The Finger Lakes National Forest surrounds West Danby, New York, offering forest camping experiences between 1,300 and 2,000 feet elevation. This region typically experiences warm summers with high humidity and cold winters with significant snowfall. Many camping spots near West Danby feature unique gorge trails and natural swimming areas fed by seasonal waterfalls, with most sites located within a 30-minute drive of town.
What to do
Hike scenic gorge trails: At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, multiple trail options accommodate different skill levels. "The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!" notes Laura L. The park features 19 waterfalls along narrow stone walls for dramatic scenery during day hikes.
Swim in natural pools: The swimming areas at many parks provide refreshing options during summer months. "Beautiful waterfall swimming pool is very cold, but great on a hot day," explains a camper at Robert H. Treman State Park Campground. Some swimming areas include diving boards and designated sections with lifeguards.
Explore multiple parks: The central location allows easy access to several parks. "Good central location for exploring the Finger Lakes, Watkins Glen, Seneca Falls, Cornell and Ithaca," writes a visitor about Robert H. Treman. Many campers use their site as a base for visiting multiple attractions over several days.
Pick wild blueberries: Seasonal fruit picking adds a unique dimension to camping trips. "There are in fact blueberries! And a great field to see the stars from," reports a camper about the aptly named Blueberry Patch Campground. The best picking typically occurs in July and August.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the space and natural screening at Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground. "We were happy with the sites—nothing too special. The real highlight is the park itself!" explains Sara S. The smaller campground size creates a more intimate experience compared to larger facilities.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers receive frequent praise. "The bathhouses are clean and well lit at night," reports Deb S. about Watkins Glen State Park. Most state parks offer hot showers included with camping fees.
Natural soundscapes: The peaceful atmosphere helps visitors disconnect. "We woke up to thrushes singing and fell asleep to nightingales and owls calling!" shares a camper at Blueberry Patch Campground. The forest setting provides natural white noise from streams and rustling leaves.
Flat camping areas: Many sites offer level ground for comfortable tent setup. "Site 54 at Robert H Treman is very large, flat, nonelectric and well shaded with areas of sun," notes a visitor. This makes for easier camping, especially for families with multiple tents.
What you should know
Campsite differences: Quality varies significantly across parks and within each campground. "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," warns Victoria about Robert H. Treman. Research specific site numbers when making reservations.
Water access restrictions: Not all campgrounds provide direct water hookups or drinking water. "BRING WATER. There are no water sources near the site," advises Neil H. about Blueberry Patch Campground. Plan accordingly, especially for primitive sites.
Weekend crowds: Popular parks fill quickly during peak season. "I would describe the hikes as moderately difficult. The main one has a lot of steps but lots of walkway in between them," reports Jennifer W. about Taughannock Falls State Park Campground. Weekday visits offer more solitude.
Reservation requirements: First-come, first-served sites fill early, especially on weekends. "I've seen this campground fill up fast on summer weekends," warns a Blueberry Patch visitor. Some campgrounds require cash payment on-site rather than advance reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature recently updated play areas. "Great playgrounds for the kids," mentions a Robert H. Treman visitor. Buttermilk Falls also offers "fields for playing games or taking a stroll," according to Carrie J.
Swimming safety: Natural swimming areas vary in depth and conditions. At Park Station Campground, "water is very shallow however, so not the best place for swimming for older kids and there is no pool, but there are life guards and plenty of depth for young kids," explains Jessica G. Check with rangers about current conditions.
Educational trails: Many parks incorporate learning opportunities along trails. "Lots of educational posters along the way to keep you informed of what you were seeing and the history about how it was created," notes Steve W. about Taughannock Falls. These features engage children while hiking.
Family-friendly campsites: Look for specific site recommendations. "The campground is very walkable to the swimming area, which goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of," notes Barbara S. about Taughannock Falls. Sites closer to amenities reduce walking distance for young children.
Tips from RVers
Limited electric options: Electric sites have trade-offs compared to non-electric areas. "The new loop is a large field—we got one of the few shady sites in the new loop. Old loop has plenty of trees, but sites are much smaller," explains a Robert H. Treman camper. Reserve well in advance for electric sites with shade.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult roads or tight turns. "The roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," cautions Laura L. about navigating Watkins Glen State Park with a 30-foot motorhome. Call ahead to verify accessibility for larger rigs.
Gravel pads: Surface conditions affect comfort and setup. "Gravel sites help keep the camper clean and keeps the mud down," notes Mike C. about Park Station Campground. However, Jessica G. cautions that these surfaces can be challenging for tent campers: "Campsites are mostly all on gravel so make sure you bring air mattresses or lots of padding if you will be in a tent."
Hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placement when selecting sites. "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords," advises Beth about Taughannock Falls.
