Finger Lakes camping options near Painted Post, New York range from simple sites to full-featured campgrounds across varied terrain. Located in the Southern Tier region at approximately 930 feet elevation, this area experiences warm summers and cold winters with camping season typically running May through October. Rainfall averages 36 inches annually, creating lush forested camping areas throughout the region.
What to do
Wine tasting tours: Access numerous Finger Lakes wineries from Finger Lakes RV Resort, where walking paths connect directly to neighboring vineyards. "Amazing RV park! Located about 1/3 of the way up the eastern side of Seneca Lake, the location provides easy access to the wineries, distilleries, and breweries along the lake," notes Craig F.
Waterfall hikes: Explore multiple waterfall trails within 30 minutes of rv parks near Painted Post. "We stayed at Finger Lakes RV Resort in Hector, a short drive from Watkins Glen and Ithaca, in search of waterfalls and wine in the Finger Lakes region of NY state," shares Matt S., who recommends visiting Taughannock State Park's Gorge & North Ridge Trail.
Racing events: Plan around Watkins Glen International racing schedule when booking campsites. Camp Bell Campground offers stable rates even during race weekends. "They are within a 20 minute drive to Watkins Glen race way and do not raise prices for camping that weekend," notes Robyn M.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies significantly between campgrounds. Ferenbaugh Campground maintains well-regarded facilities despite water quality issues. "They have a well stocked store with grocery necessities, camping necessities, snacks and Hersey ice cream. They have a beautiful in-ground pool, fenced in pond for catch and release fishing and live music one weekend a month," reports Gary V., who adds, "The only bad comment I would make is there water is very smelly and brown."
Spacious sites: Site sizes differ dramatically across the region. "Lots of Trees and Shade OR Plenty of Grass and Sun; whichever is your preference, they have you covered!" notes Nicole D. about Ferenbaugh Campground, while others mention the generous spacing at newer facilities.
Pool amenities: Many rv parks near Painted Post, New York feature swimming pools, with Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds offering additional water attractions. "Kids had a great time at this campground. Two playgrounds, a pool, two jumping pillows, mini train, carousel, and activities," writes reviewer B.C.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Sediment and odor issues affect several campgrounds. "Make sure you use a water filter, there was a lot of sediment in the water when we were there. See pictures of 4 days on a new cartridge," warns Michael H. about Ferenbaugh Campground.
Weekend crowds: Holiday and summer weekends fill quickly at popular campgrounds. "It does get very crowded on the weekends so make sure your kiddos know car safety," cautions Missy about Jellystone Park.
Site selection considerations: Spruce Row Campground can be noisy in certain locations. "The campground is primarily seasonal sites and the sites are very close together. We were on an end spot at an intersection inside the campground. Lots of golf carts after whizzing around and due to our campsite location they unfortunately were able to shine their lights on us every time they turned the corner after dark while we were around our camp fire," reports Jodi.
Entry road challenges: Some campgrounds have steep access roads. Regarding Jellystone Park, B.C. advises, "The entry road to the campground itself is a very steep, narrow road with a small curve at the top. It's well-maintained but keep an eye out for campers coming down. There's space for getting by but it's tight."
Tips for camping with families
Adventure activities: Multiple campgrounds offer structured recreation for children. "Very clean facilities, lots for kids to do despite Covid. We always get a site on the outside of the main circle by the tower slide. There's lots of shade and optimum view of both playgrounds to keep an eye on the kiddos," recommends Missy about Jellystone Park.
Free vs. paid activities: Hickory Hill Camping Resort includes activities in the site fee. "There is a lot to do at Hickory Hill and everything is included in your site fee. The staff is helpful. They have multiple pools, a sprayground, mini golf, crafts, clean bathrooms and dog stations throughout the grounds," explains Amy T.
Pet policies: Dog restrictions vary by campground. "This camp is full of nice people. Lots of dogs are here, and they bark all day and start again at 6:30 am," reports Scott H. about Camp Bell Campground, suggesting noise might be an issue for light sleepers.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Gravel pads often require adjustment. "The site we booked online had bad measurements, so when we got there we found our trailer wouldn't fit. The camp map is close but not very accurate, so calling them to book if you have any questions is the way to go," advises B.C. about Jellystone Park.
GPS accuracy: Navigation systems sometimes provide incorrect directions to campgrounds. "Standard GPS directions for this campground are wrong, (coming from 15N they have you turn right at the end of the ramp, you need to turn left) So plot your route before you go," warns B.C.
Water filtration: Bring heavy-duty water filters to most rv parks in Painted Post area. "I actually bought a dual stage water filter and change it every two weeks," notes Gary V. about his extended stay at Ferenbaugh Campground.
Wi-Fi reliability: Internet access quality varies dramatically. At Finger Lakes RV Resort, Laura W. reports, "Wifi was strong enough to do work calls," while many other campgrounds offer limited or unreliable connectivity.
