RV camping near Lansing, New York offers campers level, graveled sites within the heart of the Finger Lakes region. Situated between 400 and 900 feet above sea level, this area receives approximately 36 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush landscapes surrounding the long, narrow lakes. Camping season typically runs from early May through mid-October, with peak times occurring in July and August when temperatures average 70-85°F during the day.
What to do
Hiking gorge trails: At Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, trails range from easy to moderate difficulty. "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," notes one visitor.
Wine tasting: Multiple campgrounds offer proximity to wine trails. A camper at Blueberry Patch Campground shared, "The best part about this campground is you are perfectly situated in the heart of the NY wine country! Seneca Lake is just a couple miles west and has more wineries than you can possibly visit."
Swimming in natural settings: Several parks feature swimming areas within natural surroundings. One reviewer mentioned about Fillmore Glen State Park, "The 60 camp sites are in private areas protected by wooded areas... Activities include hiking on many trails, fishing, swimming, and what I thought was unique was the spring fed swimming pool."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground maintains high standards for its facilities. "Been here in all the seasons, each is beautiful. Campgrounds are wooded. Pretty basic facilities, nice though. None of the tent sites have exceptional views but you're a short walk from the creek/gorges," one camper noted.
Privacy between sites: Some locations offer more seclusion than others. At Finger Lakes RV Resort, "The campground sites are very large and spread out. Being a newer campground, the trees are small, but that did not take away from the experience. Easy maneuverability, great wifi and water pressure, along with level sites make it a great place to stay."
Convenient location: Proximity to attractions is valued by many campers. "The entire place isn't the biggest but is still good. You can still do day hikes here. There is picnic tables grills and restrooms," shared a visitor to Long Point State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in this region have limited operating seasons. Pine Valley RV Park operates "May 1 to September 30" while Spruce Row Campground runs "May 1 - Oct 12," according to their listings.
Varying site privacy: Not all campgrounds offer the same level of privacy. A visitor to Spruce Row Campground noted, "The campground is primarily seasonal sites and the sites are very close together. We were traveling the week of July 4th so there were limited sites available."
Water access considerations: Many campgrounds require you bring your own water or plan accordingly. At Blueberry Patch, "BRING WATER. There are no water sources near the site. There is a gas station about 15 minutes away on route 79 so make sure to fill up on water and snacks."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Fillmore Glen State Park Campground provides dedicated spaces for children. "Bathrooms are very clean and close to all campsites. Kids loved the park and swimming in the waterfall beach," reports one family camper.
Space for games: Some campgrounds feature open areas for recreation. A reviewer noted about Pine Valley RV Park, "This is by far one of the best family oriented campgrounds we've ever been in. The staff, the grounds, the amenities made me wish we were closer. So many things for kids to do. From boating, to giant swimming inflatables, putt putt even a giant slide."
Swimming safety: Natural swimming areas require extra attention. One camper advised about Fillmore Glen, "Swimming is only allowed in certain parts and there are some pretty steep drop offs so watch the kids close. The campground has playgrounds and areas for various sports but is pretty 'rustic' overall."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Woonton Family Farms, RV campers found unique experiences. "We had an excellent stay at the farm of the Woonton Family Farms with our RV, it was a cozy and beautiful campsite with personal attention of the owner. We had a great campfire, fresh blackberries and the option of canoeing."
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between campgrounds. Pine Valley RV Park offers "drinking-water, electric-hookups, fires-allowed, firewood, market, pets-allowed, picnic-table, reservable, sanitary-dump, sewer-hookups, showers, toilets, trash, water-hookups" according to their amenities list.
Road access: Consider campground road conditions when planning your RV trip. A visitor to Finger Lakes RV Resort mentioned, "Located about 1/3 of the way up the eastern side of Seneca Lake, the location provides easy access to the wineries, distilleries, and breweries along the lake."
