Campground features three major waterfalls within a dramatic river gorge. "The gorge is spectacular. Try to get to the balloon fest on Memorial Day - and book a flight if you can. Voted Best State Park in the USA," says Rebecca E.
Explore the Erie Canal: Canal access points near Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort allow for kayaking or walking historic towpaths. "Kayak launches and boat marina nearby. The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it.... Kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area," reports Rachel T.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: The newer Finger Lakes RV Resort receives consistent praise for maintenance. "This is a family owned campground and the owners were very friendly and took pride in their business. The bath house is immaculate and rivals those at Fort Wilderness Resort," writes Craig F.
Family-friendly environment: Southwoods RV Resort offers organized activities for all ages. "Southwoods is a beautiful campground and accommodates campers of all ages. 2 well kept pools, playgrounds, laundry facilities, mini golf, soccer, basketball. The employees are so helpful and nice," shares Hope C.
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the generous spacing at newer resorts. "Easy maneuverability, great wifi and water pressure, along with level sites make it a great place to stay," according to Craig F. at Finger Lakes RV Resort, while at Southwoods, Kerry W. notes it has a "Quiet, Clean, Nice Gardens and Huge Field For Kids."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most RV parks near Hemlock close for winter, typically from late October through April. Southwoods RV Resort runs from May 1 to October 31, while Twilight on the Erie operates April 15 to October 31.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require significant leveling. At Twilight on the Erie, Donna C. reports: "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. We changed sites three times and finally resigned ourselves to not being leveled."
Limited shade at newer facilities: Stay Bristol Woodlands and other newer campgrounds have young trees offering minimal shade. One camper at Finger Lakes RV Resort advises: "There's no shade from trees or otherwise. If you're visiting during the summer, be sure your air conditioning and awnings are working."
Tips for camping with families
Well-equipped playgrounds: Southwoods RV Resort features extensive play areas. "Lots of plays areas for kids. Weekend sites would be pretty tight together if they were fully booked," notes Sydney W.
Swimming options: Multiple pools provide summer cooling options. "We have been staying at this Jewel of a campground for years. The new owners have brought this place to a new level Great amenities, real Wi-Fi and a great pool," says Donald R. about Stay Bristol Woodlands.
Educational opportunities: Letchworth State Park offers natural learning experiences. "The scenery is remarkable, and there is a lot of informative boards, dedicated benches that provide a lot of interesting history and information," shares Seth S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: For extended stays, seek level sites with proper utility placement. At Finger Lakes RV Resort, Steve A. advises: "We chose site #9 because there was a lot of room around it and we're used to really tightly packed RV parks. But what we found is that all of the sites are very nicely spread out with generous spacing."
Utility considerations: Water pressure varies significantly between parks. "We chose a back-in 50-amp full hook-up site at $42/night. All the utilities were placed appropriately so we didn't need any extensions. The water pressure and electric were good," reports Nancy W. about Southwoods RV Resort.
Internet reliability: WiFi performance depends on campground occupancy. Steve A. notes at Finger Lakes RV Resort: "The WiFi is strong and consistent," while at Stay Bristol Woodlands, Donald R. confirms they have "real Wi-Fi."
