Camping options near Montour Falls range from wooded state park campgrounds to rustic fire tower sites situated within the Finger Lakes region at elevations between 800-1,200 feet. The area experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from May through October. Winter camping isn't recommended due to frequent snowfall and freezing conditions from November through March.
What to do
Waterfall swimming: 5-minute hike from Havana Glen campsites leads to Eagle Cliff waterfall with a swimming area. "Short trail with lots of steps to a lovely waterfall in a typical Finger Lakes kind of gorge. Camp sites wooded and short walk from good views" according to Dan N.
Visit fire tower: Free access at Sugar Hill Fire Tower Recreation Area with views spanning across multiple lakes. "It has a toilet house" and "each site has a table with benches and a fire place," notes Joel M., making it a good basecamp for tower hikers.
Gorge hiking: Multiple trail options at Robert H. Treman State Park Campground with varying difficulty levels. "There are endless waterfalls, hiking trails, fishing holes and bird watching opportunities," mentions Carlyne F., who recommends early starts to avoid crowds on summer weekends.
What campers like
Spacious RV sites: Finger Lakes RV Resort offers extra room between campers. "This is a family owned campground and the owners were very friendly and took pride in their business. The campground sites are very large and spread out," notes Craig F., highlighting the campground's layout for privacy.
Swimming in waterfall pools: Dog-friendly campgrounds near Montour Falls provide access to natural swimming spots. "There is a nice pool and playgrounds. It's close to downtown Watkins glen with lots of restaurants. It is also very close to Seneca Lake where there is swimming, boating, awesome hiking," shares Danielle B.
Clean bathhouses: Facilities are well-maintained at most campgrounds. "The bath house is immaculate and rivals those at Fort Wilderness Resort," according to Craig F., who appreciates the attention to detail at newer facilities in the area.
What you should know
Weekend crowds: Popular dog-friendly campgrounds fill quickly from Friday-Sunday. "The campground is popular on weekends (and almost daily in summer) but even with a bit of a crowd absolutely worth it when you're in the Finger Lakes," notes Harry H.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "The hill you climb to the camp sites is riddled with pot holes. 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," explains Amy A.
Early morning rooster calls: Harpy Hollow has farm animals on-site. "The place is very dark at night- a treat when there's a lot of light pollution. The only thing is, know that you will be woken up by a rooster!" warns Lara Star M., though she still gave the pet-friendly campground five stars.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playground options: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Montour Falls feature play areas. "There is a huge new playground for the kids and lots of area to walk around the loops if you don't want to hike the gorge trail," mentions Lindsay C., noting alternatives for families when main trails are busy.
Swimming accessibility: Natural pools with varying depths accommodate different ages. "The swimming area is pretty deep, making it difficult to find your own 'space,'" mentions Matt G., suggesting early morning or evening swims for families with small children.
Baseball fields and game areas: Watkins Glen / Corning KOA provides additional recreation. "It had alot of things to do indoor/outdoor pool, pirate ship, slide, big pillow, waterside, golf and rock wall," explains Nicole S., though she notes some amenities may be seasonal.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Choose outer loop sites when possible. "I've camped here for 20+ years and they have always been great. Lots of activities for kids and families on site and near by. Quite campground with KOA expected cleanliness and staff courtesy," advises Amy T.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra equipment. "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," warns Victoria about terrain at older campgrounds.
Hookup configurations: Check utility placement before booking. "The water pressure is great. The bath house is new and very comfortable. Each site has a picnic table, a fire ring and lots of room for big rigs," reports Steve A., who recommends confirming which side hookups are located on before arrival.
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