Cabin camping near Moravia, New York provides access to the southern Finger Lakes region, where elevation varies between 400-600 feet above sea level around the lakes to 2,000 feet on surrounding hills. The area typically experiences mild summers with daytime temperatures in the 70s-80s°F, while spring and fall bring cooler weather ideal for hiking. Most cabin facilities in the region remain open from mid-April through late October, closing during winter months.
What to do
Hiking the gorges: Fillmore Glen State Park offers multiple gorge trails with five waterfalls. "Hiking trails, spring fed swimming area, all set in a gorge type atmosphere. The 60 camp sites are in private areas protected by wooded areas, but for the less adventurous there are fully serviced cabins available," notes Brian O. The park maintains a unique natural swimming pool fed by springs, which provides relief during summer heat.
Lake activities: Visit Long Point State Park for water-based recreation on Owasco Lake. One visitor notes it's "great for all types of water sports." Fishing is permitted with proper licensing, and the park offers kayak access. Bran P. recommends "a boat ride in the area. We passed by Millionaire's Row on the St Lawrence River and saw some beautiful summer homes...each one is on its own island!"
Museum visits: Sampson State Park contains a military museum highlighting its history as a Naval training base during WWII. "Very shady and ample bathroom, shower, and water facilities. If you like wildlife you may run into some animals that are indigenous to Central/Western NY," mentions Brian O. The museum displays authentic items from the era, making it educational for history enthusiasts.
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: Campers consistently highlight the swimming opportunities at Buttermilk Falls State Park. "The falls are always fun, despite the lack of impressive height. The fact they're integrated into the swimming area is a unique feature," comments Chris D. The natural pool areas provide safe swimming without the need to drive elsewhere.
Privacy levels: Some cabins offer more seclusion than others. At Empire Haven Nudist Park, one visitor notes: "We've camped in two rustic cabins over the years. The campground is as quiet and peaceful as anyone would like, but the community enables campers the freedom to socialize and share meals whenever you want."
Clean facilities: Many visitors comment on the well-maintained bathrooms. At Robert H. Treman State Park, Emma N. found "The bathrooms were clean, with multiple free, hot showers. I believe there were separate dishwashing sinks inside the restrooms." Several parks offer modern facilities that exceed expectations for rustic settings.
What you should know
Cabin sizes vary: Cabin accommodations range from rustic to relatively well-appointed. At Sampson State Park, Kate W. observed that "the cabins were small but could sleep 3-4 people in one room." Reserve well ahead during peak summer months as cabins book quickly.
Limited water access: While all cabins have access to potable water somewhere on the grounds, not all have direct hookups. One reviewer at Cayuga Lake State Park mentioned "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."
Park-specific rules: Watkins Glen State Park has certain restrictions visitors should know. Lindsay C. points out, "Dogs are allowed but they are not allowed on the gorge trail. I'm ok with this I just wish I had known before we got there." Check each park's regulations before arrival to avoid surprises.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: At Sned Acres Campground, Julie S. appreciated the easy access to play areas: "Our two-year-old adored playing on the playground just 15' or so from our campsite and we particularly loved checking out our beautiful lake view while we sat around the campfire." Consider site location relative to playgrounds when booking.
Swimming options: Several parks offer swimming appropriate for various ages. At Taughannock Falls State Park, Barbara S. found "The swimming area goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of. The hiking to the waterfall is very manageable." Many parks maintain lifeguarded swim areas during summer months.
Kid-friendly trails: Select parks offer easier hikes suitable for children. Jennifer W. reported her experience: "I have a 7 year old son and he enjoyed every second of this, there is a lot to see and a lot of water to play in! One thing that we were kind of disappointed in, is that the campground pool doesn't open until the end of June."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Consider size limitations when bringing RVs to cabin areas. Victoria reports that at Buttermilk Falls, "The sites are rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers." Many cabin areas have narrower roads and smaller parking areas than dedicated RV campgrounds.
Shared utilities: Power hookups may require planning. At Sampson State Park, Amanda K. cautions, "Electric service boxes are shared in-between sites. This could pose an issue if your power cord is not long enough." Bring extension cords and additional adapters when staying in cabin areas with RV hookups.
Driving conditions: Access roads vary significantly between parks. Laura L. noted about Watkins Glen: "We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves." Consider your vehicle size when selecting a cabin location.
