Glamping options near Skaneateles provide visitors with upscale accommodations in New York's Finger Lakes region, where elevations range from 380 to 2,000 feet across rolling hills and deep lake valleys. The typical camping season runs from April through October, with average summer temperatures between 70-85°F during peak months. Several state parks and private campgrounds offer cabins, glamping units, and yurts with various amenities depending on location and price point.
What to do
Swimming in natural settings: Cayuga Lake State Park Campground offers a refreshing swimming area for cooling off during summer visits. "The swimming area was closed for the season by the time we arrived," one visitor noted about a different park, highlighting the importance of timing your visit during the swimming season if water activities are important.
Gorge trail hiking: The area features numerous gorge trails with varying difficulty levels. A camper at Watkins Glen State Park Campground advised, "The gorge trail is a MUST," while another mentioned, "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful... The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!"
Wine tasting tours: With dozens of wineries within driving distance of most campgrounds, wine tourism is popular. As one visitor to Taughannock Falls State Park mentioned, "The Seneca Lake Wine Trail runs right through this area and makes for a fun diversion to your hiking trip!" Nearby Sampson State Park also notes "Wineries" as a nearby attraction.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Many campers appreciate the lakefront locations. At Sned Acres Campground, visitors enjoy the natural setting, with one reviewer noting, "The campground is beautifully maintained with stunning views of Cayuga Lake. The staff was friendly, welcoming, and went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed."
Swimming in waterfall pools: Robert H. Treman State Park Campground features a unique swimming area at the base of a waterfall. "Beautiful waterfall swimming pool is very cold, but great on a hot day," observed one visitor. Another camper added, "You can swim in the waterfall area here. Need I say more?"
Historic attractions: Several campgrounds have historical significance. At Sampson State Park, a visitor noted, "It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era," referring to its history as a Naval training base during World War II. The park's museum provides educational value beyond natural attractions.
What you should know
Site privacy varies: The layout and proximity between sites can affect your camping experience. At Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, a camper observed, "There was little privacy between sites, but there were a few trees for shade," which is important to consider if seclusion is a priority.
Seasonal amenities: Many facilities only operate during peak season. "The campground pool doesn't open until the end of June," noted one camper about Watkins Glen. Similarly, at Robert H. Treman State Park, a visitor mentioned, "I'm bummed that we missed out on the waterfall and swimming area! The swimming area was closed for the season by the time we arrived."
Hook-up limitations: Electric and water connections can be challenging at some sites. At Robert H. Treman, a camper warned, "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers." Another mentioned, "Some sites have shared fresh water hookup between the sites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When booking sites with children, consider proximity to play areas. At Green Lakes State Park Campground, one visitor praised the "great playgrounds" and another mentioned there's a "great playground for kids that is perfect for play and swim." However, be aware that "some of the camp sites are closer to playgrounds than they appear on the map."
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer organized events for children. At Lake Bluff Campground, a visitor shared, "They do events for kids every weekend," and another mentioned, "Kids activities are great. Even with COVID they have stuff to keep them busy."
Swimming options: Look for parks with shallow swimming areas for younger children. One camper at Green Lakes State Park noted, "The beach area is wide and shallow in most areas," making it suitable for families with children who are learning to swim.
Tips from RVers
Dump station logistics: Multiple RVers mentioned limited dump facilities. At Sampson State Park Campground, one camper cautioned, "There is only 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," and "Only 2 dump stations" which can create bottlenecks during busy checkout times.
Power cord length: Electric hookups aren't always conveniently located. A Sampson State Park visitor advised, "Electric service boxes are shared in-between sites. This could pose an issue if your power cord is not long enough." At Taughannock Falls, campers should "check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords."
Site leveling: Many RV sites in the region require leveling equipment. At Robert H. Treman State Park, a reviewer warned that sites are "rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers." Bringing adequate leveling blocks or jacks is essential for comfortable stays at many of the region's campgrounds.
