Glamping options near Cato, New York typically operate from mid-April through October when temperatures range from 50-80°F during camping season. The area sits approximately 400 feet above sea level within the Oswego River drainage basin, creating diverse camping environments from lakefront to wooded settings. Most glamping accommodations require advance bookings with deposits, especially for weekend stays during peak summer months.
What to do
Fishing at Sterling Creek: The campground offers creek fishing where campers can catch various species in a peaceful setting. "Had a large, private plot in drumlin loop. Close to the beach which was very pretty and clean. Hiking trails, kayaking, and lots of other fun activities," notes a visitor at Lake Bluff RV Park.
Hiking the glacial lakes: Green Lakes State Park features distinctive glacier-formed turquoise lakes with surrounding trails. "The hiking includes an easy 3.1 mile loop with much shade around two glacier formed turquoise lakes (you need to see them in person to appreciate)," explains one camper who found the natural formations remarkable.
Military history exploration: Visit the naval museum at Sampson State Park Campground for exhibits about its WWII naval training base past. "It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era. Very shady and ample bathroom, shower, and water facilities," shares a visitor who appreciated the historical significance.
What campers like
Spacious glamping sites: Many visitors appreciate the room to spread out while luxury camping. "We had a huge site near a little stream, overall the campground isn't very big with lots of seasonsals. Lots of activities for kids, and just around the corner from chimney bluff state park which are a must see!" reports a camper who enjoyed their accommodations at Lake Bluff RV Park.
Lakefront access: Direct water access ranks highly among glamping enthusiasts. "This was a perfect weekend getaway. Kayaking in Cayuga Lake was not lacking some beautiful views. The sites are slightly close together but everyone was incredibly respectful and quiet by 10pm," shares a visitor at Cayuga Lake State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained amenities enhance the glamping experience. "We stayed only one night at this park but wish we could have stayed longer as there seems to be quite a bit to enjoy here. Has electric hook-ups," notes one reviewer who particularly mentioned the swimming, fishing, and kayak launch facilities.
What you should know
Seasonal weather challenges: Spring camping close to Cato can bring mud and rain. "The spring can be tricky with the rain, some sites can get messy," cautions a visitor at Cheerful Valley Campground, highlighting the importance of weather-appropriate gear.
Site privacy varies: Some glamping locations offer more seclusion than others. "Tent camping here felt like we were camping in a neighborhood backyard. We could hear so many different families talking and really doing everything you do while camping but the area felt so open and unobstructed voices carried," reports a visitor describing the open layout at some campgrounds.
Facility maintenance fluctuates: Recent improvements vary across glamping properties. "Signs/photo ops were crooked/loose/broken. Planted annual flowers were dead, overgrown with weeds. Miniature golf holes were falling apart," details one camper at Yogi Bears Jellystone Park, suggesting research before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Mexico offers organized entertainment for children. "This campground offers so much for people of all ages. Crafts, games, activities, playground, pool, bouncy pillow, twice daily wagon rides with Yogi and Boo Boo, bike parades, river access," shares a repeat visitor who appreciates the structured recreation.
Playground access: Select sites near play areas for convenience. "Near the play ground they have a nice game room pool, air hockey, video games. There is a change machine too," notes a visitor highlighting the recreation options at some glamping locations.
Safety considerations: Shallow swimming areas benefit younger children. "There is a nice public beach fully staffed with life guards. A store and rec center is located at entrance area of camp ground as well as a big playground for the children," reports a camper who appreciated the supervised water activities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At Junius Ponds, campers note the practical layout. "Most sites can accommodate large rigs with full hookups. Reservations recommended especially during summer weekends. Well priced $42 per night for full hookups," advises an RVer who found the value reasonable.
Access challenges: Some glamping locations near Cato have navigation obstacles. "The roads are narrow and hilly, but we pull a 36' 5th wheel (mid-profile) and we had no issues with branches. They had a oversized, long pull through available (site 88) that made entering and exiting the site nice and easy," shares a visitor who successfully navigated their large rig.
Utility setup: Electric boxes may require planning. "Electric service boxes are shared in-between sites. This could pose an issue if your power cord is not long enough. There is only source for water fill up. This could end up being a very very long wait," warns a camper at Sampson State Park, suggesting bringing extension cords.
