Savona, New York sits at an elevation of 1,063 feet in the southern Finger Lakes region, where the climate features warm summers and cold winters with moderate rainfall year-round. The terrain combines rolling hills with forests of maple, oak, and pine, creating natural buffers between many camping areas. Most campgrounds remain open from May through October, with primitive sites available in some locations during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Hiking at Watkins Glen State Park: Located 20 minutes from Savona, the park offers 19 waterfalls along the famous Gorge Trail. "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful. The gorge trail is a MUST," notes Laura L. from Watkins Glen State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Sugar Hill Recreation Area provides easy access to fishing spots within the state forest. "We stayed at Sugar Hill for about 10 days, arriving right after Memorial Day weekend. The campground offers a variety of great options for various rig sizes, accommodating different needs comfortably," shares Paulina B. from Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping.
Wine tasting tours: The Finger Lakes wine region surrounds Savona, with dozens of wineries within 30 minutes. "Nearby wineries and many wine drinkers camp here along with enjoying beautiful finger Lakes," explains Rob M., who stayed at Watkins Glen / Corning KOA.
Horseback riding trails: The Sugar Hill Forest offers equestrian-friendly paths that connect directly to some campgrounds. "Ranger is super friendly. Our area was slightly isolated but a trail was next to it so horseback riders just appear occasionally to bright your day," mentions Darrell K. about their experience at Sugar Hill.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: The region offers larger sites than typical state park campgrounds. "Large grassy sites with privacy between the sites. Most sites have a good level gravel pad to park on," writes Joseph B. about Keuka Lake State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently note the well-maintained bathrooms at campgrounds near Savona. "Friendly staff, good patrols at night to keep people from being too noisy, tent sites are nice and shaded. Some of the shower houses are better than others," reports Lori F. who stayed at Watkins Glen State Park.
Water filtration: Several reviewers mention the need for water filters at certain campgrounds. "Make sure you use a water filter, there was a lot of sediment in the water when we were there. See pictures of 4 days on a new cartridge," advises Michael H. from Ferenbaugh Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The forested settings provide opportunities to spot deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. "The campground offers a variety of great options for various rig sizes, accommodating different needs comfortably. During our stay, the campsite never even got near half full, providing a peaceful and uncrowded experience," shares Paulina B.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds around Savona operate from May through October, with limited services in shoulder seasons. "The owners are very nice and helpful. It is mostly occupied by regulars but the rental sites are close to the very clean bathrooms and showers. The swimming pool is a nice bonus!" notes Marc J. from Camp Bell Campground.
Cell reception limitations: Several campgrounds have spotty connectivity. "WiFi and phone service are pretty limited, typically ranging between 1-2 bars," warns Paulina B. about Sugar Hill Recreation Area.
Weather considerations: The Finger Lakes region can experience significant temperature swings, even in summer. "We had a couple of dry days then some rain. Still was a great teaching/learning experience," shares Michael H. about their stay at Ferenbaugh.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during peak season (July-August), especially on weekends. "I stay here usually once or twice a year and spend my weekends hiking the various gorge trails nearby. Tent camping is nice here. The sites are good sized, they offer cabins as well," explains Deb S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature recently updated play areas. "There is a huge new playground for the kids and lots of area to walk around the loops if you don't want to hike the gorge trail," mentions Lindsay C. about Watkins Glen State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer swimming facilities during summer months. "This campground is close to home, easily accessible, close to grocery stores and has a beautiful beach and playground for kids," says Alyssa C. about Keuka Lake State Park.
Pet-friendly activities: For families camping with dogs, several areas provide designated pet spaces. "Dogs are allowed but they are not allowed on the gorge trail. I'm ok with this I just wish I had know before we got there," notes Lindsay C., highlighting an important consideration for pet owners.
Campground-organized activities: Some locations run regular family events during peak season. "Super kind people who work there. Great amenities. Climbing wall, pool, putt putt, giant bouncy thing. Basketball hoop, playground," writes Amy H. about the amenities at Watkins Glen / Corning KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site width considerations: RV campers should check site dimensions before booking. "Owners on site, very friendly, and accommodating. Water and 30a, dump station. Some larger sites to accommodate up to 40' rigs. Reasonable width sites," advises Paul B. from Camp Elmbois.
Access road challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow entrance roads with tight turns. "The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," cautions Laura L. about Watkins Glen.
Hook-up availability: Full-service sites with 50-amp service are limited in the region. "I am a full timer and have been staying here on/off for past two months. They offer 30/50 amp sites, also have full hook ups and some primitive sites," explains Gary V. about Ferenbaugh Campground.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with electric hookups offer sewer connections. "Large grassy sites with privacy between the sites. Most sites have a good level gravel pad to park on. We stayed in the non-electric loop with a small travel trailer, but there are electric sites available," notes Joseph B.