Best Campgrounds near Ithaca, NY

Camping near Ithaca, NY, offers a mix of stunning natural beauty and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something to offer.

What to do

• Hiking: Explore the breathtaking trails at Watkins Glen State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The access to Watkins Glen! My site was in Loop D which has a direct hiking trail to the trail along Watkins Glen!"
• Water Activities: Enjoy paddleboarding or swimming at Green Lakes State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "We went paddleboarding... You can paddle down to Hector Falls and see it from the water."
• Sightseeing: Check out the nearby waterfalls and wineries. One reviewer at Keuka Lake State Park Campground said, "The lake is clean and clear, great for fishing, boating, and swimming."

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Chenango Valley State Park Campground noted, "The grounds and bathrooms are very well maintained."
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites that provide a sense of privacy. One camper at Sampson State Park Campground mentioned, "Most sites are pretty spacious."
• Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Watkins Glen / Corning KOA have plenty of activities for kids. A family shared, "The campground and showers were clean... there were some things that didn't work... but the area was absolutely gorgeous."

What you should know

• Limited Privacy: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Taughannock Falls State Park Campground said, "The sites were also very close to each other and rather shallow, thereby limiting privacy."
• Basic Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. A visitor at Robert H. Treman State Park Campground mentioned, "The dumping station is lacking but overall nice park."
• Road Noise: Some sites are near roads, which can be noisy. A camper at Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground noted, "The campground is amazing... but the road noise was distracting."

Tips for camping with families

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. One family at Sampson State Park Campground highlighted, "Lots to do with a couple of playgrounds, guarded swimming area, kayak rentals."
• Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds have limited food options. A visitor at Green Lakes State Park Campground mentioned, "There’s a lot to do here... but you cannot reach the lakes from the rolling meadow campground without a car."
• Bring Entertainment: If your kids need downtime, pack games or books. A camper at Watkins Glen State Park Campground suggested, "It’s peaceful and easier to enjoy and take photos."

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Accessibility: Some sites may not be suitable for larger RVs. A visitor at Keuka Lake State Park Campground noted, "The only downside I could mention is if you are looking for Full hook up you are out of luck."
• Bring Extension Cords: Power poles can be far from sites. A camper at Sampson State Park Campground advised, "The power poles are between sites and are often more than 20’ away."
• Plan for Dump Station Waits: Some campgrounds have limited dump stations. A visitor at Chenango Valley State Park Campground mentioned, "The dump station is big and easy access."

Camping in Ithaca, NY, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while making lasting memories. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.