Located at an elevation of 797 feet, Stanley, New York sits in a transitional zone between the eastern edges of the Finger Lakes and the rolling farmland that characterizes Ontario County. The area receives approximately 35 inches of precipitation annually, with summer highs averaging in the low 80s and winter lows frequently dipping below freezing. Camping options near Stanley vary from densely wooded sites at state parks to open meadow settings at private campgrounds, with most facilities offering electric hookups for those seeking more comfortable accommodations.
What to do
Hiking the gorge trails: At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, the famous Gorge Trail featuring 19 waterfalls is a must-visit attraction. "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful. The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. The gorge trail is a MUST," notes Laura L. The park offers additional trails for varied skill levels, including the Rim Trail that provides elevated views of the gorge.
Military history exploration: Sampson State Park Campground features a Naval museum with artifacts from its past as a WWII training base. "It has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era," explains Brian O. The park maintains several historical structures and interpretive displays explaining the site's military significance.
Fishing opportunities: Ontario County Park provides shoreline fishing access and a stocked pond. "There are boating ramps and nice places to fish off a wall," reports one visitor, while another camper mentions the entertainment value of watching wildlife around the fishing areas. Most parks in the region require a New York state fishing license for anglers 16 and older.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Keuka Lake State Park Campground earns praise for its well-designed layout. "Large, woody sites. Stay on the outside perimeter of the loops or you might have foot traffic thru your site to shower/toilet houses & water taps," advises Rebecca E. Many campers specifically recommend requesting sites along the perimeter of camping loops for maximum privacy.
Clean bathroom facilities: Many campsites near Stanley maintain exceptional bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms/showers facility in our loop was modern and kept very clean," notes Helen H. about Keuka Lake State Park. Sites vary in their bathroom amenities, with some offering dish washing stations and family-friendly facilities including changing tables.
Lake access: Cayuga Lake State Park Campground provides water recreation opportunities with direct lake access. "Kayaking in Cayuga Lake was not lacking some beautiful views," shares Laura Nicole A. Most lakefront parks offer boat launches, swimming areas, and rental equipment, though availability varies seasonally.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Campgrounds fill quickly during summer months and holiday weekends. "Most sites have electric. Potable water fill station and dump tanks at entrance/exit," reports Stephanie C. about Sampson State Park. Reservations can typically be made up to nine months in advance through the New York State Parks reservation system or directly with private campgrounds.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate from April or May through mid-October, with specific opening dates varying by location. Canandaigua-Rochester KOA has a slightly extended season, operating "from Apr 1 to Oct 31," providing options for early spring and late fall campers.
Site variations: Campground layouts differ significantly across the region. "The sites are large and many have electric. Mature trees surround campsites and separate the loops from each other," explains Helen H. about Keuka Lake. Sites with electricity typically cost $5-15 more per night than non-electric sites at state parks.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Flint Creek Campgrounds offers unique play equipment for children. "The playground equipment is outdated but the kids loved the tires and zip line," reports Sparks N. Many campgrounds feature multiple play areas dispersed throughout the property, allowing children to make friends with neighboring campers.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds provide swimming facilities, though availability varies seasonally. "Great little beach and swimming area; water was very clean," notes a Sampson State Park visitor. Most park swimming areas are open from late June through Labor Day and staffed with lifeguards during peak hours.
Educational opportunities: Campgrounds in the region often incorporate educational components. "Bring bicycles and definitely go on both visual and audio tours," suggests Victoria O. about Sampson State Park. Many parks offer junior ranger programs, nature walks, and environmental education activities on summer weekends.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup considerations: At Sampson State Park, RVers should note the shared electric service boxes. "Electric service boxes are shared in-between sites. This could pose an issue if your power cord is not long enough," warns Amanda K. Bringing extension cords and adapters is recommended as many older campgrounds have limited electrical infrastructure.
Water access planning: Multiple RVers mentioned water fill station limitations at certain campgrounds. "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," notes a Sampson State Park visitor. Most campgrounds limit water hookups to designated fill stations rather than at individual sites.
Site leveling requirements: Some campgrounds require significant leveling equipment. "Make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level," advises Jonathan G. about Ontario County Park. Most state park campgrounds were developed decades ago before larger RVs became common, resulting in site design challenges for modern equipment.
