Cabin accommodations near Union Springs, New York offer direct lake access points in a region containing 11 glacier-carved finger lakes. Winter temperatures drop to 15°F with summer averages reaching 82°F, creating distinct camping seasons from April through October. Most cabin facilities in the area remain seasonal with closures during winter months.
What to do
Swimming at natural pools: Taughannock Falls State Park Campground features swimming areas up to 12 feet deep with jumping docks. "The swimming area, which goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of," notes one visitor who found the facilities "very walkable" from the camping area.
Visit military history sites: Sampson State Park Campground preserves a former naval training base with educational displays. "There is a museum, boat launch, pavilions, and ice cream shop on the camp ground," describes one camper, adding that "maintenance crew starts around 7" for those planning early morning activities.
Fishing opportunities: The small lakes and ponds throughout the region provide varied fishing environments. At Sned Acres Campground, "the large pond is nice, there were a lot of campers fishing," reports a visitor who spent Memorial Day weekend at the grounds.
What campers like
Homemade welcome treats: Sned Acres Campground provides a personal touch with fresh baked goods for arriving guests. "We loved our stay at Sned-Acres! We spent 4 nights there in June 2019... The friendship bread given to us at check-in was so touching and sweet (as well as delicious)," writes one reviewer.
Spacious sites away from crowds: Campers praise the less-crowded areas for those seeking quiet. "We stayed in the 800 loop along the tree line. Sites were very spacious! Great camping location with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy or just sit and enjoy the peace," shares a visitor at Cayuga Lake State Park.
Waterfall proximity: Fillmore Glen State Park Campground offers cabin stays with natural water features nearby. "The swimming is only allowed in certain parts and there are some pretty steep drop offs so watch the kids close," cautions one visitor who otherwise "had a good time" at this "awesome little park in the Finger Lakes region."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Pay attention to specific site locations when booking. "Be weary that some of the camp sites are closer to playgrounds than they appear on the map," advises one camper at Cayuga Lake State Park who recommends site 1002 as "one of the best in the campground! Very secluded and private."
Insect preparation: The lake environments create mosquito habitats, particularly in summer. "Bring lots of bugspray and fire starters as it does rain up here which affects the fire wood," suggests a visitor, indicating the dual challenges of pests and potentially damp conditions.
Water hookup limitations: Sampson State Park Campground has restricted water access points. "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," warns one RVer who also noted "only 2 dump stations" are available.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity considerations: Taughannock Falls State Park Campground offers play areas but site selection matters. "There is a small playground for kids. The campground is very walkable to the swimming area," mentions a visitor who stayed at site 42, describing it as "mostly shady" with the upper campground offering "pretty private" sites.
Educational opportunities: Family-focused visitors can combine recreation with learning. "Bring bicycles and definitely go on both visual and audio tours," recommends a camper who found the interpretive materials engaging for different age groups.
Swimming safety awareness: Natural water features require supervision. "The campground has playgrounds and areas for various sports but is pretty 'rustic' overall. Swimming is only allowed in certain parts and there are some pretty steep drop offs so watch the kids close," advises a parent about Fillmore Glen facilities.
Tips from RVers
Electric box sharing arrangements: Sampson State Park has unique power hookup configurations. "Electric service boxes are shared in-between sites. This could pose an issue if your power cord is not long enough," warns a repeat visitor who also noted backing requirements: "They don't allow pull-in camping. Campers MUST be backed in."
Narrow interior roads: Navigation can be challenging at some locations. "The roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," reports an RVer with a 30-foot motorhome who stayed at Watkins Glen State Park, though they still found the experience worthwhile for the "absolutely beautiful" surroundings.
Seasonal consideration: Some locations accommodate larger rigs despite challenging access. Junius Ponds Cabins and Campgrounds provides "an oversized, long pull through available (site 88) that made entering and exiting the site nice and easy," according to a visitor traveling with a "36' 5th wheel (mid-profile)" who found the roads "narrow and hilly" but manageable.
