Tent camping options near Middlesex, New York cluster around the scenic Finger Lakes region, with sites ranging from $35-55 per night during peak season. The area sits at approximately 700-900 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and cooling to 55-65°F at night. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October due to the region's cold winters, with few accommodations available during off-season months.
What to do
Water activities at nearby lakes: Holiday Hill Campground provides access to both Hemlock and Canadice Lakes, with boat launches approximately 5 miles from campsites. A camper noted, "Clean bathrooms and Verizon reception is consistent at 3 bars. There is a lot to do for kids & teens, but that makes it loud with kids running through your site."
Hiking nearby trails: The Jonestead offers walk-in tent sites with proximity to multiple hiking trails. The property specializes in cold weather camping opportunities with basic amenities including toilets, trash collection, and drinking water. Winter camping requires additional cold-weather gear and preparation.
Canal exploration: Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort provides direct access to the historic Erie Canal. One camper reported, "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 and the pool far enough from the campsites but close to the store."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and common areas at tent camping locations. At Dream Lake Campground, one visitor commented, "Nice friendly environment, clean facilities. Lots to do for kids and adults. Weekend activities. The snack house food is great, if you don't feel like cooking they offer a nice menu almost anyone would love."
Proximity to recreation: Dream Lake Campground provides on-site activities plus access to regional attractions. A satisfied guest shared, "I love this campground very family friendly lots of activities been going here 6 years now and never have had a bad time."
Weekend entertainment: Several campgrounds schedule regular activities throughout the peak season. At Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, a camper mentioned, "Barb and Red are fantastic hosts. They are accommodating and entertaining. Live music on Friday Night (weather permitting) and plenty of activities for the family on the weekends."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most tent camping sites near Middlesex close during winter months. Holiday Hill Campground operates from May 1 to October 14, while Dream Lake Campground runs from May 1 to October 25, requiring advance planning for spring and fall visits.
Site levelness concerns: Not all tent sites in the region feature level ground. At Red's Twilight, one camper observed, "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."
Availability limitations: The PineApple Farm offers just one tent site, making advanced reservations essential. The site includes drinking water, showers, toilets and trash service, but lacks electric hookups or water connections directly at the campsite.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites away from activity centers: For quieter family camping experiences, request sites located further from main facilities. At Holiday Hill Campground, a visitor advised, "There is a lot to do for kids & teens, but that makes it loud with kids running through your site. So if that bothers you, plan ahead to get a site away from the main area."
Look for on-site food options: Some campgrounds offer prepared food for families wanting occasional breaks from camp cooking. A visitor to Dream Lake noted, "The snack house food is great, if you don't feel like cooking they offer a nice menu almost anyone would love."
Consider campground speed limits: Empire Haven Nudist Park maintains strict vehicle speed regulations for child safety. The campground features both rustic cabins and tent sites with a quiet atmosphere. One camper described it as "as quiet and peaceful as anyone would like, but the community enables campers the freedom to socialize and share meals whenever you want."
Tips from RVers
Call ahead for backing information: Sites at some campgrounds require maneuvering. An RVer at Holiday Hill noted, "We had to maneuver a lot to back our 25' trailer into a tight spot, but sites are clean and spacious side to side."
Book early for full hookups: Limited full-service sites mean advance planning is crucial. At Holiday Hill Campground, "There seemed to be a lot of regulars and seasonal sites here, which meant that short-term full hook up sites were harder to get. Online booking was seamless, however, so that was another plus."
Check site improvements: Facilities continue developing, with varying quality. A guest at Red's Twilight mentioned, "I know they are really working hard to get this place up to speed and I hope they continue to improve it."
