Primitive tent camping near Skaneateles, New York offers access to the rolling hills and hardwood forests of central New York state, with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during the day. Most campgrounds in the region maintain a 14-day maximum stay policy and require campers to pack out all trash.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Long Pond Campground, visitors can find multiple fishing spots including "a regular boat launch with parking lot and dock, a carry-in kayak access near campsite 6, and a handicapped accessible fishing pier near campsite 1," as noted by Janet R. The pond is "very scenic and very productive for fishermen."
Water recreation: Cross Lake Park Campgrounds provides water access for various activities. One visitor shared, "Fun place. Access to water and swimming. Nice playgrounds. We kayaked in the lake it was a lot of fun," according to Sara H.
Hiking trail networks: Multiple primitive campgrounds connect to regional trail systems. At Nature Lover's Paradise, campers get "access to a vast network of trails in upstate New York" with Jake C. adding it's an "awesome spot" particularly for "hikers and runners."
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Long Pond Campground offers spacious sites under forest canopy. Kevin C. described the campsites as "large and level spots all located beneath the tree canopy. Sites seemed disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy."
Pond access: The Spruce Pond area receives positive reviews for its proximity to water. Neil L. noted, "Lots of fishermen frequent the pond," adding that "the first few campsites are the best" while highlighting that the "great trees for hammock camping" enhance the experience.
Accessible fishing options: Stoneys Pineville Campground gets high marks from anglers. Vito M. called it a "great site for fishing" with "friendly hosts and great place on the river." Eric F. added, "We have been out three consecutively for salmon fishing and I have had a great time."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Toilet access differs between sites. Kevin C. mentioned Long Pond has "no water or garbage services" with just one portable toilet, while Rose S. noted of Spruce Pond, "Port-a-potty was available."
Wildlife activity: Spruce Pond Camping Area has abundant wildlife, particularly at night. Rose S. reported "loud frogs" noting, "the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night."
Site selection strategy: Arriving early improves chances of securing preferred spots. Neil L. advised about Spruce Pond, "The first few campsites are the best, the further down you go the worse the sites get for tent set up. Smaller tents would be best here."
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: When tent camping with children near Skaneateles, choose sites with play areas. Cross Lake Park Campgrounds offers "nice playgrounds" alongside water activities, making it suitable for families with varied interests.
Kid-friendly driving rules: Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort enforces slow driving for child safety. Rachel T. explained, "The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it.... Kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area and the pool far enough from the campsites."
Weekend activities: Some campgrounds offer scheduled events. Rachel T. noted that Red's Twilight provides "plenty of activities for the family on the weekends" and "live music on Friday Night (weather permitting)."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require equipment for leveling. At Red's Twilight, Donna C. found "almost all of the sites are not even close to level," adding it's "not a big issue with a fifth wheel but a real hassle with a motorcoach."
Small trailer accessibility: Morgan Hill Forest—Onondaga Trailhead campground accommodates compact RVs. Janet R. described "two lovely developed campsites with parking spot right next to a cement pad with picnic tables and fire pits" that are "roomy wooded campsites."
Limited hookups: Most primitive sites near Skaneateles lack RV amenities. Kevin C. noted Long Pond sites are "ideal for tents or very small campers or trailers" with "no water or garbage services," adding "the trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
