Tent camping options around Phelps, New York extend beyond established campgrounds to include riverside sites and family-friendly destinations within a 30-mile radius. The area sits in the northern Finger Lakes region at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,000 feet, creating varied camping environments from lakeshores to forested hills. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, limiting most camping operations to the warmer months.
What to do
Kayaking on Cross Lake: Cross Lake Park Campgrounds provides direct water access for paddlers. "Fun place. Access to water and swimming. Nice playgrounds. We kayaked in the lake it was a lot of fun," notes camper Sara H.
Explore hiking trails: The region surrounding Holiday Hill Campground offers extensive trail systems. "Lots of trails, and Hemlock and Canadice Lake so close by. Mostly known for Reynolds GUlly, and Johnson Hill trails! Tons to do in the area but town isn't too far," explains Peter.
Canal-side activities: Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort provides access to the historic Erie Canal. "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 and the pool," mentions Rachel T.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained grounds. "The campground has clean bathrooms and Verizon reception is consistent at 3 bars," notes Terry F. about Holiday Hill Campground.
Community atmosphere: Some campgrounds foster social connections. At Empire Haven Nudist Park, "The campground is as quiet and peaceful as anyone would like, but the community enables campers the freedom to socialize and share meals whenever you want to reach beyond the family who came with you," says Joseph S.
Recreational amenities: Swimming pools and playgrounds enhance the best tent camping near Phelps, New York. "The pool is nice and staff friendly. Clean bathrooms with activity and entertainment on site and near by," reports Amy T. about Red's Twilight on the Erie.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the region have limited operating seasons. Holiday Hill Campground specifically operates from "May 1 to October 14" according to their listing information.
Site leveling challenges: Not all sites are naturally level. At Red's Twilight, "Almost all of the sites are not even close to level. Not a big issue with a fifth wheel but a real hassle with a motorcoach. We changed sites three times and finally resigned ourselves to not being leveled," warns Donna C.
Campground transitions: Some properties may operate under multiple names. Holiday Hill is also known as "Tamarack Campground" according to Peter's review, which could cause confusion when searching for tent camping near Phelps, NY.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly speed rules: Look for campgrounds with strict speed limits. At Red's Twilight on the Erie, "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.
Site selection strategy: Position your campsite strategically. "There is a lot to do for kids & teens, but that makes it loud with kids running through your site. So if that bothers you, plan ahead to get a site away from the main area," advises Terry F.
Organized activities: Some campgrounds offer structured entertainment. Red's Twilight provides "plenty of activities for the family on the weekends" and even features "Live music on Friday Night (weather permitting)," according to Rachel T.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-hookup sites can be harder to secure at popular campgrounds. "There seemed to be a lot of regulars and seasonal sites here, which meant that short term full hook up sites were harder to get," mentions Terry F. about Holiday Hill.
Backing challenges: Some sites require maneuvering skills. Terry F. notes, "We had to maneuver a lot to back our 25' trailer into a tight spot, but sites are clean and spacious side to side."
Alternative accommodations: For those seeking tent camping alternatives near Phelps, NY, The PineApple Farm offers cabin and glamping options alongside traditional tent sites, with amenities including drinking water, showers, and toilet facilities.
