Glamping close to Mottville, New York provides easy access to both Cayuga and Seneca lakes with camping options at elevations between 380-900 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most glamping sites across the Finger Lakes remain open from mid-April through late October, with several parks extending their season through early November.
What to do
Swimming in natural settings: Robert H. Treman State Park Campground features a swimming area beneath a waterfall with a diving board. "You can swim in the waterfall area here... the hiking trails are awesome. Don't let the beginning steps fool you, the rim trail can be very strenuous," notes Matt G. The park maintains this natural swimming hole from late May through early September.
Boating and fishing: Sampson State Park Campground offers marina services with boat rentals. "Marina convenience store with pontoon boat rentals, fishing, swimming, ice cream and concessions stand, arcade room, outdoor movie screen," lists Amanda K. in her review. The marina operates daily from 8am-7pm during summer months.
Hiking gorge trails: Watkins Glen State Park Campground features 19 waterfalls along its signature gorge trail. "The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!" advises Laura L. The main gorge trail spans 1.5 miles with 832 steps from entrance to upper pavilion.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Cayuga Lake State Park Campground offers well-spaced camping areas, particularly in certain loops. "We stayed in the 800 loop along the tree line. Sites were very spacious! Great camping location with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy or just sit and enjoy the peace," reports Colleen M.
Clean facilities: Taughannock Falls State Park Campground maintains modern shower facilities. "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," writes Barbara S.
Family activities: Green Lakes State Park Campground offers various recreation options beyond camping. "The hiking includes an easy 3.1 mile loop with much shade around two glacier formed turquoise lakes. The beach area is wide and shallow in most areas. In close proximity to the store and snack shop (ICE CREAM). Just past the swimming area is boat rentals ($7/hr for row boat rental)," details Sheri S.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Lake Bluff Campground extends its season through late October. "Took a video to show our favorite camp site," shares Sara H., who mentions camping there multiple times in a season. "If you camp 6 nights in one season you get a night free!"
Site selection matters: Taughannock Falls sites vary in privacy and location. "The upper part of the campground is pretty private, while the lower end near the entrance/exit is more open. There is a small playground for kids," notes Barbara S. Sites numbered 30-45 offer more shade and privacy than the entrance area sites.
Shower facilities vary: Robert H. Treman State Park Campground provides free hot showers. "The bathrooms were clean, with multiple free, hot showers. I believe there were separate dishwashing sinks inside the restrooms," explains Emma N. Most state park campgrounds in the area offer similar facilities, though quality and cleanliness can vary by location.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sampson State Park offers excellent play areas. "Nice playgrounds. Paved loops - good for bikes and scooters," highlights Amanda K. The main playground is centrally located near the beach area with equipment suitable for children ages 5-12.
Swimming options for different ages: Green Lakes provides graduated swim areas. "Beach for swimming with concession stand with quite a full menu. Beach also has a great playground for kids that is perfect for play and swim," shares Kelly J. The swimming area includes a designated shallow section for younger children.
Educational opportunities: Visit the military history exhibits at Sampson State Park. "It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era," explains Brian O. The museum operates daily from 9:30am-4:30pm during camping season with free admission for registered campers.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Junius Ponds Cabins and Campgrounds offers full hookup sites with specific arrangements. "Most sites can accommodate large rigs with full hookups. Reservations recommended especially during summer weekends. Well priced $42 per night for full hookups," advises Jim C. Their premium sites include 50-amp service, water, and sewer.
Site leveling: Sned Acres Campground provides well-maintained sites. "The sites are nicely spaced so you aren't on top of each other. Great place to call home base while exploring the finger lakes," notes Kate A. Most sites are relatively level with gravel pads requiring minimal additional leveling.
Shower alternatives: When glamping close to Mottville, New York, consider campgrounds with dedicated shower facilities. "The bathrooms on site weren't the cleanest. There was dirt and mud on the floors, and there was no hand towels," reports Kari M. about Cayuga Lake. Many experienced RVers recommend using their own shower facilities during peak season weekends.
