Camping cabins near Horseheads, New York provide access to the Southern Finger Lakes region, which sits at elevations between 800-1,200 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter lows reaching below freezing. Fall visitors can expect colorful foliage displays from late September through mid-October when cabin availability increases as summer crowds diminish.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: The Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park Campground features 19 waterfalls and stone walkways suitable for moderate hikers. "The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!" notes Laura L. The trail includes numerous steps but offers "walkway in between them so it's not just up up up more steps," according to Jennifer W.
Lake swimming access: Taughannock Falls State Park provides swimming areas with deep water options. "The campground is very walkable to the swimming area, which goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of," reports Barbara S. The park combines water recreation with hiking opportunities within a 30-minute drive from Horseheads.
Fishing ponds: Several campgrounds maintain stocked fishing areas for visitors staying in cabins. "Catch and Release Pond was lots of fun," writes Martha B. about Pinecreek Campground. These fishing areas provide relaxing activities directly on property without needing to travel to larger lakes.
What campers like
Modern bathroom facilities: Cabin campers appreciate access to clean shower houses at Robert H. Treman State Park Campground. "Bathrooms were clean with multiple free, hot showers. I believe there were separate dishwashing sinks inside the restrooms," notes Emma N. Many reviewers mention bathroom cleanliness as an important factor in their camping experience.
Quiet wooded settings: Cabins at state parks typically offer more privacy than commercial campgrounds. "The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between," notes Laura L. about Watkins Glen State Park. Similarly, at Buttermilk Falls, campsites are "tree lined giving to a bit of privacy. As much as you get in campgrounds," according to Lindsay C.
On-site amenities: Camp Bell Campground provides family-friendly facilities near cabin accommodations. "Kids enjoyed the the big playground and mini arcade. Has a large pool for swimming and fun activities," reports Nick O. Many cabins in the region are positioned within walking distance of swimming pools, playgrounds, and camp stores.
What you should know
Variable cabin standards: Cabin types range from rustic to modern across different properties. At Hills Creek State Park Campground, "The modern cabins have a kitchen with the usual plus a microwave, toaster and coffee pot," according to Barbara S. Determine exact amenities before booking as standards vary widely between parks.
Water quality concerns: Some properties have issues with water systems. At Ferenbaugh Campground, one camper noted, "The only bad comment I would make is there water is very smelly and brown. I actually bought a dual stage water filter and change it every two weeks." Bringing drinking water is recommended at several locations.
Reservation timing: State park cabins fill quickly during peak season. Most properties open reservations 6-12 months in advance, with holiday weekends booking immediately. Weekend cabin availability becomes extremely limited from June through August, with better options midweek or during shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Playground quality: When selecting cabin locations with children, check playground conditions. At Pinecreek Campground, one visitor noted the "Playground needs improving" despite overall positive experiences. State park playgrounds generally receive better maintenance than some private campgrounds.
Swimming options: Swimming facilities vary greatly between properties. "There is a nice pool and playgrounds. It's close to downtown Watkins glen with lots of restaurants. It is also very close to Seneca Lake where there is swimming, boating, awesome hiking," reports Danielle B. about Watkins Glen/Corning KOA.
Extra fees: Check pricing structures for children at private campgrounds. "The weekend got pretty pricey after adding our children to the site. They even charged us extra for our 8 month old," reports Sarah S. about Pinecreek Campground. State parks typically charge by site rather than per person.
Tips from RVers
Site positioning: Cabin and RV site layouts can present challenges at some parks. At Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, visitors advise to "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords."
Road conditions: Interior roads at several campgrounds require careful navigation. "The roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," notes Laura L. about Watkins Glen State Park. At Pinecreek Campground, visitors warn roads "are in dire need of grading and new gravel. Be careful!"
Campground layout: Private campgrounds often have distinct sections with different experiences. At Ferenbaugh Campground, "This CG has two distinct sections. Near the entrance is the Pull Through Area. Behind a row of trees there are several sites with full hookups including cable TV and Wi-Fi. The other sites are in the woods, most of these sites do not have sewer connections."
