The Newark, New York area offers a mix of RV campgrounds within driving distance of the Erie Canal and Finger Lakes region. Located at approximately 430 feet above sea level, this region experiences distinct seasonal changes with warm summers averaging 80°F and cold winters that can dip below freezing. Fall camping is particularly popular due to vibrant foliage, though sites at Newark area campgrounds can fill months in advance during peak season.
What to do
Explore canal-side recreation: Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort in Macedon provides direct access to canal activities. "Kayak launches and boat marina nearby. The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it.... Kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area and the pool far enough from the campsites but close to the store and watchful eye of the staff," notes Rachel T.
Visit nearby wineries: Finger Lakes RV Resort offers easy access to wine country. "Walking paths from the campground to two different wineries. Really nice pavilion for group gatherings and watching the sunset," shares Matt S. The resort is "a short drive from Watkins Glen and Ithaca, in search of waterfalls and wine in the Finger Lakes region of NY state."
Explore Chimney Bluffs: The unique rock formations at Chimney Bluff State Park are just minutes from Lake Bluff RV Park. "Just around the corner from chimney bluff state park which are a must see!" says Keri, who appreciated the campground's proximity to this natural wonder.
What campers like
Family-friendly activities: Southwoods RV Resort offers numerous recreation options. "Two well kept pools, playgrounds, laundry facilities, mini golf, soccer, basketball. The employees are so helpful and nice! We enjoyed our stays and will be back," reports Hope C. Another camper adds: "Bathrooms were very clean. Quiet campground. Lots of plays areas for kids."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Lake Bluff RV Park receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "This is our favorite place! Not too far away clean! Friendly family owned! Pool, frog pond, catch and release fishing. Has a nice camp store. They do events for kids every weekend," writes Sara H. Another reviewer noted: "Had a large, private plot in drumlin loop. Close to the beach which was very pretty and clean."
Beautiful lakeside location: South Shore RV Park offers scenic water views. "Quite campground, well maintained, clean bathhouse, definitely will stay again," says Jeff F., who specifically highlighted the "Amazing sunsets!" at this Sodus Point facility.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra preparation for RVs. At Twilight on the Erie, one camper reported: "Almost all of the sites are not even close to level. Not a big issue with a fifth wheel but a real hassle with a motorcoach. We changed sites three times and finally resigned ourselves to not being leveled."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the Newark area close for winter. Hejamada Camping Resort operates from "May 1 to October 15" while others like Lake Bluff RV Park run from "April 15 to October 31." Seasonal closures affect nearly all area campgrounds except South Shore RV Park, which advertises "All year" availability.
Pest concerns: Be prepared for insects at certain times. One camper at Hejamada noted: "We stayed over Labor Day weekend and ended up leaving a day early due to sewage smells from the leech fields, an insane amount of mosquitos, and rude staff."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated children's programming: Twilight on the Erie offers structured activities. "Live music on Friday Night (weather permitting) and plenty of activities for the family on the weekends," shares Rachel T., highlighting the resort's family focus.
Choose campgrounds with recreation variety: Woonton Family Farms offers unique experiences. "Woonton Family Farms is new to the Dyrt and offer a stunning farm with trails, water and forest to explore," notes Jake C. Another visitor shared: "We had a great campfire, fresh blackberries and the option of canoeing."
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds offer quieter sections. At Lake Bluff, campers appreciate the "huge site near a little stream" and note the campground "isn't very big with lots of seasonsals" but offers "lots of activities for kids."
Tips from RVers
Book early for peak seasons: Finger Lakes RV Resort can fill completely on holidays. "We booked early, which was a good thing because they were 100% full for Indigenous People's Day," one reviewer noted, adding that "all of the sites are very nicely spread out with generous spacing."
Check Wi-Fi reliability: Internet access varies across campgrounds. At Finger Lakes RV Resort, campers report "excellent Wi-Fi, large sites, level and graveled parking pad" and note the "Wifi was strong enough to do work calls," making it suitable for remote workers.
Verify big-rig accessibility: Not all RV campgrounds near Newark can accommodate larger rigs. While Southwoods and South Shore RV Park advertise big-rig friendly sites, others like Port Bay Camping and RV Park have more limited capacity with just "40 sites" total and may not accommodate larger vehicles.
