RV camping near Marathon, New York offers access to the rolling hills of the Finger Lakes region at elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Many campgrounds in this central New York region remain open from May through mid-October, with some closing earlier due to the region's cooler fall temperatures.
What to do
Lake activities: At Pine Valley RV Park & Campground, visitors can enjoy swimming in the lake with giant inflatables. "So many things for kids to do. From boating, to giant swimming inflatables, putt putt even a giant slide. All part of the price of the campground," notes Mommy D.
Hiking trails: The Chenango Canal Trail in Bouckville offers a scenic trek along a historic Erie Canal offshoot, accessible near Butternut Hill RV Campground. "The campground is adjacent to the festival fields, lining a forest edge with expansive views of the surrounding valley," according to Janet R.
Wine tasting: Seneca Lake wineries are easily accessible from campsites at Finger Lakes RV Resort. "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," writes Craig F. "They are bookended by two wineries with walking paths from the campground."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Camping areas with room to spread out are highly valued. "FLRV opened in the last couple years and is a great addition to the camping options around the Finger Lakes... The campground sites are very large and spread out," reports Craig F. about the Finger Lakes RV Resort.
Clean facilities: Modern, well-maintained bathhouses receive consistent praise from campers. "The bath house is immaculate and rivals those at Fort Wilderness Resort," notes one Finger Lakes RV Resort visitor, while another commented about Belden Hill Campgrounds: "Clean bathrooms and laundry rooms."
Mountain views: Several campgrounds offer panoramic vistas. "Great views of the mts. Very laid back, relaxing vibe," explains Tim W. about Belden Hill Campgrounds, which features pull-through sites with views of the surrounding landscape.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most Marathon-area campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Pine Valley RV Park runs from "May 1 to September 30," while Spruce Row Campground operates "May 1 - Oct 12."
Varied site types: Campgrounds offer different accommodation options. "Many of the sites are for RV's, which have electric and water hookups along with a picnic table and fire pit; rates for these range $40-50. There are also primitive tent sites which have a grassy tent area and fire pit but no picnic table and cost $30 per night," explains Janet R. about Butternut Hill.
WiFi reliability: Internet access varies by location. "Easy maneuverability, great wifi and water pressure, along with level sites make it a great place to stay," notes a Finger Lakes RV Resort reviewer, while another mentions "Wifi was strong enough to do work calls."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds cater specifically to families with activities included in site fees. "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," shares Mommy D. about Pine Valley RV Park.
Consider seasonal activities: Summer programming often includes organized recreation. "I have been camping at Pine Valley for over 15 years and considerate a family oriented relaxing campground. They have hayrides in the summer and swimming in the lake," notes Mark L.
Check for farm experiences: Woonton Family Farms offers unique agricultural camping. "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," shares Willemien V.
Tips from RVers
Assess site layout: Not all campgrounds accommodate large rigs equally. "Stayed in 38ft motorhome," notes Tim W. about Belden Hill Campgrounds, adding the sites were "pull thru full hookup, level, spacious."
Check hookup availability: Electrical service varies between parks. At Butternut Hill RV Campground, you'll find "30 sites with both 30-amp and 50-amp hookups," which accommodates a range of RV power requirements.
Consider seasonal crowds: Some campgrounds get busy during peak times. "Spent one night at this campground on our way to Stowe, VT. The campground is primarily seasonal sites and the sites are very close together," notes Jodi about Spruce Row Campground.
