Cabins near Montour Falls, New York range from basic structures to accommodations with modern conveniences. The Finger Lakes region sits at elevations between 400-2,000 feet with a humid continental climate that brings distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, while spring and fall can see significant temperature variations with cool nights even when days are warm.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: At Watkins Glen State Park, you can hike the Gorge Trail featuring 19 waterfalls within narrow stone walls. "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful. The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves. The gorge trail is a MUST," recommends Laura L.
Fishing opportunities: Sampson State Park Campground offers excellent fishing access on Seneca Lake. "Only about 15 minutes to the closest large town (Geneva), Sampson State park has it all. Recreation Hall, swimming, fishing, great lake front playground, camp store, hiking trails (many wheelchair friendly) and boating," notes Sheri S.
Museum visits: When staying in rustic cabins, take a day trip to explore the military history at Sampson State Park. "It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era. Very shady and ample bathroom, shower, and water facilities. If you like wild life you may run into some animals that are indigenous to Central/Western NY," explains Brian O.
What campers like
Well-maintained swimming areas: Taughannock Falls State Park Campground offers swimming options beyond the standard pool. "This is a beautiful campground. The bathrooms are fairly clean and well maintained. For washing dishes there is a sink in each bathroom. The campground is very walkable to the swimming area, which goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of," shares Barbara S.
Private wooded sites: Cabins at Buttermilk Falls State Park provide a sense of seclusion. "We have stayed here on two separate occasions. It is close to so many waterfalls and gorges and some of my favorite hiking trails. The lack of amenities drives a lot of people away- we have never felt crowded while here," reports Molly G.
Convenient pet policies: Ferenbaugh Campground welcomes pets with reasonable restrictions. "Lots of Trees and Shade OR Plenty of Grass and Sun; whichever is your preference, they have you covered! Pool, Fishing Pond, Pavilion with Bands and Activities, Mini Golf, Camp Store.... Pretty laid back park in a beautiful area," says Nicole D.
What you should know
Water quality varies: At some campgrounds, water filtration is recommended. "I actually bought a dual stage water filter and change it every two weeks. I have found the staff to be accommodating. They offer 30/50 amp sites, also have full hook ups and some primitive sites," advises Gary V. from Ferenbaugh Campground.
Bathroom conditions fluctuate: Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground receives mixed reviews about facilities. "I drove in on a Monday and was possibly going to stay till Thursday but ended up leaving Tuesday morning. The bathroom was not very upkept/updated and kinda dirty. The road noise at night (from rt13 below) and the sound of the bathroom door slamming did not help with getting a good night sleep," warns Amy A.
Cabin occupancy limits: Most cabins accommodate 4-6 people, but space can be tight. "Our cabin was barebones but it was clean, had a TV, small refrigerator, a bunk bed and full. Plenty of room for two people!" notes a KOA guest, highlighting that larger groups should consider multiple cabins or alternative accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Family-focused amenities: Camp Bell Campground offers numerous child-friendly activities. "This camp keeps the kids and dogs busy!! The pool is clean and looks great. Hot showers and clean bathrooms," reports Scott H. The campground features a large playground and mini arcade that children particularly enjoy.
Educational opportunities: Robert H. Treman State Park provides learning experiences through natural exploration. "We stayed a week and absolutely loved it! Great hiking to waterfalls, beautiful campgrounds and a large playground. Some sites have shared fresh water hookup between the sites," mentions Jennifer D.
Kid-friendly trails: When selecting cabin locations, consider proximity to easy hiking routes. "The park's facilities blend rustic charm with modern comforts: clean flush toilets, hot-water showers, and convenient potable water stations," notes a Watkins Glen visitor. Most parks offer trail maps indicating difficulty levels suitable for different age groups.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Watkins Glen / Corning KOA, larger sites are available but research is essential. "Super kind people who work there. Great amenities. Climbing wall, pool, putt putt, giant bouncy thing. Basketball hoop, playground. Lots of cars, lots of people, super close campsites," explains Amy H.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads for larger vehicles. "Very clean campsites are very nice plenty of room had a 50 amp and 30 amp service box in a pull through site plenty of stuff for the kids to do nice pool and bounce pad will definitely go back," mentions Nick O. about Camp Bell Campground.
Hookup positioning: When booking cabin or RV sites, verify the location of utility connections. "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 if you arrive at the same time as other campers," advises Amanda K. from Sampson State Park.
