Watkins Glen State Park's camping options extend beyond standard sites to include upscale accommodations. The park sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation in New York's Finger Lakes region, characterized by deep glacial lakes and dramatic gorges. Traditional tent camping sites offer shaded, wooded settings while luxury options provide elevated experiences for those seeking glamping in Tyrone, New York and surrounding areas.
What to do
Hiking beyond the Gorge Trail: While the Gorge Trail gets most attention, the park offers additional trails worth exploring. "There are a total of 19 waterfalls on your way up, all of them absolutely beautiful. There are also several more waterfalls nearby that are very easy hikes. Our favorite was Eagles Cliffs Falls," notes Jennifer W. from Watkins Glen State Park Campground.
Finger Lakes wine trail: The region features numerous wineries accessible from camping areas. "The Seneca Lake Wine Trail runs right through this area and makes for a fun diversion to your hiking trip!" says Erin H. who stayed at Watkins Glen State Park.
Swimming options: Several parks offer swimming beyond the main gorge area. At Robert H. Treman State Park Campground, "Beautiful waterfall swimming pool is very cold, but great on a hot day," according to a camper identified as "not S." The park features a natural swimming hole below a waterfall with diving board access during summer months.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. "The bathhouses are clean and well lit at night," reports Deb S. who regularly visits Watkins Glen State Park Campground. This attention to cleanliness extends to campsites as well.
Spacious campsites: Many reviewers appreciate the generous site dimensions. "The sites are good sized, they offer cabins as well," notes Deb S. At Sampson State Park Campground, campers find "Beautiful. Spacious campsites, electric and water hook ups," according to Michele D.
Historical features: Several parks offer educational opportunities alongside natural attractions. Sampson State Park "has a Naval museum with many authentic items from that era. Very shady and ample bathroom, shower, and water facilities," explains Brian O., making this location appealing for those interested in luxury camping near Tyrone, New York with educational components.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most glamping accommodations operate on limited schedules. "We stayed a week and absolutely loved it! Great hiking to waterfalls, beautiful campgrounds and a large playground. Some sites have shared fresh water hookup between the sites," Jennifer D. mentions about Robert H. Treman State Park, which operates from April 22 to November 20.
Bathroom quality varies: Even within the same campground, facility conditions can differ. "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," advises Lori F. who stayed at Watkins Glen State Park.
Pet restrictions: While most campgrounds allow pets, specific trails may have limitations. "Dogs are allowed but they are not allowed on the gorge trail. I'm ok with this I just wish I had know before we got there," warns Lindsay C. about Watkins Glen, highlighting the importance of checking pet policies before booking glamping sites in the Tyrone, New York vicinity.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Several parks feature play areas for children. At Camp Bell Campground, "Kids enjoyed the the big playground and mini arcade. Has a large pool for swimming and fun activities," according to Nick O., making it suitable for families seeking premium outdoor stays.
Kid-friendly waterfall hikes: Many trails accommodate younger hikers with proper supervision. "I have a 7 year old son and he enjoyed every second of this, there is a lot to see and a lot of water to play in!" shares Jennifer W. about Watkins Glen State Park.
Swimming pools: For families with children who prefer swimming pools to natural water features, several campgrounds offer this option. "Nice place. Has plenty of close by attractions. Kids enjoyed the the big playground and mini arcade. Has a large pool for swimming and fun activities," notes Nick O. about Camp Bell Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some parks present difficulties for larger rigs. At Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," cautions Victoria who stayed at Robert H. Treman State Park.
Road considerations: Internal campground roads may present challenges for larger vehicles. "The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," warns Laura L. about Watkins Glen State Park Campground.
Water quality issues: Some campers report water quality concerns at certain locations. At Ferenbaugh Campground, "I actually bought a dual stage water filter and change it every two weeks," reports Gary V., noting the "very smelly and brown" water, an important consideration for glamping enthusiasts seeking upscale accommodations near Tyrone, New York.
