Camping options near Phelps, New York include a mixture of family-oriented facilities and quiet RV retreats within the Finger Lakes region. The area's elevation ranges between 500-800 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain for campers and RVers exploring the region. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October due to the harsh winter conditions, with limited winter accommodations available.
What to do
Kayaking on canal paths: Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort provides access to nearby kayak launches and a boat marina. "Kayak launches and boat marina nearby. The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it.... Kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area," notes Rachel T.
Winery tours by foot: At Finger Lakes RV Resort, campers can access wineries without driving. "Two wineries are even walkable! Owners are clearly dedicated to excellence," shares Laura W. Another camper adds, "They are bookended by two wineries with walking paths from the campground."
Waterfall hiking excursions: Multiple state parks with waterfalls are accessible from campgrounds in the region. "We've been hiking the last few days- Watkins Glen State Park- Gorge Trail, Taughannock State Park- Gorge & North Ridge Trail over on Cayuga Lake," reports Steve A. from his stay at Finger Lakes RV Resort.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Lake Bluff RV Park maintains high standards for their bathhouses. "Clean bathhouse, definitely will stay again," mentions Jeff F. Another camper adds, "This is our favorite place! Not too far away clean! Friendly family owned!"
Evening entertainment: Weekend programming is appreciated by families staying at campgrounds. "Live music on Friday Night (weather permitting) and plenty of activities for the family on the weekends," says a visitor at Twilight on the Erie RV Resort.
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the room between RVs at newer facilities. One Finger Lakes RV Resort visitor noted, "Being a newer campground, the trees are small, but that did not take away from the experience. Easy maneuverability, great wifi and water pressure, along with level sites make it a great place to stay."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the Finger Lakes region, with some campgrounds having stronger signals than others. At Woonton Family Farms, visitors enjoy "a cozy and beautiful campsite with personal attention of the owner," but connectivity may be limited.
Site leveling challenges: Some RV sites near Phelps require leveling equipment. A visitor to Hejamada Camping Resort warns about maintenance issues: "It's a shame as the campground has so much potential but it appears that the owners have lost interest."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds close between late October and early April. "We stayed over Labor Day weekend" mentions one reviewer about their September visit, highlighting the prime camping season in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Lake Bluff RV Park offers regular programming for children. "They do events for kids every weekend. If you camp 6 nights in one season you get a night free!" shares Sara H. Another camper adds, "Near the play ground they have a nice game room pool, air hockey, video games."
Kid-friendly swimming options: Hejamada Camping Resort offers water recreation for families. "They have a lot of space and different types of sites. You get to enjoy nature. They have have a pub onsite," notes Amy T.
Nature exploration opportunities: Wooded camping areas allow for hiking and wildlife viewing. "Camping again in our favorite spot. We camped so much here we got a free nights stay!" explains a regular family visitor to Lake Bluff RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Parking pad conditions: RV sites near Phelps vary in levelness and surface materials. At Spruce Row Campground, one RVer noted, "The campground is primarily seasonal sites and the sites are very close together," which affects privacy for short-term visitors.
Utility connections: Most RV parks offer full hookups, but amperage varies by location. "We're using 30amps, but they also have 20 and 50amp service to each site. The water pressure is great," shares a visitor to Finger Lakes RV Resort.
Noise considerations: Some RV parks have more traffic than others. A Spruce Row visitor mentioned, "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."
