Camping spots near Mendon, New York sit amid the rolling hills of western New York's Finger Lakes region, approximately 20 miles from downtown Rochester. Winter temperatures average 20-30°F with summer ranging from 65-80°F. Most camping areas in this region have gravel pads with varying degrees of tree coverage, affecting both privacy and natural shade availability during peak summer months.
What to Do
Hiking near Chimney Bluffs: Lake Bluff RV Park provides easy access to the unique geological formations at Chimney Bluffs State Park. "Camping again in our favorite spot. We camped so much here we got a free nights stay!" notes Sara H. about Lake Bluff RV Park.
Canal-side adventures: The Erie Canal offers kayaking opportunities near several Mendon-area campgrounds. "Kayak launches and boat marina nearby. The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it.... Kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area," reports Rachel T. about camping at Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort.
Winery visits: The Finger Lakes region features numerous award-winning wineries within short driving distance. "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. about staying at Finger Lakes RV Resort.
What Campers Like
Family activities: Many campgrounds feature dedicated recreational areas and scheduled events. "Family friendly park, lots of activities, park hosts/owners are hands on and awesome," mentions Cheryl M. about her stay at Southwoods RV Resort.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses are consistently highlighted in reviews. "Bathrooms were very clean. Quiet campground. Lots of plays areas for kids," notes Sydney W. about her camping experience at Southwoods.
Proximity to attractions: Many campers appreciate how RV parks near Mendon serve as convenient bases for regional exploration. "We stayed at Lake Bluff while visiting the Rochester, NY area and exploring attractions in the area. The campground is about 20-25 miles from downtown Rochester," writes a reviewer about Lake Bluff RV Park.
What You Should Know
Seasonal operations: Most rv campgrounds around Mendon, New York operate from late spring to mid-fall. "It is new and growing. The pool is nice and staff friendly. Clean bathrooms with activity and entertainment on site and nearby," writes Amy T. about Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort.
Site leveling challenges: Some parks have uneven terrain that requires preparation. "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," shares Donna C. from her experience at Red's Twilight.
Seasonal campers vs. weekend visitors: Several parks have a significant number of seasonal residents. "It was kinda close to other campers. Geared toward more seasonal campers," notes Eric B. about Red Rock Ponds RV Resort.
Tips for Camping with Families
Activity scheduling: Check each campground's event calendar before booking. "We have been to lake bluff twice this year and will definitely be back next year! The owners are so personable, accommodating and kind! Kids activities are great. Even with COVID they have stuff to keep them busy," shares Victoria about Lake Bluff RV Park.
Recreation facilities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "Near the play ground they have a nice game room pool, air hockey, video games. There is a change machine too," notes Sara H. about Lake Bluff RV Park.
Safety considerations: Some parks enforce strict speed limits for child safety. "The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it.... 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. about Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Experienced RVers recommend researching specific site characteristics. "The campground manager was very nice and helpful when we checked in and was able to extend our stay thru the weekend without us having to move sites. The park is gated and very clean and well-groomed," shares Nancy W. about Southwoods.
Hookup quality: Water pressure and electrical service can vary between parks and sites. "We chose a back-in 50-amp full hook-up site (M28) at $42/night. All the utilities were placed appropriately so we didn't need any extensions. The water pressure and electric were good," notes the same reviewer about Stay Bristol Woodlands.
Reservation timing: Book well ahead for peak periods, especially for specific sites. "Site was level and well equipped (waste water disposal attach site!)" reports jody M. about Stay Bristol Woodlands, highlighting the convenience of full hookup sites.