Cabin camping near Pompey, New York offers access to several regional state parks situated in central New York's hilly terrain. Most cabins are located within a 35-mile radius of Pompey, positioned in the Finger Lakes region where elevations range from 1,000 to 2,000 feet. The camping season typically runs May through October with average summer temperatures of 70-80°F during the day and 50-60°F at night.
What to do
Swimming at natural pools: Fillmore Glen State Park features a unique natural swimming pool with lifeguard supervision. "Swimming is only allowed in certain parts and there are some pretty steep drop offs so watch the kids close," notes one visitor to Fillmore Glen State Park.
Kayaking on glacial lakes: Green Lakes State Park offers boat rentals for exploring its distinctive green-blue waters. "You can rent a kayak and enjoy the beautiful lake. There are miles of trails to explore," explains a camper at Green Lakes State Park.
Hiking waterfall trails: Multiple state parks feature gorge and waterfall hikes within walking distance of cabin areas. "The fall itself is amazing and the location is unbeatable since you're camping in the State Park," writes a visitor about Taughannock Falls State Park.
Winter activities: Some cabin locations remain open for cold-weather recreation. "The winter the camp ground is open for hiking, x country skiing and smobiling," mentions a reviewer about seasonal options at Fillmore Glen State Park.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Bowman Lake State Park offers secluded cabin sites. "It was very secluded and in the woods, right next to the lake as well. I enjoyed how spread out this campground is compared to most," explains a visitor to Bowman Lake State Park.
Lake access: Many cabin locations feature direct water access. "We stayed at site 11. As you can see sites are spacious and this one was right on the lake's edge," notes a camper at Verona Beach State Park.
Clean facilities: State park cabin areas maintain well-kept washrooms. "Bathrooms are very clean and close to all campsites. Kids loved the park and swimming in the waterfall beach," reports a visitor about Fillmore Glen State Park.
Proximity to towns: Several cabin locations provide convenient access to nearby communities. "I enjoy this park so much! Really love that it is a park in the middle of little towns. Close to grocery, great walks and fun lake to swim in," mentions a Green Lakes visitor.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Summer cabin bookings fill quickly, especially for July and August weekends. "Fills up during August when the State Fair is in Syracuse (same is true for every campsite in this area)," advises a camper at Green Lakes State Park.
Electric hookups: Most cabin areas provide electrical service, though water connections vary. "There are many sites with electric available at every site. There are some sites with full hook-up available," explains a visitor to Green Lakes State Park.
Weather considerations: Spring conditions can impact cabin camping experiences. "Due to lots of rain this year I can see where it might get crowded in the fields but there are a couple nice loops," notes a visitor to Fillmore Glen State Park.
Noise factors: Some cabin areas experience higher noise levels from nearby activities. "We camped at Oneida Shores Park in a Tent. Great Views from Tent Sites... It's a loud and busy place certain times of the year due to a raceway located nearby and fishing events as well," reports a visitor to Oneida Shores.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated play areas near cabin colonies. "The beach area is wide and shallow in most areas. In close proximity to the store and snack shop (ICE CREAM)," notes a visitor about Green Lakes State Park.
Swimming safety: Different parks have varying water access conditions. "Verona Beach State Park Campground sits on the edge of Lake Oneida with a nice camper's beach and trail on the lake front," explains a visitor about waterfront facilities.
Interactive activities: Some parks provide educational programming. "The hiking includes an easy 3.1 mile loop with much shade around two glacier formed turquoise lakes (you need to see them in person to appreciate)," describes a Green Lakes visitor.
Bathroom proximity: Consider cabin location relative to restroom facilities. "Depending where your camp site is it's a bit of a walk to it," advises a Bowman Lake State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some cabin and RV areas require adjustment. "We had a back in site with a fire pit, picnic table, and no hook ups. It was gravel and not super level, but we made it work," notes a visitor to Bowman Lake State Park.
Hookup configurations: Verify utility placement when booking. "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords," advises a visitor to Taughannock Falls State Park.
Supply stations: Several cabin areas maintain on-site supply shops. "Wood was for sale by camp host at 50 cents a piece," mentions a Verona Beach State Park visitor about firewood availability.
Site selection: Consider privacy levels when choosing cabin locations. "Sites in the middle section of the campground don't really have designated boundaries, while those around the edges are more traditionally divided," explains a Fillmore Glen visitor.