The Finger Lakes region near Palmyra, New York sits at elevations between 400-600 feet above sea level, characterized by rolling hills, glacial valleys, and numerous waterways. The camping season typically runs from mid-April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during the day and cooling to 50-65°F at night. Fall temperatures can drop into the 30s overnight, making additional layers essential for yurt camping and other accommodations.
What to do
Explore lakeside trails: Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill offers extensive hiking opportunities with scenic valley overlooks. One visitor noted, "Stunning overlook that is breathtaking. Hiking, bike trails, fishing pond, playground, open fields for sports, much more!"
Visit military history sites: Sampson State Park Campground preserves a piece of American military heritage. "It was a Naval training base during WWll. About 45 minutes from Rochester and about hr and half from Syracuse. It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era," explains one camper.
Enjoy water recreation: From swimming to fishing, lakefront activities abound. At Lake Bluff RV Park, campers appreciate the "pond, catch and release fishing" while others mentioned that "the creek is wonderful to fish in and sit by" at Cheerful Valley.
Bike the park roads: Webster Park's paved loops create perfect cycling conditions for families. A reviewer mentioned, "Nice central playground and bathroom/shower house. There is hiking in the park, lots of nice woods, big field for playing games/sports."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Cayuga Lake State Park Campground offers larger camping areas. "Sites were very spacious! Great camping location with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy or just sit and enjoy the peace," notes one visitor.
Modern facilities: Many campgrounds feature updated amenities. At Letchworth State Park Campground, "The bathrooms are practically luxurious by most camping standards, with single-use restroom/showers available at all hours."
Family-oriented activities: Campgrounds in the region prioritize kid-friendly entertainment. A camper at Flint Creek Campgrounds shared, "Dog and kid friendly with activities such as wagon rides, arts and crafts, movie night and various themed weekend events. The hosts were super friendly and welcoming during our entire stay."
Year-round natural beauty: The changing seasons offer different experiences. "Visit in the fall for unrivaled scenery (better than New England in my opinion!). Great area for biking, kayaking, swimming, hiking, fishing, plus winery tours," remarked a Cayuga Lake visitor.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: At some locations, connectivity is minimal. At Flint Creek Campgrounds, visitors report, "Don't expect any cell phone service. I've had friends who climbed up on top of their RV and still, no signal."
Weather considerations: Spring camping may encounter challenges. A reviewer at Cheerful Valley noted, "The spring can be tricky with the rain, some sites can get messy."
Reservations recommended: Popular parks fill quickly, especially on weekends. At Junius Ponds, "Most sites can accommodate large rigs with full hookups. Reservations recommended especially during summer weekends."
Site selection matters: Research specific site numbers for privacy or amenities. "We stayed in the 800 loop along the tree line. Sites were very spacious!" shared a Cayuga Lake camper, while another advised, "Some sites are close to the highway, so be sure to pick a spot that isn't."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites near play areas for convenience. At Webster Park, one parent recommends, "We stay close to the playground these days in our pop up usually at site 5 so our 5 and 9 year old can walk or ride to campground."
Youth activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular children's events. At Sampson State Park, amenities include "Recreation Hall, swimming, fishing, great lake front playground, camp store, hiking trails (many wheelchair friendly) and boating."
Multiple recreation options: Look for campgrounds with diverse activities. "Our first KOA stop, so can't compare to other KOAs, but this place has a good number of family activities and events. Our 3 and 5 year olds really enjoyed the jump pad and woods obstacles," shared a visitor about Canandaigua-Rochester KOA.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer learning experiences alongside recreation. "Follow the Finger Lakes Trail all the way into town," suggested one Ontario County Park visitor, while another noted the value of the "military museum" at Sampson State Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Bring additional equipment for uneven terrain. At Ontario County Park, "Make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level."
Hookup placement: Check utility locations before selecting sites. A Junius Ponds camper observed, "Well maintained and friendly staff. Clean facilities. Most sites can accommodate large rigs with full hookups."
Access considerations: Some roads may challenge larger rigs. For yurt camping near Palmyra, New York, many opt for established campgrounds rather than navigating difficult terrain. At Flint Creek, "It's out in the middle of nowhere, hard to find but extremely worth it."
Dump station availability: Check facilities before arrival. Webster Park provides "30a power and no water or sewer, 50a power and water, and 50a power and water/sewer. There is a dump station."
