Cabin accommodations near Mottville, New York provide visitors with rustic lodging options throughout the central Finger Lakes region. Situated at elevations of 400-900 feet, the area experiences moderate temperatures with summer highs averaging 80°F and winter lows reaching 15°F. Rental cabins typically remain open from May through October, with limited year-round options available at private campgrounds.
What to do
Swimming in natural pools: Fillmore Glen State Park Campground offers a spring-fed swimming area within walking distance of cabin sites. "Beautiful little park. Wonderful trails, swimming pool, and activities for kids," notes Gabrielle C. The park also features five waterfalls accessible via moderate hiking trails.
Explore military history: At Sampson State Park Campground, visitors can tour a naval museum displaying authentic WWII artifacts. "It was a Naval training base during WWll...It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era," explains Brian O. The park's location on Seneca Lake provides excellent fishing and boating opportunities.
Hiking gorge trails: Watkins Glen State Park Campground features 19 waterfalls along its famous Gorge Trail. "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful. The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between," states Laura L. The park's interconnected trail system includes multiple difficulty levels suitable for various hiking abilities.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: At Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, cabins are situated in shaded areas. "The upper part of the campground is pretty private, while the lower end near the entrance/exit is more open," reports Barbara S., who adds that the swimming area "goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of."
Cabin amenities: While most cabins in the region are rustic, some offer more comforts than others. At Green Lakes State Park Campground, cabins include basic necessities. "This state park campground is one of the few that offer full hook ups. The bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink," explains Sheri S.
Winter availability: Unlike state parks that close in October, Sned Acres Campground offers year-round cabin rentals. "They were so helpful as we were first time campers. We loved the friendship bread when we arrived," shares Debbie C. The campground's accessibility during colder months makes it popular for off-season visits to the Finger Lakes.
What you should know
Bathroom accessibility: At some parks, bathroom facilities may be distant from cabin areas. At Oneida Shores County Park, "Showers are available but a bit far from the actual campground. Water was warm but the water pressure wasn't great," notes Nicole V.
Reservation requirements: Cabins throughout the region require advance bookings, especially during peak season. Weekends at Watkins Glen State Park fill quickly. "You'll definitely need to plan ahead and make reservations if you plan to be here on the weekends during the silly season," advises a visitor.
Wildlife interactions: Expect to encounter local fauna near cabins. At Cayuga Lake State Park Campground, campers mention frequent wildlife sightings. "We stayed in the 800 loop along the tree line. Sites were very spacious! Great camping location with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy," reports Colleen M.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Campgrounds with play areas keep children entertained. Sampson State Park features "Nice playgrounds...Paved loops - good for bikes and scooters," according to Amanda K., making it ideal for families with young children.
Consider swimming options: Natural swimming areas provide family recreation at many parks. At Fillmore Glen State Park, "Kids loved the park and swimming in the waterfall beach," reports Charyssa G., highlighting the child-friendly water features.
Pack for temperature variations: Despite warm days, cabin campers should prepare for cool nights. Nights can drop 20-30 degrees below daytime temperatures, especially in spring and fall. Bring additional blankets even during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Check electrical requirements: At Cayuga Lake State Park, electrical hookups vary by site. "We stayed at campsite#5- It was large enough to fit our 27' camper however it was very close (with no privacy) to the neighbors. Has electric hook-ups," notes Amanda K.
Water fill station awareness: Some parks have limited water access points. At 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," warns a reviewer.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites have varying degrees of privacy. "The sites in the middle section of the campground don't really have designated boundaries, while those around the edges are more traditionally divided," explains one camper at Fillmore Glen State Park.
