The Henrietta, New York area encompasses several campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, making it a convenient base for exploring the Finger Lakes region. The camping season typically runs from early May through late October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and 55-65°F at night. Fall camping brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, though campsites become muddy after rainfall.
What to do
Hiking at Letchworth State Park: Located 40 miles southwest of Henrietta, Letchworth State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems connecting directly to campsites. "All are close to the gorge/river and wooded, and connect to trails directly from your campsite," notes Harry H. The park features canyon views along the Genesee River with multiple lookout points.
Swimming and beach activities: For water recreation, Hamlin Beach State Park Campground provides lake access and sandy beaches. "The park itself is pretty small (swimming & picnic), lots to do nearby though (wineries, Shakespeare Festival, Jell-o Museum). Mixed shade & sun, modern clean facilities," according to Justin S. The park includes both rocky and sandy shorelines along Lake Ontario.
Golfing options near campgrounds: Some camping areas include recreational facilities like golfing. At Genesee Country Campground, "they have golfing here and tent areas back up to the 9th hole (but still separated so you don't feel like you are right on top of it) so you can easily knock around there and do a little golfing too!" mentions Randall K.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at Monroe County Webster Park. "Small little park with few amenities on Lake Ontario. Sites are spacious, however specific to size of camper. This is a hidden gem for those of us who live close for short weekend trips," says Kimberly R. The campground offers electric hookups and a dump station.
Easy access to Lake Ontario: Waterfront locations rank high among camper preferences. "I took the family camping to this State Park in the tenting area. The camp sites are a mixture of shade and sun making the experience very enjoyable where you will NOT bake in the sun every daylight hour. It has a beautiful well groomed sandy white beach fully staffed by certified lifeguards," writes Brian O. about Hamlin Beach State Park.
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness matters to campers visiting the Henrietta area. At Southwoods RV Resort, "Bathrooms were very clean. Quiet campground. Lots of plays areas for kids. Weekend sites would be pretty tight together if they were fully booked," Sydney W. reports. This campground operates from May through October.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Despite proximity to urban areas, connectivity varies significantly at campgrounds near Henrietta. At Webster Park, "Cell phone coverage is poor by Verizon and T-Mobile, and there is no WiFi, and no camp store (but the town of Webster is nearby)," notes Carl C. Consider downloading maps in advance if you need navigation.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra equipment for comfortable setup. At Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, "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," reports Donna C.
Weather impacts: Weather conditions affect camping experiences, particularly regarding smoke and rain. "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," Jeff A. mentions about Letchworth State Park. Many campgrounds experience muddy conditions after rainfall.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds and activities: Family-oriented campgrounds offer dedicated recreation areas. At Southwoods RV Resort, "The campground has lots of amenities like two swimming pools, nice camp store (with lots of food, souvenirs, and gifts), a large playground, miniature golf, sand volleyball and basketball courts, large recreation hall/wedding venue, bicycle track, and game room," Nancy W. describes.
Consider privacy levels for families: When camping with children, site privacy becomes important. At Creek n Wood, "A pavilion on site offers a sink and refrigerator to use (must label with name), FREE games (pool table, foosball, cards, Cornhole, etc). Don't feel like bringing/setting up the grill? They have you covered.... Use their full size grills on site!" reports Sheri S.
Look for swimming options: During summer months, water recreation provides essential family activities. "Quiet relaxing atmosphere, lots of hiking trails and family friendly with parks and a pool for the kids to play," Lisa M. says about Letchworth State Park, which provides swimming facilities from late May through early September.
Tips from RVers
Water and electric access: For RVers, hookup locations and access matter. At Monroe County Webster Park, "We had an electric hook-up for our 17' travel trailer. Two-headed water spigots are shared by 2 sites, which worked reasonably well; we were glad we had an extra hose to reach back to our camper," shares Craig J. Always check hookup positions before setting up.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "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," explains Sheri S. about Creek n Wood campground.
Site selection for larger rigs: RV size determines appropriate site selection at the best places to camp near Henrietta. "The campground has separate sections for seasonal and transient campers and has a variety of different campsites from back-ins to pull-thrus, 50 to 30-amps, and full hook-up to water and electric only," notes Nancy W. about Southwoods RV Resort.
