Cabin camping near Warners, New York offers year-round access to the Finger Lakes region, with most facilities situated within 30 miles of town. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F while winter months drop to 20-30°F, affecting availability of water hookups at certain campgrounds. The region sits at elevations ranging from 400-600 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain and lake access points for campers seeking rustic accommodations.
What to do
Hiking trails: Green Lakes State Park features a 3.1-mile loop trail around two glacier-formed turquoise lakes with ample shade. "There are miles of trails to explore," notes Cindy H., who visited the park and enjoyed the distinctive water color.
Water activities: Lake access for swimming and fishing remains available at multiple parks. At Fair Haven Beach State Park, visitors appreciate the sandy beach on Lake Ontario. "The view from the bluff is unbeatable," according to reviewer Marlene H., who notes the park is "very kid friendly" with accessible swimming areas.
Winter recreation: Several parks maintain winter operations for activities like cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Fillmore Glen State Park remains open during winter months for these activities, offering a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts when most cabin facilities close for the season.
What campers like
Private lake access: Smaller campgrounds provide direct water access without crowds. "Tiny quiet campground right on duck lake. Water front sites available," writes Sydney W. about Duck Lake Cabins and Campground, highlighting the more secluded water access compared to larger state parks.
Shower facilities: Many campgrounds have updated their bathroom facilities. At Fillmore Glen State Park Campground, "Bathrooms are very clean and close to all campsites," according to Charyssa G., who appreciated the convenience for families with children.
Location convenience: Proximity to towns provides easy access to supplies. "I enjoy this park so much! Really love that it is a park in the middle of little towns. Close to grocery, great walks and fun lake to swim in," notes Kelly J. about Green Lakes State Park, emphasizing the balance between natural settings and practical amenities.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites than others. At Oneida Shores County Park, "Not a lot of shade" was noted by Keith M., while the review mentioned "Friendly campers and quiet" as positives. This contrast with more wooded options reflects the regional diversity.
Weekend booking challenges: Advance planning becomes essential during peak season and fair dates. Harry H. mentions that Cayuga Lake State Park "Fills up during August when the State Fair is in Syracuse (same is true for every campsite in this area)," indicating the need for early reservations.
Seasonal limitations: Water systems shut down during colder months at most sites. Most cabin locations operate only from May through October, with restricted services outside those dates due to freezing temperatures affecting plumbing systems.
Tips for camping with families
Activity schedules: Parks organize children's events throughout peak season. "Kids activities are great. Even with COVID they have stuff to keep them busy," writes Victoria about Lake Bluff RV Park, mentioning the regular programming that continues despite challenges.
Swimming options: Look for parks with lifeguarded swimming areas for safety. Several parks maintain supervised beaches during summer months, typically from late June through Labor Day, with water quality testing conducted weekly.
Playground access: Many sites feature updated play equipment near cabin areas. "The beach area is wide and shallow in most areas. In close proximity to the store and snack shop (ICE CREAM)," Sheri S. notes about Green Lakes State Park, highlighting amenities appealing to families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Campsite leveling: Some locations have notably flat sites requiring minimal adjustment. At Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp Resort at Mexico, one visitor noted, "Sites were flat, easy to level travel trailer," mentioning this practical advantage for RV campers concerned about setup time.
Hookup availability: Electric service ranges from 30-50 amp depending on location. Most cabin areas share campground infrastructure with RV sites, allowing for electricity access though specific amperage varies by park.
Access roads: Interior campground roads vary in condition across the region. Keith M. at Oneida Shores noted the campground was "Easy to find," though some secondary roads leading to cabin areas may be unpaved or narrower than main access routes.
