If you want to explore the beauty of Phelps, glamping is an excellent option. Camping has always been a favorite form of travel for many, but Phelps, NY glamping is a new and unique way to do it. You're sure to find glamping for your New York camping excursion.
Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks, with a reputation for leaving visitors spellbound. Within two miles, the glen's stream descends 400 feet past 200-foot cliffs, generating 19 waterfalls along its course. The gorge path winds over and under waterfalls and through the spray of Cavern Cascade. Rim trails overlook the gorge. Camping near Watkins Glen allows you to enjoy the Olympic-size pool, scheduled summer tours through the gorge, tent and trailer campsites, picnic facilities and excellent fishing in nearby Seneca Lake or Catherine Creek, which is renowned for its annual spring run of rainbow trout.
Located in Western New York state, about 45 miles southwest of Rochester, Letchworth State Park is known as the “Grand Canyon of the East.” Straddling the Genesee River for 17 miles the park encompasses more than 14,000 acres of deep river canyon and dense woodlands. The area was purchased in 1859 by William Pryor Letchworth, who recognized its natural and scenic value. He then granted it to the state in 1906 to be preserved as a public park. The park’s main attraction is the three dramatic waterfalls on the Genesee, which pour over escarpments up to 100 feet high. In addition to the spectacular scenery, the park also offers year-round outdoor recreation, from hiking, fishing and birdwatching to a variety of snow play.
The large campground in Letchworth State Park makes a good basecamp for exploring the area’s many sights and recreation opportunities. It contains 270 tent, trailer and RV sites in eight separate loops. All sites have electrical hookups, and there are water spigots, restrooms with showers, recycling stations and a dump station available. Additional accommodations in the park include camping cabins and the Glen Iris Inn. Visitors also have access to several picnic areas and playgrounds, a swimming pool, sports fields, trout pond, a museum, and nature center. Campsite rates range from $24–$26/night, plus additional fees; cabin and lodge rates vary; reservations recommended.
The best way to see many of the park’s sights is to get out and walk, hike or bike on any of the 66 miles of multiuse trails that wind through the park, and vary in distance and difficulty. The waterfalls are best viewed along the 7-mile Gorge Trail. One of the more unique and exciting ways to see the park is by hot air balloon. Other activities in the park include paddling on the river, nature programs, guided walks, and interpretive exhibits. The park also offers some of the best birdwatching in the state. In winter, many of the park’s trails become snowshoe and cross-country ski routes, and a few are even open to snowmobiles, so no matter what time of year you visit, there’s a way to play outdoors.
Finger Lakes Family Camping At Junius Ponds If you're looking for a peaceful campground setting with a family-friendly atmosphere, and tons of activities, then Junius Ponds Cabins & Campground is the perfect spot for you! Join us by pitching a tent, renting a cabin, or by parking your RV. We've got sites you will fall in love with after just one stay that will make you want to start a family tradition. Whether you are just passing through or planning a vacation with us you will not be disappointed with your stay. We simply offer the best camping experience you can have within the Finger Lakes location, complete with camping amenities and a broad selection of camping activities. There is something to do for everyone, check out our activities for our different weekend events.
$36 - $999 / night
Nestled among the blue waters of Lake Ontario in northern New York, Lake Bluff Campground is a family-oriented Wayne County campground just one mile from Chimney Bluffs State Park. Bring the whole family and truly get away from the push and pull of your everyday life! Whether you stay for a weekend, month, or longer, our Lake Ontario RV resort is the ideal place for your next family vacation, romantic weekend getaway, or family reunion.
$48 - $999 / night
$25 - $99 / night
$18 - $25 / night
Guide
Pulled back and punted bc of Storm Debbie. Lucked out with a find in the Finger Lakes. Nice campground. Has everything you need. Small sites but fine for our hybrid. Ours was shady. Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you’ll need extra long cords. Just beautiful area. Hiked here. Drove to Watkins Glen-hiked-absolutely breathtaking. That campground is much larger. Went to Buttermilk Falls too.
Traveler
I love that despite there being so many sites, you don’t feel on top of each other in Seneca Village. It’s a state campground so don’t expect it to be anything close to dispersed camping. Trees separated me from my neighbors on either side, woods behind my tent, lots of quiet, no one blasted music or anything like that. I woke up to seeing trees above me and hearing birds. The bathroom was clean, with multiple ways to enter it without going near someone else’s site. The campground felt safe, and you are able to buy firewood (I didn’t due to quite a bit of rain). To get to the gorge trail, you have to walk over to the next site (Oswego I think) but it’s not too far. I would most likely stay at that loop next time though because it seemed to have even more space on each site. I didn’t see any bears and asked a few workers but only one had seen a bear the entire time they’ve been there. Definitely recommend this location. Lots of beautiful trails, red cat wine slushies were delicious, grounds were fun to explore and people were either friendly or kept to themselves which was great. Super dog friendly and I met many of them! Just a note, dogs are NOT allowed on the gorge trail.
Scout
Nice trails and lots to do. Verizon coverage at our campsite was mostly non-existent. Showers were spacious but floors were always wet from floors not being sloped properly. Yea, we're shower snobs. :). Beautiful waterfalls and gorge!
Scout
After 6 years of 2 weeks visits
Pros: New owners have made improvements to be up to code and qualifications for KOA standards.
Cons: Still has environment of nosy, trashy seasonal campers who are always being rude or commenting on your gear/unit.
If you are looking for a quick flip bit same ole suspects, this is the place for you.
Scout
Tent camping here felt like we were camping in a neighborhood backyard. We could hear so many different families talking and really doing everything you do while camping but the area felt so open and unobstructed voices carried and in the evening when everyone was building campfires the smoke could be overwhelming at times.
TravelerNice campground, sites are borderline close, and some are laid out funky. Bath houses get the job done, but nothing exciting.
Guide
5/5 Stars!
I recently stayed at Sned Acres Campground, and it was an incredible experience! The campground is beautifully maintained with stunning views of Cayuga Lake. The staff was friendly, welcoming, and went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed. The facilities were spotless, and the campsites were spacious and well-kept. Whether you’re RVing or tent camping, there’s plenty of space and privacy.
The location is perfect for exploring the Finger Lakes region, with wineries, hiking, and local attractions just a short drive away. The peaceful atmosphere and serene surroundings made for a relaxing getaway. I can’t recommend Sned Acres enough – we’ll definitely be back!
Guide
I stayed here and it was very peaceful, but it was also pretty empty. Some of the sides are very close together, but if you look around, you can get one that has a little bit more privacy. Clean bathrooms, clean showers. Hikes from the site. Swimming as well!!
Traveler
Great work! This was very helpful and clear. Solar
GuideWe had a great time here we stayed for a whole week to get the extra savings and we loved every day of it. There was something new every day. The waterfalls were amazing. The rec center had tons of activities and sports for the kids to do. They had a really cool playground, which was like a rope course.
GuideSite is sloped, shaded and right next to the bathrooms and water spigot. ATT coverage is decent. Other side of the bathrooms is access to the gorge trails. Pets are not allowed on the gorge trail itself but the rim and other trails are fine.
Traveler
Thanks for this wonderful article. It was very enlightening and useful. Solar
Traveler
Great insights! Thanks for providing such detailed and helpful information. Solar
Traveler
Your blog always inspires me. Thanks for the amazing content. Solar
ScoutAs for RV camping, this place is outdated. Sites are on top of one another, but some have good shade. Ours, site 6 didn't. Really can't walk to beach area or store. Cheap enough at $25. T-storms knocked out power overnight.
ScoutAn ideal place to try difficult challenges geometry dash meltdown that I have never tried before.
GuideWe stayed here for Memorial Day Weekend and really enjoyed Sned Acres. The Grounds are well taken care of (although some areas around the playgrounds and pool could have been weed whacked better) there is a lot of grass and wide open areas for playing games, walking your dogs and you can let your dogs drag their leashes so they have free roam and feel like they are running free. The large pond is nice, there were a lot of campers fishing. The general store is well stocked and the family running the campground and store are very friendly. There is a nice pool for the kids. The only thing that would make Sned better is a little more spacing between the sites, they are close (we were in F130) to where if you open your window shades in your camper your neighbors are 5-10 feet away from you. Would definitely stay again if in the area.
Ranger
This was our families first SoLo trip with our camper. It had alot of things to do indoor/ outdoor pool, pirate ship, slide, big pillow, waterside, golf and rock wall. The campground and showers were clean. There were some things that didn't work like the army truck ride, zipline, and playground. The biggest downfall was being near the dump station and something going on with this makeshift site next to us where around our area smelled of sewer fumes all the time we went out for dinner one night because my 3 yr old was gaging. However the area was absolutely gorgeous we hiked so many waterfalls, went and rented a boat for the day to check out the lake, and drive to the next lake to check out the park.
RangerThis is a big park with a pretty nice campgrouns. The sites aren't huge, but it's nicely laid out. There seems to be a lot to do for the whole family here without leaving the campground. There's a bathroom in every section that seems to be in need of updating, but functional. The playground is huge and there's lots of room for riding your bike around. The rest of the park is huge with a ton of trails and lots to see. Only downside is that the park is so big you really need to drive around to see everything.
Scout
A great place to visit, I really like this place. I often lie here admiring the scenery and playing suika game. I like everything that is peaceful and slow
TravelerOwners on site, very friendly, and accommodating. Water and 30a, dump station. Some larger sites to accommodate up to 40’ rigs. Reasonable width sites.
LegendKOA Canandaigua/Rochester NY:
(Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good
(70 yr olds in 17’ trailer). I rate based on desire for at least a moderate wilderness type experience w at least some camp site privacy.
Overall Rating: for a KOA :4 - see map for nicest sites.
Price 2023: $61 for a 30 amp site
Usage during visit: Light - off season
Site Privacy: Our site : None
Site Spacing: Close
Site surface: Gravel and grass
Reservations: They take reservations- Recommend the KOA app
Campground Noise: Quiet during our stay.
Road Noise: There will some noise at sites near Town Line Rd. Traffic is minimal
Through Traffic in campground: None
Electric Hookup: Yes
Sewer Hookup: Some sites.
Dump Station: Yes
Potable Water Available: At the site.
Bathroom/ Showers: Individual shower/toilet rooms. VERY clean.
Pull Throughs: Yes
Cell Service (AT&T): 2 bars.
Setting: Parklike - typical KOA
Weather: Highs are pin the low 50s during our stay
Bugs: None this time of year.
Host: Yes. Johnny on the spot.
Rig size: Large rigs
Sites: See the map in photos . Best sites are circled with green marker. Request a perimeter site or lake side if you want one is my suggestion. Otherwise you get what they give you.
TravelerThe waterfalls and gorge had several overlooks to enjoy if you are not able to hike. The campground is on the opposite end of the park from the falls, so it is a long and pretty drive. We enjoyed hiking along the falls trails. The museum had some interesting history, although we were left wondering how Letchwork made his original money. There were lots of lovely places for picnics.
Suzeas Gluten Free bakery is advertised on the map and located in Mount Morris. The owner is a character, and we loved all the baked goods we purchased there. It was another bonus for us.
ScoutThe park itself is located in a great region, close to many other top attractions of the Finger Lakes region. There are few nice hiking trails right from the park, which our whole family enjoyed.
We camped as a small group in two sites across from each other. Where we were, the sites were close to the road, and the road noise was distracting. The sites were also very close to each other and rather shallow, thereby limiting privacy. Upper sites, closer to the falls looked a lot nicer, deeper, and quieter, but we had no choice since it was booked with short notice. Not much to say about park facilities. Basic restroom and shower facilities, but the ability to do dishes in the designated sink in the bathroom was a plus. Bathroom facilities were old and not well maintained. We barely saw any real cleaning either. So, that was a bummer.
All in all, if you are eager to get out and camp, and have no better choice, I would say you will be OK. Otherwise, there are nicer options around.
GuideVery convenient to Watkins Glenn State Park and the Speedway. Restrooms are modern clean and adequate. WiFi was good on a fall weekend with park pretty full. Some sites are concrete, ours was gravel and not particularly level. Good cable TV.
Ranger——REASONS I STAYED HERE——
The see Watkins Glen, of course! And go paddleboarding nearby.
—————BASIC FAQ—————
[Tent camping with a Subie]
Dump station? - Yes
Water fill or hookup? - Water fill at dump station but no water hookups. Water spigots are scattered throughout each loop.
Electricity? - Yes, some loops have it but not mine
Clean site? - Yes
Clean bathroom? - Yes
Flush toilet? - Yes
Showers? - Yes
Laundry? - No
Dish washing sink? - Yes, in the bathroom
—————PROS—————
→ The access to Watkins Glen! My site was in Loop D (Onondaga Village) which has a direct hiking trail to the trail along Watkins Glen! I highly recommend going early to beat the crowds. It’s peaceful and easier to enjoy and take photos.
→ Proximity to Seneca Lake! We went paddleboarding. We put in at a boat launch at the very southeastern corner of the lake near Seneca Lake Kayak. You can paddle down to Hector Falls and see it from the water.
→ You can drive to the many waterfalls nearby. I recommend Havana Glen Park for a short hike to the waterfall. Also, drive to Chequaga Falls.
—————TIP—————
→ There’s a power outlet in the bathroom. It was very common for people to charge phones while showering. Or leaving a battery in there to charge.
—————OVERALL—————
5-stars - Speaking for Loop D, of course. Clean site, clean bathroom with hot water, access to Watkins Glen, no issues while staying there.
—————INTERNET—————
Verizon via iPhone 12: 20 mbps down and 0.03 mbps up with 74 ms ping.
RangerWe stayed at site 184 which was great. The trail to get down to the Gorge Trail was just a few sites away. Bath house was clean but out dated. No camp store, but fire wood & ice were available at check in station. Pick a site on the outside of a loop and you’ll be good.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Phelps, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Phelps, NY is Watkins Glen State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 86 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Phelps, NY?
TheDyrt.com has all 30 glamping camping locations near Phelps, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
