Tent campgrounds near Henrietta, New York offer diverse camping experiences within driving distance of the city. Most sites are located within 30-45 minutes of town, with options ranging from canal-side camping to farm settings. The region experiences warm summers with average highs of 80°F in July and August, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season for most visitors.
What to do
Water activities on the Erie Canal: Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort provides direct access to canal recreation with nearby kayak launches and a boat marina. "Kayak launches and boat marina nearby. The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it," notes Rachel T., who appreciates the family-friendly atmosphere.
Hiking regional trails: The Springwater area contains multiple trail systems ideal for day hikes. A visitor to Holiday Hill Campground mentioned, "The campground has clean bathrooms and Verizon reception is consistent at 3 bars." This consistent cell service allows hikers to navigate trails with mapping apps.
Seasonal activities: Warsaw's Dream Lake Campground organizes regular weekend events throughout their May-October season. According to Nick O., "Weekend activities. The snack house food is great, if you don't feel like cooking they offer a nice menu almost anyone would love."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. At Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, Amy T. reports, "The pool is nice and staff friendly. Clean bathrooms with activity and entertainment on site and near by."
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate having adequate room between sites. Terry F. notes about Holiday Hill Campground, "Sites are clean and spacious side to side," though also mentioning they "had to maneuver a lot to back our 25' trailer into a tight spot."
Entertainment options: On-site activities keep campers engaged without leaving the grounds. Robyn M. shares her experience at Dream Lake Campground: "Very family friendly lots of activities been going here 6 years now and never have had a bad time."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through October due to weather conditions. Holiday Hill Campground runs from May 1 to October 14, while Dream Lake Campground extends slightly longer, from May 1 to October 25.
Site conditions: Leveling can be an issue at some locations. At The PineApple Farm, primitive tent sites offer a more rustic experience with basic amenities including drinking water, showers and toilet facilities.
Ownership management: Campground ownership significantly impacts the overall experience. Donna C. observes about Twilight on the Erie, "I know they are really working hard to get this place up to speed and I hope they continue to improve it."
Tips for camping with families
Dedicated play areas: Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort features "an enormous play area and the pool far enough from the campsites but close to the store and watchful eye of the staff," according to Rachel T., making supervision easier for parents.
Weekend programming: Family-oriented activities concentrate on weekends at most campgrounds. Terri H. from Holiday Hill Campground reports, "Wonderful owners, tons of activities for kids and adults. The sites are spacious and very well kept."
Child safety considerations: Camp layout and traffic rules affect family safety. At Cold Weather Camping in the Finger Lakes, walk-in tent sites provide additional separation from vehicles, creating safer play environments for children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Finding level sites can be problematic for larger RVs. Donna C. advises about Twilight on the Erie, "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."
Seasonal site availability: Long-term campers occupy many prime spots during peak season. Terry F. notes, "There seemed to be a lot of regulars and seasonal sites here, which meant that short term full hook up sites were harder to get."
Booking considerations: Reservation systems vary between campgrounds. Holiday Hill Campground receives praise for its "Online booking was seamless," making it easier to secure the best tent camping near Henrietta, New York.
