Tent camping options near Stanley, New York provide access to the scenic Finger Lakes landscape across four seasons. The region sits at approximately 700 feet above sea level with moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak camping months. Winter camping is available at select locations, with temperatures often dropping below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Water recreation on Otisco Lake: Cross Lake Park Campgrounds offers convenient lake access for kayaking and swimming. A camper shared, "We kayaked in the lake it was a lot of fun."
Hiking nearby trails: The surrounding area features numerous hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels. At Holiday Hill Campground, campers can access popular local trails. A recent visitor noted, "Clean bathrooms and Verizon reception is consistent at 3 bars. There is a lot to do for kids & teens, but that makes it loud with kids running through your site."
Exploring the Erie Canal: Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort provides access to the historic Erie Canal with opportunities for cycling along the canal path. A guest mentioned, "Kayak launches and boat marina nearby. The speed limit is 5 MPH and they mean it."
What campers like
Quiet natural settings: Many campers appreciate the peaceful environment at several campgrounds. At Empire Haven Nudist Park, a visitor remarked, "The campground is as quiet and peaceful as anyone would like, but the community enables campers the freedom to socialize and share meals whenever you want."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained restrooms and common areas rank high on camper satisfaction. One camper at Holiday Hill Campground mentioned, "The campground has clean bathrooms and Verizon reception is consistent at 3 bars."
Friendly management: Campground hosts receive positive feedback for their hospitality. A camper at Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort shared, "Barb and Red are fantastic hosts. They are accommodating and entertaining. Live music on Friday Night (weather permitting) and plenty of activities for the family on the weekends."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the Stanley area operate from spring through fall, typically May through October. Holiday Hill Campground specifically runs from "May 1 to October 14."
Varying amenity levels: Facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. Some offer full hookups while others provide more primitive experiences. The Jonestead offers cold weather camping with basic amenities including drinking water, toilets, and trash service but no showers or hookups.
Reservation requirements: Several campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak summer months. The PineApple Farm accepts reservations for its tent sites and provides drinking water, showers, and toilet facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Cross Lake Park Campgrounds features facilities specifically for children. A visitor mentioned, "Access to water and swimming. Nice playgrounds."
Speed restrictions for safety: Some campgrounds strictly enforce low speed limits to protect playing children. At Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, a camper noted, "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 but close to the store."
Site selection for quiet: For families seeking more peaceful camping, consider location within the campground. One camper advised, "If that bothers you, plan ahead to get a site away from the main area."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring additional work to level RVs. At Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort, an RVer shared, "Almost all of the sites are not even close to level. Not a big issue with a fifth wheel but a real hassle with a motorcoach. We changed sites three times and finally resigned ourselves to not being leveled."
Limited full hookup availability: RVers note that sites with complete hookups may be occupied by seasonal campers. One visitor observed, "There seemed to be a lot of regulars and seasonal sites here, which meant that short term full hook up sites were harder to get."
Backing into sites: Some campgrounds have tight spaces requiring maneuvering skills. A camper with a travel trailer commented, "We had to maneuver a lot to back our 25' trailer into a tight spot, but sites are clean and spacious side to side."
