The Finger Lakes region surrounding Stanley, New York offers RV campers access to numerous lake-oriented campgrounds situated between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes. Most RV parks in the area sit at elevations between 700-900 feet above sea level, creating moderate temperature swings between day and night. Winter closures are standard for campgrounds in this region, with most operating from April through October due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Winery access by foot: At Finger Lakes RV Resort, campers can directly access multiple wineries without driving. "They are bookended by two wineries with walking paths from the campground," notes reviewer Craig F., who appreciates this convenience for wine tasting excursions.
Kayaking opportunities: The Erie Canal system provides water recreation options near Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort. "Kayak launches and boat marina nearby," mentions Rachel T., highlighting the accessibility of water activities from this Macedon location.
Waterfall hiking: Numerous state parks with waterfalls surround the RV parks in Stanley. "Easy drive to Watkins Glen, Lake Seneca, Ithaca, and the greater Finger Lakes region," reports Matt S. from his stay, noting the close proximity to popular hiking destinations with cascades.
What campers like
Spacious RV sites: Many campers highlight the generous spacing at newer facilities. "The campground sites are very large and spread out. Being a newer campground, the trees are small, but that did not take away from the experience," says Craig F. about his stay at Finger Lakes RV Resort.
Family-oriented activities: Scheduled weekend programming appeals to families with children at Lake Bluff RV Park. "They do events for kids every weekend. If you camp 6 nights in one season you get a night free!" mentions Sara H., appreciating the family-focused atmosphere.
On-site amenities: Entertainment options vary across parks. "Near the playground they have a nice game room pool, air hockey, video games. There is a change machine too," notes Sara H. about Lake Bluff's recreational facilities available for younger campers.
What you should know
Leveling challenges: Some older RV parks require equipment for leveling. At Hejamada Camping Resort, campers should bring leveling blocks. Similar issues exist at other locations, as noted in reviews where campers "changed sites three times and finally resigned ourselves to not being leveled."
Wi-Fi reliability: Connection quality varies significantly between newer and established parks. "WiFi was strong enough to do work calls," reports Laura W., noting the reliable connectivity that allowed for remote work during her stay.
Seasonal limitations: Most RV parks in Stanley operate within defined seasons. Spruce Row Campground runs "May 1 - Oct 12," while others like Lake Bluff extend slightly longer from "April 15 to October 31," allowing for early spring and late fall camping.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: When camping with children during summer months, choose parks with swimming options. "The pool is nice and staff friendly. Clean bathrooms with activity and entertainment on site and nearby," reports Amy T. about her experience at Spruce Row Campground.
Playground access: For families with young children, select campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "Kids on bikes and having a good time in the enormous play area and the pool far enough from the campsites but close to the store and watchful eye of the staff," mentions Rachel T. about the family-friendly layout.
COVID considerations: Some family amenities may remain affected by pandemic protocols. "Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, there is to be no interaction with other campers and a mask must be worn when walking around campground. Everything for the kids was closed due to social distancing," Eric B. reported during his stay.
Tips from RVers
Trash service: Daily garbage collection at site is available at select parks. "Daily trash and recycling pick-up from each site," mentions Matt S., highlighting this convenience factor that many RVers appreciate during longer stays.
Sun exposure: Newer RV parks often lack mature trees. "There's no shade from trees or otherwise. If you're visiting during the summer, be sure your air conditioning and awnings are working," advises Matt S. from his experience at Woonton Family Farms.
Site selection strategy: For quieter camping experiences, choose sites away from common areas. "We were on an end spot at an intersection inside the campground. Lots of golf carts after whizzing around and due to our campsite location they unfortunately were able to shine their lights on us every time they turned the corner after dark," warns Jodi about site positioning at busier campgrounds.
