Campsites near Naples, New York range in elevation from valley locations to higher viewpoints at 2,256 feet above sea level at Ontario County Park. Campgrounds in this region operate primarily from May through October, with some extending their season into early November. Most facilities require advanced booking, especially for weekend stays during peak foliage season when temperatures range from 70-85°F in summer to 50-65°F in early fall.
What to do
Hiking trails with lake views: At Keuka Lake State Park Campground, campers can access multiple trails with panoramic views of Keuka Lake's west fork. "Keuka is a great place to do trail runs or takes boat out for the day. The hills provide a nice challenge and the lake makes a perfect paddling spot for both non and motorized boaters," notes Karen G.
Swimming options: For families looking for water activities, several campgrounds offer swimming areas. "Stony Brook is one of my all time favs. A clean and welcoming park with gorgeous views and trails for all adventurers," shares Brittany B. The park features a distinctive natural swimming pool carved from the mountain.
Winery tours: The campgrounds near Naples provide convenient access to the Finger Lakes wine region. Many visitors combine camping with day trips to local wineries. As Helen H. explains about staying at Keuka Lake, "It is an easy drive around Keuka Lake which is surrounded by award winning wineries, breweries and distilleries."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campers consistently mention the generous spacing between sites at Stony Brook State Park Campground. "The hike through the gorge to see all the waterfalls is stunning and can't be passed up. The actual campsite set up is always what gets me, because I prefer to be secluded and remote," reports Emily S.
Clean facilities: Many reviewers highlight the cleanliness of campground facilities. At Holiday Hill Campground, "The campground has clean bathrooms and Verizon reception is consistent at 3 bars," according to Terry F. This contrasts with other campgrounds in the area where cell service may be limited.
Wildlife viewing: Campers appreciate the abundance of wildlife at campsites near Naples. "Deer, chipmunks and rabbits will say hi in the early and late hours," notes Dayne B. about his stay at Ontario County Park. Early morning and dusk provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs significantly between campgrounds. At Flint Creek Campgrounds, "dont expect any cell phone service. I've had friends who climbed up on top of their RV and still, no signal," warns Lela S. This campground is noted for being particularly remote.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for summer weekends and during fall foliage season. The most desirable sites fill quickly at popular parks like Watkins Glen and Letchworth.
Campground layouts: Site privacy varies between and within campgrounds. At Keuka Lake State Park, one camper advises, "Stay on the outside perimeter of the loops or you might have foot traffic thru your site to shower/toilet houses & water taps. Camp sites are NOT on the lake but a short drive will get you there."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer playground facilities for children. At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, "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. This provides recreation options when not hiking.
Swimming alternatives: When weather conditions aren't ideal for swimming, have backup activities planned. "Keuka Lake State Park is located in the Finger Lakes region, on the east side of the west branch of beautiful Keuka Lake. There are several trails leading from the campground down to the boat launch, pavilions, large playground and beach area," explains Helen H.
Weekly activities: Some campgrounds schedule regular events for families. At Country Charm Campground, "The new campground owners have made many improvements and arrange breakfast and pot luck dinners which are a great way to meet fellow campers and make new friends," reports Judith B.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RVers should come prepared with leveling blocks, as several campgrounds feature uneven sites. At Ontario County Park, Jonathan G. notes, "make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level."
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites tend to be limited at campgrounds in the Naples area. "Spacious, private campsites, well maintained. Dogs welcome!" reports Lynda M. about Keuka Lake State Park, which offers electric hookups but not full sewer connections at most sites.
Navigational challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow access roads that can be challenging for larger RVs. At Watkins Glen, Laura L. cautions, "We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves." Calling ahead to confirm site accessibility is recommended for RVs over 30 feet.
