Cabin rentals near Lansing, New York provide access to the southern end of Cayuga Lake, with elevations ranging from 400-1,200 feet above sea level throughout the surrounding area. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Cabin camping options span from rustic accommodations with minimal amenities to fully-equipped units with kitchen facilities.
What to do
Waterfall swimming: At Robert H. Treman State Park Campground, visitors can swim in designated waterfall areas during summer months. "You can swim in the waterfall area here. Need I say more? Actually, it can be VERY busy in the summer time in the swimming area, making it difficult to find your own 'space.' However, the hiking trails are awesome," notes Matt G.
Hiking gorge trails: The Watkins Glen State Park Campground offers dramatic gorge scenery with multiple hiking options. "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful. The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. The gorge trail is a MUST," recommends Laura L. Most trails are moderate difficulty but accessible to various skill levels.
Seasonal outdoor activities: The region offers year-round recreational opportunities. "Went in the fall, very quiet, and peaceful. Woke to snow on the tent. Had a great time listening to the birds and enjoying the trails," says Scott M. of his Robert H. Treman State Park experience. Winter visitors can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on many of the same trails used for summer hiking.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Taughannock Falls State Park Campground receives praise for its upkeep and amenities. "This is a beautiful campground. The bathrooms are fairly clean and well maintained. For washing dishes there is a sink in each bathroom. The campground is very walkable to the swimming area, which goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of," explains Barbara S.
Privacy between sites: Site selection varies significantly across campgrounds. "The upper part of the campground is pretty private, while the lower end near the entrance/exit is more open," notes Barbara S. about Taughannock Falls. At Watkins Glen, Lindsay C. observes, "The campsites are great and are all tree lined giving to a bit of privacy. As much as you get in campgrounds."
Cabin options for non-tenters: Various cabin accommodations suit different comfort preferences. "I stay here usually once or twice a year and spend my weekends hiking the various gorge trails nearby. Tent camping is nice here. The sites are good sized, they offer cabins as well," notes Deb S. about Watkins Glen State Park.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Campground layouts vary significantly. At Fillmore Glen State Park Campground, "The sites in the middle section of the campground don't really have designated boundaries, while those around the edges are more traditionally divided. There is literally no privacy between any of the sites," according to Shari G.
Seasonal challenges: Weather and timing impact experience quality. "The campground pool doesn't open until the end of June," notes Jennifer W. about Watkins Glen. Another camper mentioned, "The swimming area was closed for the season by the time we arrived" at Robert H. Treman in September.
Road noise factors: Location within campgrounds affects noise levels. One reviewer noted at Buttermilk Falls, "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." Consider requesting sites further from main roads or facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Pinecreek Campground offers family-oriented amenities. "Beautiful setting...loved the sunsets, kid friendly, pool well maintained, Catch and Release Pond was lots of fun...the store is big and plentiful!!" reports Martha B. The campground features a swimming pool and fishing opportunities.
Playground access: Many campgrounds offer recreation facilities. "There is a huge new playground for the kids and lots of area to walk around the loops if you don't want to hike the gorge trail," notes Lindsay C. about Watkins Glen State Park. Shari G. adds that Fillmore Glen has "a playground at the far end of it so parents can keep an eye on the kids while enjoying time with their friends and family."
Family-appropriate hiking: When selecting hiking trails with children, consider difficulty levels. "I would describe the hikes as moderately difficult. The main one has a lot of steps but lots of walkway in between them so it's not just up up up more steps," explains Jennifer W. about Watkins Glen, adding that her "7 year old son enjoyed every second of this."
Tips from RVers
Site size and layout: At Sned Acres Campground, RVers note space considerations. "The only thing that would make Sned better is a little more spacing between the sites, they are close (we were in F130) to where if you open your window shades in your camper your neighbors are 5-10 feet away from you," advises David M.
Roadway conditions: Access roads within campgrounds can present challenges. "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful. The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," reports Laura L.
Hookup placements: Check site diagrams before booking. "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords," advises Beth about Taughannock Falls State Park Campground. This can prevent setup frustrations upon arrival.
