Cabins near Manlius, New York range from rustic to semi-modern with options across several state parks within a 45-minute drive. Located in central New York at approximately 700 feet elevation, the area experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers averaging 80°F and cold winters with significant snowfall. The region's glacial topography features numerous lakes and gorges, creating natural swimming areas and hiking opportunities.
What to do
Swimming in natural settings: Green Lakes State Park Campground offers swimming in a meromictic lake with distinct turquoise coloring. "This park is beautiful and very clean. The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands," notes Kenneth S. The swimming area includes a large beach with lifeguards.
Hiking around glacial lakes: Take the 3.1-mile loop trail at Green Lakes State Park Campground for views of the unique water formations. Sheri S. describes it as "an easy 3.1 mile loop with much shade around two glacier formed turquoise lakes (you need to see them in person to appreciate)."
Boating options: Rentals available at several parks for water exploration. "Just past the swimming area is boat rentals ($7/hr for row boat rental)," mentions Sheri S. about Green Lakes. At Oneida Shores County Park, campers can access boat launches and watercraft rentals for exploring Oneida Lake.
Waterfall exploration: Fillmore Glen State Park features multiple waterfalls accessible via hiking trails. "Awesome little park in the Finger Lakes region with nature on site and lots more to do and explore nearby (wine trails!). Swimming is only allowed in certain parts and there are some pretty steep drop offs so watch the kids close," advises Kim B.
What campers like
Private cabins with lake access: Some cabin rentals offer direct water views. At Verona Beach State Park Campground, Rachelle W. notes, "Campground sits on the edge of Lake Oneida with a nice camper's beach and trail on the lake front. We stayed at site 11. As you can see sites are spacious and this one was right on the lake's edge."
Clean, modern bathrooms: Updated facilities enhance the camping experience. At Cayuga Lake State Park Campground, Jeremy T. mentions, "Great facilities, dumpsters, potable water!" Fillmore Glen receives similar praise: "Bathrooms are modern, kept very clean, and the showers are awesome."
Spacious sites for groups: Several parks offer larger sites. "Sites were very spacious!" reports Colleen M. about Cayuga Lake. At Fillmore Glen State Park Campground, Shari G. notes, "This campground is great for families and groups! Each site has a picnic table and fire ring and there are both electric and non-electric sites from which to choose."
Recreational amenities: Beyond natural features, many parks offer additional recreation. Cindy H. says Green Lakes has "a camp store, laundry room, recreation room, playgrounds and much more." Fillmore Glen includes "playgrounds and areas for various sports" according to Kim B.
What you should know
Cabin availability varies seasonally: Many parks close cabins in winter months. Tate T. at Ta-Ga-Soke Campgrounds notes, "The site was good size and included a picnic table and a fire ring. Site however was very close to other sites and not very private." Most cabin rentals operate from May through mid-October.
Varied shower arrangements: Some parks charge for showers or have inconvenient locations. At Ta-Ga-Soke, campers "had to pay with quarters to shower not a problem but inconvenient." At Oneida Shores, Kristie M. mentions, "Showers could be closer and seem more accommodating to day users."
Site privacy concerns: Many cabins and tent sites offer limited seclusion. Ali T. describes Verona Beach: "Unless you score a campsite in the row up against the water, forget privacy. The campsites are spacious but you're pretty much camping on the same lawn as your neighbors with very few trees in between you."
Seasonal crowds: Certain parks become extremely busy during peak periods. Harry H. advises about Green Lakes: "Fills up during August when the State Fair is in Syracuse (same is true for every campsite in this area)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for convenience. At Bass Lake Resort, Kelly J. appreciates that "it is safe and they can be kids. This is a membership/timeshare place but if you get a membership you can camp for free at any of 7 of campsites along the east coast."
Water safety considerations: Natural swimming areas require extra vigilance. Kim B. warns about Fillmore Glen: "Swimming is only allowed in certain parts and there are some pretty steep drop offs so watch the kids close."
Bug preparation: Pack appropriate repellents for comfort. Jeremy T. advises Cayuga Lake visitors: "Bring lots of bugspray and fire starters as it does rain up here which affects the fire wood."
Cabin amenities for children: Check what's provided before booking. Sheri S. notes that Green Lakes has "bathrooms [that] have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric options differ between parks. At Cayuga Lake, Amanda K. mentions, "We stayed at campsite#5- It was large enough to fit our 27' camper however it was very close(with no privacy) to the neighbors. Has electric hook-ups."
Site levelness: Some areas require additional adjustment. Michael O. shares about Lebanon Reservoir Campground: "Sites are mostly level, but some did slant quite a bit. Hookups are well located and modern."
Shower facilities: Quality varies significantly between parks. Michael O. continues about Lebanon Reservoir: "Bathrooms are new and clean, and well kept. Showers were great. I've heard they've installed a new pavilion for games and events."
