Tully, New York camping options span across the Finger Lakes region where the area's kettle lakes and drumlins were formed by glacial activity during the last ice age. The nearby state parks offer well-maintained trails through dense hardwood forests and alongside crystal-clear lakes with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,200 feet. Most camping areas close from late October through mid-April due to the region's snowy winters, with average winter temperatures dropping to 20°F.
What to do
Hiking the rim trails: Robert H. Treman State Park trails follow alongside dramatic gorges with stone staircases cut into the landscape. "Great hiking to waterfalls, beautiful campgrounds and a large playground. Some sites have shared fresh water hookup between the sites," notes Jennifer D. from Robert H. Treman State Park Campground.
Swimming in natural pools: Green Lakes State Park offers swimming in rare meromictic lakes with striking turquoise waters. "The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands. We visit this park very frequently to rent a boat or to hike the trails," explains Kenneth S. from Green Lakes State Park Campground.
Wine touring: The Finger Lakes region provides easy access to dozens of vineyards. "The location is perfect for exploring the Finger Lakes region, with wineries, hiking, and local attractions just a short drive away," shares Rui T. from Sned Acres Campground.
Mountain biking: Chenango Valley State Park offers multi-use trails ideal for mountain biking through forested terrain. "There are miles of trails to hike and roads to bike," states Fred C. from Chenango Valley.
What campers like
Lakeside views: Cayuga Lake State Park offers direct access to one of New York's largest finger lakes. "This was a perfect weekend getaway. Kayaking in Cayuga Lake was not lacking some beautiful views," shares Laura Nicole A. from Cayuga Lake State Park Campground.
Family-friendly amenities: Sampson State Park includes recreation facilities beyond standard camping. "Nice playgrounds. Military museum. Paved loops - good for bikes and scooters," according to Amanda K. from Sampson State Park Campground.
Swimming facilities: Taughannock Falls State Park offers structured swimming areas with lifeguards. "The beach area is well staffed and clean. Changing areas are available as well as a splash pad for the little kids," notes Fred C. from Chenango Valley State Park.
Clean bathroom facilities: While glamping in Tully, New York area parks often provides modern restroom access. "The bathrooms are great with showers and each camp spot has plenty of distance away from the next one," explains Kate W. from Sampson State Park.
What you should know
Weather conditions: The Finger Lakes region experiences varied conditions throughout camping season. "We got rained out," mentions Mary P. from Chenango Valley, while another camper notes, "We woke to snow on the tent," at Robert Treman in fall.
Booking windows: Reserve well ahead for summer stays, especially holiday weekends. "Fills up during August when the State Fair is in Syracuse (same is true for every campsite in this area)," warns Harry H. from Watkins Glen State Park Campground.
Site selection: Review campsite maps carefully before booking. "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords," advises Beth from Taughannock Falls.
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for common forest creatures. "Beware of raccoons. They are brazen thieves here...and every campground they inhabit. Just don't leave your food out," warns Mary S. from Chenango Valley State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection: When glamping near Tully with children, choose parks with designated swimming areas. "Swimming area goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of. They have fishing and boat rentals," shares Barbara S. from Taughannock Falls State Park Campground.
Bike-friendly loops: Several parks feature paved paths for young cyclists. "The campground is very walkable to the swimming area. The hiking to the waterfall is very manageable," notes Barbara S. from Taughannock Falls.
Rainy day options: Have backup plans for inclement weather. "There is a shop. There are bathrooms at the top and bottom of the trails," explains Sara H. from Watkins Glen, providing indoor options when needed.
Playground proximity: Consider campsite location relative to play areas. "Be weary that some of the camp sites are closer to playgrounds than they appear on the map," advises Jeremy T. from Cayuga Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many Finger Lakes camping areas require adjustment. "The sites are good sized, they offer cabins as well. The bathhouses are clean and well lit at night," explains Deb S. from Watkins Glen.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging internal roads. "The roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," cautions Laura L. from Watkins Glen State Park.
Hook-up placement: Verify utilities match your equipment. "Electric service boxes are shared in-between sites. This could pose an issue if your power cord is not long enough," warns Amanda K. from Sampson State Park.
Dump station access: Limited facilities may create congestion. "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 Amanda K. about Sampson State Park.
