Near Marcellus, New York, RV campgrounds operate primarily from April through October due to the region's cold winters when temperatures often drop below freezing. Campers can expect 41 inches of annual rainfall with summer high temperatures averaging 80°F. Many RV sites in the area sit at elevations between 500-1,000 feet above sea level, providing moderate views of the surrounding countryside.
What to do
Fishing spots: Several campgrounds near Marcellus offer fishing opportunities. At Lake Bluff RV Park, campers can enjoy catch-and-release fishing on-site. "They do events for kids every weekend. If you camp 6 nights in one season you get a night free!" reports one regular visitor.
Hiking trails: The Chenango Canal trail provides historic scenery near Butternut Hill RV Campground. A camper noted, "The campground is adjacent to the festival fields, lining a forest edge with expansive views of the surrounding valley... you would find it to be a quiet pastoral location with access to some hiking and fishing spots in close proximity."
Winery visits: Finger Lakes wine country is easily accessible from many Marcellus area RV parks. At Finger Lakes RV Resort, "they are bookended by two wineries with walking paths from the campground," according to a recent visitor.
Waterfall viewing: Watkins Glen State Park is within driving distance from several Marcellus RV campgrounds. A camper shared, "We stayed at Finger Lakes RV Resort in Hector, a short drive from Watkins Glen and Ithaca, in search of waterfalls and wine in the Finger Lakes region of NY state."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Unlike some crowded campgrounds, certain RV parks near Marcellus offer more room between sites. 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."
Clean facilities: Many campers prioritize bathroom cleanliness when choosing RV parks around Marcellus. "The bath house is immaculate and rivals those at Fort Wilderness Resort," reported one visitor about Finger Lakes RV Resort.
Family activities: For families camping near Marcellus, Woonton Family Farms offers a unique experience. "We had a great campfire, fresh blackberries and the option of canoeing. Close to the nice village Skaneateles. It was a welcome difference from the common/look-alike campgrounds everywhere else," wrote one international visitor.
Quiet atmosphere: Some Marcellus area campgrounds provide a more peaceful setting. A camper at Finger Lakes RV Resort observed, "Due to the minimal amenities, it is very quiet and relaxing especially in the evenings sitting around the campfire."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most RV parks around Marcellus operate seasonally. Lake Bluff RV Park runs "from April 15 to October 31," while Hejamada Camping Resort operates "from May 1 to October 15."
Site types: Different campgrounds offer varying site configurations. At The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone, "All full hook up sites from full sun to full shade," according to a longtime visitor.
Festival schedules: Some campgrounds host special events throughout the season. Butternut Hill RV Campground serves as "the superb festival setting for several regional events, including several Antique shows, the Central New York Fiber Festival, a craft fair and a car show, events that are scheduled a few times a month throughout the summer."
Weather preparation: The Finger Lakes region can experience sudden storms. One camper at Finger Lakes RV Resort noted, "We experienced a severe thunderstorm one evening which resulted in an area-wide power outage that lasted a couple days."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When camping with kids near Marcellus, look for RV parks with play areas. Lake Bluff RV Park features "a nice game room pool, air hockey, video games. There is a change machine too."
Kid-friendly activities: Some Marcellus area campgrounds specifically plan for younger visitors. One Lake Bluff camper shared, "Kids activities are great. Even with COVID they have stuff to keep them busy."
Swimming options: Families appreciate water recreation during summer months. "Close to the beach which was very pretty and clean. Hiking trails, kayaking, and lots of other fun activities," noted a visitor about Lake Bluff RV Park.
Campsite location: For families, site selection matters. A camper at Lake Bluff recommended, "We had a large, private plot in drumlin loop. Close to the beach which was very pretty and clean."
Tips from RVers
Hookup specifications: Experienced RVers camping near Marcellus pay attention to electrical service details. Finger Lakes RV Resort provides "Easy maneuverability, great wifi and water pressure, along with level sites."
Parking surface quality: Level sites are crucial for comfortable RV camping. A visitor to Finger Lakes RV Resort appreciated that "all of the sites are very nicely spread out with generous spacing" and noted "the water pressure is great."
Navigation considerations: Some Marcellus area RV parks are easier to access than others. "The campground was beautiful and easy to get in and out of. The sites were level and great size with nice spacing in between," reported a family traveling in a Class A motorhome at Turning Stone RV Park.
Internet connectivity: For working campers, WiFi quality matters. A visitor to Finger Lakes RV Resort confirmed, "Wifi was strong enough to do work calls."
