The Finger Lakes region offers over 50 RV campgrounds near Jacksonville, New York, with most located within a 30-mile radius of Seneca and Cayuga Lakes. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during peak camping season, with evening temperatures cooling to 55-65°F. The area's glacial-carved landscape creates distinctive terrain features that impact campsite selection.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 35-minute drive from Taughannock Falls State Park Campground: "The hiking to the waterfall is very manageable. There is also at least 2 other state parks within 30 minutes to visit if you have time."
Lake swimming: Access from campground at Smith Memorial Park: "Great for swimming, and I saw some people out on the lake with their boats. The beach is nice and is pretty close to the campground, within walking distance."
Winery tours: Walking paths available from some campgrounds: "Walking paths from the campground to two different wineries. We went to a great brewing company for dinner one night," notes a camper at Smith Memorial Park.
Winter exploration: Year-round options at Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground: "Been here in all the seasons, each is beautiful. Grab your snow shoes for a winter adventure. Great cabins for rent here!"
What campers like
Privacy levels vary significantly: "The upper part of the campground is pretty private, while the lower end near the entrance/exit is more open," reports a camper at Taughannock Falls State Park.
Clean facilities: Above-average bathhouses at some RV parks near Jacksonville. "The bath house is immaculate and rivals those at Fort Wilderness Resort," notes a visitor at Finger Lakes RV Resort.
Natural swimming areas: Unique water features at certain parks: "The falls are always fun, despite the lack of impressive height. The fact they're integrated into the swimming area is a unique feature," explains a camper at Buttermilk Falls.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: "Deer outside the tent, wildflowers through summer, great leaves in fall," mentions a Buttermilk Falls camper.
What you should know
Seasonal variations in availability: Most Finger Lakes campgrounds operate May through October, but some offer limited winter options. "Been here in all the seasons, each is beautiful," notes a Buttermilk Falls visitor.
Site privacy considerations: "Sites are not very private but I have encountered very nice neighbors every time so it hasn't been an issue," reports a camper at Smith Memorial Park.
Road noise at certain locations: "The road noise at night (from rt13 below) and the sound of the bathroom door slamming did not help with getting a good night sleep," warns a camper at Buttermilk Falls.
Bath facility availability: "Bathrooms are a little far from the tent sites with only one shower. This can be tough since there are a lot of seasonal sites for campers and RVs across from the tent sites using the same facilities," notes a Smith Memorial Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options for children: "The kids had a great time. The bathroom and shower house are very rustic which I loved," shares a visitor at Aspen Family Campground.
Park amenities for various ages: "From boating, to giant swimming inflatables, putt putt even a giant slide. All part of the price of the campground," explains a camper at Pine Valley RV Park.
Educational trails: "Lots of educational posters along the way to keep you informed of what you were seeing and the history about how it was created," notes a visitor to Taughannock Falls, highlighting learning opportunities for children.
Activity planning considerations: "Reserve ahead of time in summer. Lots of woods, wildlife here and in the many other state parks close by to keep all ages occupied," advises a Buttermilk Falls camper.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility variations: "Easy maneuverability, great wifi and water pressure, along with level sites make it a great place to stay," reports an RV camper at Finger Lakes RV Resort.
Tree coverage considerations: "There's no shade from trees or otherwise. If you're visiting during summer, be sure your air conditioning and awnings are working," cautions a visitor to Finger Lakes RV Resort.
Dog-friendly facilities: "Our site was spacious and the dog park gave our pups plenty of time off leash. We definitely plan on returning," shares a Finger Lakes RV Resort camper.
Rig size compatibility: Check campground specifications before booking as some RV campgrounds near Jacksonville are better suited for specific vehicle lengths. "The hill you climb to the camp sites is riddled with pot holes," notes a Buttermilk Falls visitor, highlighting access challenges for larger rigs.
