The Finger Lakes region where Hornell sits ranges from 950 to 2,000 feet in elevation with rolling hills and valleys formed by glacial activity. Camping options around Hornell feature diverse terrain with several parks situated alongside lakes and ponds. Fall camping season typically runs late September through mid-October with daytime temperatures averaging 60-70°F and nighttime lows in the 40s.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 35-45 minutes from most Hornell campgrounds. Letchworth State Park Campground features multiple waterfalls within a 17-mile stretch. "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," notes Rebecca E.
Vineyard visits: Walking paths available from select parks. Finger Lakes RV Resort offers direct access to local wineries. "They are bookended by two wineries with walking paths from the campground," shares Craig F. "Easy drive to Watkins Glen, Lake Seneca, Ithaca, and the greater Finger Lakes region," adds Matt S.
Fishing: Catfish commonly caught in local ponds. Jones Pond Campground provides shoreline access for anglers. "These sites are great for camping, kayaking, fishing (plenty of catfish!), and watching loons, herons, and bald eagles," according to Madison W.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between parks. Campers consistently praise the maintenance at several RV campgrounds near Hornell. "The bath house is immaculate and rivals those at Fort Wilderness Resort," notes Craig F. about Finger Lakes RV Resort. Madison W. mentions Jones Pond Campground has "two backwoods privies in the campground."
Spacious sites: Site dimensions vary between parks. Several campgrounds offer larger-than-average sites. "The campground sites are very large and spread out," writes Steve A. "Being a newer campground, the trees are small, but that did not take away from the experience."
Seasonal activities: Special events typically run May-October. Jellystone Park of Western New York hosts holiday-themed weekends. "Our favorite time of year to visit is around Halloween. They always have great activities and trick or treating with the kids," mentions Erica L. Another camper adds, "We went on the 4th of July and they had amazing fireworks and activities galore for the kids."
What you should know
Wi-Fi quality: Signal strength varies by location. Some parks offer reliable connectivity while others have minimal service. "Excellent Wi-Fi, large sites, level and graveled parking pad," reports Kathleen R. at Finger Lakes RV Resort. Another camper confirms, "Wifi was strong enough to do work calls."
Site accessibility: Vehicle clearance matters at select parks. Jones Pond Campground requires appropriate vehicles for certain sites. "You will need a high clearance vehicle to access site 3-6 due to a rough, poorly maintained jeep road," warns Madison W.
Reservation timing: Fall foliage increases demand. Letchworth State Park fills quickly during peak seasons. "This is a popular park so make reservations," advises Amber A. "We checked in at an entrance building that they're using until their primary building is complete. We were greeted with delicious cookies, our site(#9) backs up to a wooded area with a lot of space. We booked early, which was a good thing because they were 100% full for Indigenous People's Day," notes Steve A.
Tips for camping with families
Activity selection: Consider age-appropriate options. Hickory Hill Camping Resort offers numerous included amenities. "There is a lot to do at Hickory Hill and everything is included in your site fee. They have multiple pools, a sprayground, mini golf, crafts, clean bathrooms and dog stations throughout the grounds," says Amy T.
Entertainment planning: Check campground schedules. Jellystone Park provides entertainment for different age groups. "What are the best things about this National Park is that you feel like you were in a Yogi Bear show although there is still a ton of beautiful nature to enjoy," states Jill R. "Put put was free. So many things to do with the kids. Heated pools. Beach was clean," adds Sara H.
Park facilities: Look for family-friendly amenities. Letchworth State Park offers diverse recreational options. "Within a short walk were many hiking trails, an old-school fitness path, and a stellar playground where anyone under 9 years of age should get a great workout," shares Shari G.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many parks offer different levels of privacy. Some RV campgrounds near Hornell have varying site layouts. "Getting into the site was a challenge, but doable with a 16 foot Basecamp. Had we been staying for more than one night, or arrived earlier we would have loved to utilize their fire ring!" notes Larry about Summer Haven.
Hookup verification: Check amperage and water availability. Summer Haven has limited connections. "This early in the season water was not available, but electricity was. The owners description noted a 50 amp hookup which was available, but 30 amp was not. They did have a 120v surge protector on site," reports Larry.
Seasonal planning: Many parks close for winter. Finger Lakes Campground typically operates May through October. "Roomy sites. We had a great view of the pond, which made for some breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Swimming pool and small laundry on site. Not all sites have sewer hookups, but there is a dump station on site, as well as a pump service available if you prefer," shares Linda H.
