Tent campsites near Lima, New York range from basic primitive sites to more developed facilities with amenities. The region sits in the western portion of the Finger Lakes area at approximately 800-1,000 feet elevation, creating varied camping terrain from lakeside sites to more wooded locations. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing from December through March, limiting most campgrounds to seasonal operation between May and October.
What to do
Waterway access: Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort provides direct access to the historic Erie Canal, with a marina nearby for boating enthusiasts. "Kayak launches and boat marina nearby. The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it," notes Rachel T., highlighting the water recreation opportunities.
Trail exploration: Sites near Springwater offer extensive trail networks connecting to larger wilderness areas. "Lots of trails, and Hemlock and Canadice Lake so close by. Mostly known for Reynolds GUlly, and Johnson Hill trails! Tons to do in the area but town isn't too far," writes Peter from Holiday Hill Campground.
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular entertainment for guests. Dream Lake Campground organizes "Weekend activities. The snack house food is great, if you don't feel like cooking they offer a nice menu almost anyone would love," according to Nick O., making it suitable for campers who want structured recreation options.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance stands out in visitor feedback. Terri H. from Holiday Hill Campground shares, "Wonderful owners, tons of activities for kids and adults. The sites are spacious and very well kept."
Entertainment options: Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort offers regular scheduled entertainment. "Live music on Friday Night (weather permitting) and plenty of activities for the family on the weekends," reports Rachel T., highlighting the organized fun available.
Consistent connectivity: Unlike more remote camping areas, Lima-area campgrounds maintain reasonable cellular service. Terry F. notes "Verizon reception is consistent at 3 bars" at Holiday Hill Campground, making these locations suitable for campers who need to stay connected.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds present leveling difficulties for certain equipment types. Donna C. from Dream Lake Campground cautions, "Almost all of the sites are not even close to level. Not a big issue with a fifth wheel but a real hassle with a motorcoach. We changed sites three times and finally resigned ourselves to not being leveled."
Management variations: Campground management styles differ significantly across the region. While some receive praise for friendly service, one reviewer at Dream Lake Campground warns, "Nasty owners create a terrible atmosphere. Not relaxing. We have moved on after our family and friends didn't even want to come visit due to this."
Seasonal site prevalence: Many campgrounds allocate a significant portion of their capacity to seasonal campers. Terry F. observes, "There seemed to be a lot of regulars and seasonal sites here, which meant that short term full hook up sites were harder to get," suggesting advance reservations for non-seasonal campers.
Tips for camping with families
Play areas: The PineApple Farm offers designated play spaces separate from campsites. "Kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area and the pool far enough from the campsites but close to the store and watchful eye of the staff," explains Rachel T.
Site selection for noise control: Families should consider campsite location relative to common areas. Terry F. advises, "There is a lot to do for kids & teens, but that makes it loud with kids running through your site. So if that bothers you, plan ahead to get a site away from the main area."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming facilities. Amy T. notes at Red's Twilight on the Erie, "The pool is nice and staff friendly. Clean bathrooms with activity and entertainment on site and nearby," providing water recreation without requiring lake access.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites with water, electric, and sewer connections are limited at many campgrounds near Lima. At Cold Weather Camping in the Finger Lakes, hookups are not available, while Holiday Hill Campground offers electric and water connections at most sites.
Backing considerations: Some campgrounds feature tight turns and limited maneuvering space. Terry F. shares, "We had to maneuver a lot to back our 25' trailer into a tight spot, but sites are clean and spacious side to side," suggesting smaller rigs may have an easier time.
Online reservation systems: Reservations can be made electronically at most established campgrounds. "Online booking was seamless, however, so that was another plus. As was cost- $43 per night for end of the season weekend isn't bad," notes Terry F., indicating reasonable pricing for the region.
