Phelps, New York camping options typically stretch from mid-April through late October, with elevations ranging from 500-700 feet above sea level. The region experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most campgrounds near Phelps report high weekend occupancy from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with significantly more availability during weekdays and shoulder seasons.
What to do
Fishing at Junius Ponds: This campground offers a dedicated fishing area where campers report successful catches using simple bait. "The campground is well maintained and has clean restrooms. There are many options for different sites. They offer themed weekends and have activities for kids," notes Amy T.
Explore hiking trails: Watkins Glen State Park Campground, located about 30 miles from Phelps, offers exceptional hiking opportunities. "I stay here usually once or twice a year and spend my weekends hiking the various gorge trails nearby. Tent camping is nice here. The sites are good sized, they offer cabins as well," explains Deb S.
Golf and recreation: Canandaigua-Rochester KOA provides multiple recreation options beyond swimming. "This KOA has all that you need for a relaxing family trip. It is close to the finger lakes, is clean, has kid activities and a pond where the fish are easy to catch with hotdogs!" according to Amy T.
Visit Finger Lakes wineries: The region surrounding Keuka Lake State Park Campground is known for its wineries. "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," reports Helen H.
What campers like
Large, private sites: Many campers appreciate the spaciousness at Sampson State Park Campground. "Huge sites. Spacious park. Wonderful beach and nice fishing areas," writes Matt Z. Another camper adds, "Large sites. Pets allowed in some loops. Marina convenience store with pontoon boat rentals."
Swimming options: Lake access ranks high among camper priorities. "This was a perfect weekend getaway. Kayaking in Cayuga Lake was not lacking some beautiful views. The sites are slightly close together but everyone was incredibly respectful and quiet by 10pm," notes Laura Nicole A. about Cayuga Lake State Park Campground.
Military history: Sampson State Park offers unique historical elements. "Right on the water front of Seneca Lake(a Finger lake in Central NY) It was a Naval training base during WWll... It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era," explains Brian O.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention clean amenities. "Well maintained and friendly staff. Clean facilities. Most sites can accommodate large rigs with full hookups," reports Jim C. about Junius Ponds, adding "Campground offered two free hours of WiFi which is week but is currently being updated."
What you should know
Spring weather challenges: Weather patterns affect ground conditions, particularly in spring. According to a review of Cheerful Valley Campground: "The campground is on a beautiful spot - I could stare at the views all day. We didn't get to check out the entire property, but was happy with what we saw."
Seasonal camper presence: Several campgrounds have high numbers of seasonal residents. "A would be beautiful campground is over run with seasonal campers and their golf carts. These fine folks never stop driving and take the time to walk and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings," reports Ryan D. about Junius Ponds.
Site selection importance: At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, site location matters. "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful. 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," notes Laura L.
Pet restrictions: Some areas limit where pets can go. "Dogs are allowed but they are not allowed on the gorge trail. I'm ok with this I just wish I had know before we got there," mentions Lindsay C. about Watkins Glen State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: The best places to camp near Phelps, New York for families often include programmed events. "The campground has do much to do between swimming, golf, bike and paddle boat rentals. There's Ziplines with treetop walk and a bounce. And even a play area for your dogs," says Rich L. about Canandaigua-Rochester KOA.
Playground access: Families value recreation areas. "A cute Campground with lots for the kids, events, and fabulous staff. Facilities are in good shape," notes Sparks N. about the KOA. Another camper adds, "My teenagers even enjoyed the playground!"
Swimming options: Lake Bluff RV Park offers swimming amenities that children enjoy. "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," shares Sara H.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide learning experiences. "This is a family friendly area. Don't miss the Naval museum at Sampson State Park," mentions one camper. Another notes, "Seneca lake is a short drive away for great fishing, kayaking and swimming. Also a short Drive away is a Farm Sanctuary that my son very much enjoyed."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and layout: RVers should check site specifications before booking. "We stopped here for the night and it was very pretty, quiet, and clean. The roads are narrow and hilly, but we pull a 36' 5th wheel (mid-profile) and we had no issues with branches. They had a oversized, long pull through available (site 88) that made entering and exiting the site nice and easy," shares Kristine B. about Junius Ponds.
Electric hookup considerations: Power connections require planning. "Electric service boxes are shared in-between sites. This could pose an issue if your power cord is not long enough," warns Amanda K. about Sampson State Park.
Water access logistics: Water fill stations may have limitations. "There is only one source for water fill up. This could end up being a very very long wait if you arrive at the same time as other campers," notes an RVer about Sampson State Park.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds present access issues for larger vehicles. "We've stayed at a lot of KOA sites over the years and this one is as pleasant as expected. It is an excellent campground for families. The sites for large rigs are very close together but that is not surprising," reports Frank M.
