Best Campgrounds near Syracuse, NY

Camping near Syracuse, New York, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Hiking and Waterfalls: Explore the stunning trails at Watkins Glen State Park Campground. One visitor said, "The access to Watkins Glen! My site was in Loop D which has a direct hiking trail to the trail along Watkins Glen!"
• Paddleboarding: Enjoy paddleboarding at nearby Seneca Lake. A camper mentioned, "We went paddleboarding. We put in at a boat launch at the very southeastern corner of the lake near Seneca Lake Kayak."
• Fishing and Swimming: At Keuka Lake State Park Campground, you can fish and swim in the clean, clear waters. One reviewer noted, "Lake was beautiful and fun for swimming with the kids."

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Green Lakes State Park Campground said, "You’ve hit the campground bathroom lottery here! Super modern and clean and hot, free showers!"
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer generous space between sites. A camper at Sampson State Park Campground mentioned, "Most sites are pretty spacious."
• Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA provide fun for all ages. One reviewer shared, "There is plenty to do for camping families and couples that enjoy a peaceful evening."

What you should know

• Limited Privacy: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Taughannock Falls State Park Campground noted, "The sites were also very close to each other and rather shallow, thereby limiting privacy."
• Basic Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. A camper at Robert H. Treman State Park Campground mentioned, "The dumping station is lacking but overall nice park."
• Seasonal Operations: Many campgrounds operate only during specific seasons. For example, Chenango Valley State Park Campground is open from May 13 to October 9.

Tips for camping with families

• Playgrounds and Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and organized activities. A camper at Sampson State Park Campground said, "Lots to do with a couple of playgrounds, guarded swimming area, kayak rentals."
• Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for sites that offer more space for kids to play. A visitor at Keuka Lake State Park Campground noted, "The sites are all super spacious and private."
• Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check if the campground has a store. One camper at Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA mentioned, "The restaurant across the street at the mines is delicious."

Tips from RVers

• Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the necessary hookups. A visitor at Watkins Glen State Park Campground mentioned, "Some loops have it but not mine."
• Bring Extension Cords: Some sites may have power poles that are far from your RV. A camper at Sampson State Park Campground advised, "The power poles are between sites and are often more than 20’ away."
• Plan for Dump Stations: Be aware of the location and availability of dump stations. A visitor at Taughannock Falls State Park Campground noted, "Only 2 dump stations."

Camping around Syracuse, NY, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors.