Sugar Hill Recreation Area provides free dispersed camping in a central location 15 minutes from Watkins Glen. The campground sits at 2,018 feet elevation in the northern section of the Finger Lakes National Forest. Campers access sites via gravel roads leading to clearly designated camping areas featuring picnic tables and fire rings.
What to do
Waterfalls and gorges: Visit the dramatic gorge scenery at Watkins Glen State Park Campground, where you can hike multiple trails. "There's the waterfall which is easy for even children to get to, and several beautiful hiking paths in all seasons," notes Erin H.
Visit local wineries: The campgrounds near Tyrone provide easy access to wine country. "The Finger Lakes RV park... with walking paths from the campground to two wineries," reports Matt S. from Finger Lakes RV Resort.
Horse riding trails: Sugar Hill accommodates equestrians with designated areas. "People bring their horses. You can drive to to your site and tent camp or camper camp," explains Hannah G. The network of trails accommodates riders of various experience levels.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping serves as a strategic base for exploring the region. "We stayed at Sugar Hill for about 10 days... convenient, just a 15-minute drive from Watkins Glen, making it an ideal base for exploring the area," writes Paulina B.
Uncrowded campsites: Even during peak periods, many campgrounds maintain a peaceful atmosphere. "During our stay, the campsite never even got near half full, providing a peaceful and uncrowded experience," notes one Sugar Hill visitor.
Modern facilities: Clean bathrooms with flush toilets are available at most campgrounds. At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, "Friendly staff, good patrols at night to keep people from being too noisy, tent sites are nice and shaded. Some of the shower houses are better than others," reports Lori F.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Prepare for limited connectivity at forest campgrounds. "WiFi and phone service are pretty limited, typically ranging between 1-2 bars," reports a Sugar Hill camper.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have water issues requiring filtration. At Ferenbaugh Campground, one camper noted: "Make sure you use a water filter, there was a lot of sediment in the water when we were there."
Site registration procedures: For Sugar Hill, "Register for overnight at bathroom building kiosk. Day visits just sign log," advises Licia S., explaining the straightforward process.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Tyrone offer recreational facilities for children. At Camp Bell Campground, "Kids enjoyed the the big playground and mini arcade. Has a large pool for swimming and fun activities," reports Nick O.
Swimming options: Most campgrounds offer swimming facilities or access to nearby lakes. "The park's facilities blend rustic charm with modern comforts: clean flush toilets, hot-water showers, and convenient potable water stations," reports Jama A. about Watkins Glen State Park.
Hiking difficulty levels: Trails range from easy to moderate, suitable for various ages. "I would describe the hikes as moderately difficult. The main one has a lot of steps but lots of walkway in between them so it's not just up up up more steps," shares Jennifer W.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV sites vary in privacy and size across campgrounds. At Keuka Lake State Park Campground, "The sites are large and many have electric. Mature trees surround campsites and separate the loops from each other," reports Helen H.
Hookup availability: Check utility options when booking. "They offer 30/50 amp sites, also have full hook ups and some primitive sites," notes Gary V. about Ferenbaugh Campground.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have tighter access roads. At Watkins Glen, "the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," cautions Laura L., though she still managed with a 30-foot motorhome.
