Camping near Naples, New York offers diverse outdoor experiences within the western Finger Lakes region, where elevations range from 700 to 2,100 feet above sea level. The area features hardwood forests, steep hillsides, and ravines carved by glacial activity. Most campgrounds remain open from May through mid-October, with overnight temperatures in summer typically ranging from 50-60°F, requiring appropriate sleeping gear even in peak season.
What to do
Hiking on interconnected trails: Ontario County Park connects directly to the Finger Lakes Trail system, allowing hikers to explore multiple terrains. "Great secluded tent camping (recommend numbers 7 and 8)... Stunning overlook that is breathtaking... Hiking, bike trails, fishing pond, playground, open fields for sports, much more," notes Sarah C. about Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill.
Waterfall exploration: The region contains numerous accessible waterfalls within short driving distances. "Waterfalls and gorges typical of Finger Lakes area, reminiscent of Watkins Glen in a lot of ways but less crowded. There are some areas to swim in the natural water here," shares Dan N. about the scenic options at Stony Brook State Park Campground.
Wine trail visits: The Finger Lakes wine region surrounds Naples, offering numerous tasting options. "It is an easy drive around Keuka Lake which is surrounded by award winning wineries, breweries and distilleries. The Village of Penn Yan at the north end has several quaint shops, restaurants, two grocery stores, a movie theater, a department store, pharmacies and more," explains Helen H. about the amenities near Keuka Lake.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural screening between campsites. "Large, woody sites. Stay on the outside perimeter of the loops or you might have foot traffic thru your site to shower/toilet houses & water taps," advises Rebecca E. about Keuka Lake State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities remain a consistent positive. "The bathroom/shower facility in our loop was modern and kept very clean. The roads leading to the sites, and the within the loops, are paved, and the sites are quite level," notes Helen H. about her experience camping near the lakes.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Regular wildlife encounters enhance the camping experience. "Beautiful playground for my son to enjoy and meet other kiddos. Deer, chipmunks and rabbits will say hi in the early and late hours," shares Dayne B. about his visits to the region's parks.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from May through October only. "Large sites, clean facilities, great location, beautiful lake. Keuka Lake State Park is located in the Finger Lakes region, on the east side of the west branch of beautiful Keuka Lake. Three camping loops are located on the hill above the lake," explains Helen H.
Site selection strategy: Some locations require careful site selection. "Large grassy sites with privacy between the sites. Most sites have a good level gravel pad to park on. We stayed in the non-electric loop with a small travel trailer, but there are electric sites available," advises Joseph B. about his stay at Keuka Lake.
Cell service limitations: Reception can be unreliable in certain camping areas. "It's out in the middle of nowhere, hard to find but extremely worth it. However, don't expect any cell phone service. I've had friends who climbed up on top of their RV and still, no signal," warns Lela S. about Flint Creek Campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many campgrounds offer play areas for children of different ages. "This campground is close to home, easily accessible, close to grocery stores and has a beautiful beach and playground for kids," mentions Alyssa C. about family amenities at Letchworth State Park Campground.
Natural swimming options: Some parks provide unique swimming environments beyond typical pool facilities. "Affordable, Family friendly, loved the waterfalls. There is natural clay which my children used to make clay pots which air dried on the grass by our playground. We picked blueberries off a bush near our campsite to have with our breakfast every morning," shares Dorothy P.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer learning experiences alongside recreation. "Along one trail you will find the Beddoe-Rose family cemetery containing the graves of fourteen members of two of the area's earliest setters and best known families. This cemetery is listed on the National Park Service's National Register of Historic Places," points out Helen H.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling preparation: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring equipment adjustments. "Only downside is that the RV sites don't have much shade but the tent sites do. Also make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level," cautions Jonathan G. about Country Charm Campground.
Electric hookup variations: Power options differ between campgrounds. "Sites are a good size. No cell service. WiFi only available at the lodge. We probably would have enjoyed this campground a bit more if the weather wasn't so terrible," notes Sparks N. about Flint Creek Campgrounds.
Road navigation challenges: Some campground roads present maneuvering difficulties. "The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," cautions Laura L. about navigating larger vehicles through wooded campgrounds.