Pompey, New York offers rustic cabin and yurt camping options within a short drive of Syracuse. Located in Onondaga County at approximately 1,400 feet elevation, the area experiences distinct seasonal changes with vibrant fall foliage and moderate summer temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s. Camping sites throughout the region typically open from late April through mid-October.
What to do
Explore glacial lakes: Green Lakes State Park Campground features unique glacial lakes with distinctive blue-green water. "The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands. We visit this park very frequently to rent a boat or to hike the trails," notes Kenneth S. from Green Lakes State Park Campground.
Swim at natural pool areas: Robert H. Treman State Park offers a natural swimming area with diving board. "You can swim in the waterfall area here. Need I say more? Actually, it can be VERY busy in the summer time in the swimming area, making it difficult to find your own 'space,'" shares Matt G. from Robert H. Treman State Park Campground.
Kayak on calm waters: Bowman Lake provides serene paddling opportunities away from motorized traffic. "We brought our bikes and explored the many hiking and riding trails on the premises. We loved the swimming beach soaking up the sun and cool refreshing water. As fisherman we loved that the rangers told us that the lake was regularly stocked with trout and other game fish," reports Brian O. from Bowman Lake State Park.
What campers like
Privacy in wooded sites: Whispering Woods Campground offers secluded yurt camping near Pompey with distinctive circular accommodations. "We camped there a few times, very people friendly place!" according to Arnie T. from Whispering Woods Campground.
Clean facilities: Delta Lake State Park maintains well-kept shower and bathroom areas. "There were bathrooms in the middle of our loop which was great and easy to walk to and it was very clean. There is a water full station when you enter but there are also a couple water spigots in our loop," mentions Tris W. from Delta Lake State Park Campground.
Variety of activities: Taughannock Falls provides multiple recreation options within walking distance. "The campground is very walkable to the swimming area, which goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of. The hiking to the waterfall is very manageable. There is also at least 2 other state parks within 30 minutes to visit if you have time," shares Barbara S. from Taughannock Falls.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Cayuga Lake State Park requires advance booking during peak season. "We stayed in the 800 loop along the tree line. Sites were very spacious! Great camping location with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy or just sit and enjoy the peace," notes Colleen M. from Cayuga Lake State Park Campground.
Shower facilities: Some parks require quarters for showers. "We had to pay with quarters to shower not a problem but inconvenient. Site was very close to water and boat launch and that was great," shares Tate T. from Ta-Ga-Soke Campgrounds.
Weather considerations: The area can experience significant rainfall, especially in spring and fall. "Our entire campsite was flooded so we just set up our tent on my brothers site with them. Ended up being wonderful and the lake was beautiful," mentions Kelly J. about her experience at Bowman Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Green Lakes offers multiple play areas for children. "This place is great for all ages," says Jennifer I. from Green Lakes State Park Campground.
Swimming safety: Many parks employ lifeguards during summer months. "The beautiful beach is well attended with life guards on duty keeping you safe but still allowing much fun on the very clean white sand," notes Brian O. about Delta Lake State Park.
Centrally located yurts: Yurt camping near Pompey provides comfort for families with small children. "Good central location for exploring the Finger Lakes, Watkins Glen, Seneca Falls, Cornell and Ithaca," says one camper at Robert H. Treman State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most state parks offer limited electric-only sites. "There are many sites with electric available at every site. There are some sites with full hook-up available and also specific areas that allow pets," explains Cindy H. about Green Lakes State Park.
Site leveling challenges: Some parks have uneven terrain. "The sites are good, level, and the campsite is pretty but as clean as the bathrooms are, the showers still suck. I'll never understand why parks use the misting shower heads," reports Chelsea B. from Green Lakes State Park.
Dump station access: Most area campgrounds provide central dump stations rather than full hookup sites. "Our site was sufficiently private and tucked away, but water/bathrooms/showers were close enough. Very clean facilities!" says Gerald L. from Bowman Lake State Park.
