The Finger Lakes region surrounding Savannah, New York sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate featuring four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity levels from June through August. Most campgrounds in this region operate from mid-April through mid-October, with the heaviest bookings occurring on holiday weekends and during peak foliage season in late September.
What to do
Lake activities at Cayuga Lake State Park: Visitors can enjoy swimming in designated areas, fishing for bass and perch, or renting kayaks during summer months. "Nice modern-esque camp site with great views of the lake. They have cabins but we tent camped. On site they have swimming, boat launch, and (I think) a playground. Lots of other places to hike in the area too," notes Harry H. from Cayuga Lake State Park Campground.
Hiking the Gorge Trail: Located approximately 40 miles from Savannah, the trail features 19 waterfalls with moderate difficulty. "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful. The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!" recommends Laura L. who stayed at Watkins Glen State Park.
Military history exploration: Visit the military museum at Sampson State Park to see authentic items from World War II era naval training. "It was a Naval training base during WWll. About 45 minutes from Rochester and about hr and half from Syracuse. It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era," describes Brian O. who camped at Sampson State Park.
Fishing in calm waters: Many campgrounds in the area offer fishing ponds that are more accessible than the larger lakes. "There is a nice pool for the kids. The large pond is nice, there were a lot of campers fishing," notes David M. who visited Sned Acres Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower facilities receive consistent praise across multiple campgrounds. "The campground is well maintained and has clean restrooms. There are many options for different sites. They offer themed weekends and have activities for kids," explains Amy T. about Junius Ponds.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer larger sites with reasonable privacy. "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," shares Colleen M. from Cayuga Lake State Park.
Proximity to wineries: The location provides easy access to wine trails throughout the Finger Lakes. "There are boating ramps and nice places to fish off a wall, plus a nice public beach fully staffed with life guards. A store and rec center is located at entrance area of camp ground as well as a big playground for the children," mentions Brian O. about the amenities at Sampson State Park Campground.
Seasonal programming: Many campgrounds offer organized activities. "They do events for kids every weekend. If you camp 6 nights in one season you get a night free!" points out Sara H. who frequently stays at Lake Bluff RV Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season (July-August). "Most of the sites are for seasonal guests so it can be difficult to get a reservation," warns Kimberlee P. about Junius Ponds.
Hook-up configurations: Some campgrounds have shared electric boxes which may require longer cords. "Electric service boxes are shared in-between sites. This could pose an issue if your power cord is not long enough," notes Amanda K. about Lake Bluff RV Park.
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds in the area operate from mid-April through mid-October. "April 15 to October 15" is the typical season for many campgrounds including Junius Ponds and Cheerful Valley.
Golf cart policies: Some campgrounds have specific rules about personal vehicles. "A would be beautiful campground is over run with seasonal campers and their golf carts. These fine folks never stop driving and take the time to walk and enjoy the the beauty of their surroundings," observes Ryan D. about his stay at Junius Ponds.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds for multiple ages: Many campgrounds feature play areas for different age groups. "Great place for kids, so many activities!" reports Keri who visited Canandaigua-Rochester KOA, which offers "ziplines with treetop walk and a bounce."
Swimming options: Both lake and pool swimming are available depending on the campground. "The beach area is wide and shallow in most areas, in close proximity to the store and snack shop (ICE CREAM)," shares Sheri S. about Green Lakes State Park.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Several campgrounds offer stocked ponds for easier success. "This KOA has all that you need for a relaxing family trip. It is close to the finger lakes, is clean, has kid activities and a pond where the fish are easy to catch with hotdogs!" advises Amy T.
Bike-friendly camping loops: Look for paved roads within campgrounds for safer cycling. "Paved loops - good for bikes and scooters," points out Amanda K. about Sampson State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully based on seasonal considerations. "Be weary that some of the camp sites are closer to playgrounds than they appear on the map," advises Jeremy T. from Cheerful Valley Campground, adding that it "does rain up here which affects the fire wood."
Water fill logistics: Be prepared for potential wait times at water stations. "There is only one source for water fill up. This could end up being a very very long wait if you arrive at the same time as other campers," warns Amanda K.
Road width challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow access roads. "The roads are narrow and hilly, but we pull a 36' 5th wheel (mid-profile) and we had no issues with branches," shares Kristine B. about her stay at Junius Ponds.
Seasonal site availability: For those considering longer stays, prepare for limited options. "The only disappointment was that they have a LONG wait for seasonal sites with almost no turnover year to year," explains Julie S. about Sned Acres.
