The Finger Lakes region where Middlesex, New York sits ranges from 600 to 1,200 feet above sea level, with nearby hilltops reaching 2,000 feet at high points like Ontario County Park. Cellular coverage can be severely limited in this rural area, particularly in valleys between the region's characteristic ridges. Campgrounds in the area range from well-developed resorts with full amenities to more rustic options that cater to campers seeking quieter experiences.
What to do
Swimming at natural pools: Stony Brook State Park, located about 35 miles west of Middlesex, features a unique swimming area carved from the mountain. "A great park for bird watching. Particularly if you like Blue Jays. I couldn't get over how many there were," notes Verity S., who adds that "the gorge trail is very busy but you still can enjoy the beautiful waterfalls along with the gorge formation."
Hiking nearby trails: Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill offers numerous trails for hikers of various skill levels. "Numerous pavilions that are wonderful for parties or weddings. Stunning overlook that is breathtaking," according to Sarah C. The park connects to the larger Finger Lakes Trail system, providing options for day hikes or longer treks.
Fishing opportunities: Many local campgrounds offer fishing ponds or lake access. Kelly H. simply states that Country Charm Campground provides "fishing" as one of its main attractions. The campground includes a large fishing pond where guests can spend relaxing hours.
Wine trail exploration: The campgrounds around Middlesex provide excellent bases for exploring the Finger Lakes wine region. Most wineries are within a 15-30 minute drive from local camping spots, making it easy to plan day trips for tastings and tours.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention appreciating the spaciousness of sites around Middlesex. At Keuka Lake State Park, Lynda M. notes the "spacious, private campsites, well maintained. Dogs welcome!" The park's layout provides natural buffers between camping spots.
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities receive positive mentions across multiple campgrounds. At Canandaigua-Rochester KOA, one visitor notes, "The campground is clean and well maintained. The staff are ALL so nice. The amenities are plentiful and well cared for."
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campers praise the quiet environment at camping spots near Middlesex. Kimberly R. describes Country Charm Campground as a "great place for those who want a relaxing place without all of the amenities that families with kids are looking for. Spacious sites, campground is clean and very well maintained."
Natural surroundings: The wooded settings and natural features are frequently highlighted. At Stony Brook State Park, campers report unique experiences like "We picked blueberries off a bush near our campsite to have with our breakfast every morning," as Dorothy P. describes.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds in the Middlesex area operate from May through October. Sampson State Park has one of the longest seasons, running "April 22 to November 8," while other parks typically close by mid-October.
Cell service challenges: Connectivity is extremely limited at several locations. At Flint Creek Campgrounds, Lela S. warns, "However, dont expect any cell phone service. I've had friends who climbed up on top of their RV and still, no signal. It's out in the middle of nowhere, hard to find but extremely worth it."
Reservation requirements: Advance booking is essential, especially for summer weekends and holiday periods. Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season (July and August).
Varying amenity levels: Facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. Ryan D. notes about Country Charm, "If your looking for a smaller, quieter campground and you don't have kids with you then this is the place. The owners are great people and the campground is very clean."
Water access considerations: Not all campsites are directly on waterfronts. At Keuka Lake State Park, Rebecca E. advises, "Camp sites are NOT on the lake but a short drive will get you there. Kayaking is so so but wineries are fun."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Stay Bristol Woodlands and several other campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Ontario County Park, Sarah C. mentions "numerous pavilions that are wonderful for parties or weddings. Hiking, bike trails, fishing pond, playground, open fields for sports, much more!!!"
Swimming options: Families should note the different swimming facilities available. At Sampson State Park, Stephanie C. shares that there's a "great little beach and swimming area; water was very clean."
Kid-friendly activities: Scheduled events cater to younger campers at select locations. Jonathan G. notes that Ontario County Park has "plenty of room on each site for whatever you need. Multiple playgrounds which are clean & well maintained."
Safety considerations: Some hiking trails may be challenging for very young children. At Stony Brook State Park, Olivia R. mentions, "Great hikes with bunches of little waterfalls and small pools for swimming," but parents should note that some trails include significant elevation changes and steps.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Jonathan G. warns about Ontario County Park: "Only downside is that the RV sites don't have much shade but the tent sites do. Also make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level."
Hookup placement: At Canandaigua-Rochester KOA, Sparks N. notes that "our water hook up was in the middle of someone's site," indicating that RVers should check utility locations when selecting sites.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. At Flint Creek Campgrounds, visitors note that it's "out in the middle of nowhere, hard to find but extremely worth it." Large rigs may find some turns challenging.
Dump station availability: While several campgrounds offer sanitary dump stations, availability varies. Amanda K. observes about Sampson State Park: "There is only source for water fill up. This could end up being a very very long wait if you arrive at the same time as other campers. Only 2 dump stations."
