The central Finger Lakes region offers RV camping near Warners, New York, within easy reach of Lake Ontario to the north and the Finger Lakes to the south. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations between 400-1,200 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during camping season. Winter camping isn't widely available as most facilities close from mid-October through April due to harsh weather conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails near campgrounds: Visitors staying at The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone can explore several hiking trails around the property. "There are some great hikes around the campground, as well as excellent playgrounds, fishing, an awesome pool, and of course, free shuttle rides to the Turning Stone Casino right up the street," notes a camper.
Meteor shower viewing: The dark skies away from urban centers make this region ideal for stargazing. "One of my favorite campgrounds in NY. Its so peaceful at night. My favorite time to come is August during the meteor showers," shares a visitor about their experience at Ontario Shores RV Park.
Winery tours by foot: Some campgrounds offer unique access to local wineries. At Finger Lakes RV Resort, "Walking paths from the campground to two different wineries" allow campers to enjoy tastings without driving. Another visitor mentioned, "Two wineries are even walkable! Owners are clearly dedicated to excellence."
Waterfall exploration: The region's geology creates spectacular waterfall viewing opportunities. "We went and it is a 'must see' while there. Basically 15 minutes from the campground," explains one visitor about Salmon River Falls near Brennan Beach Campground.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at newer RV parks. "Bathhouse was pristine and the sites were level and spacious. Still a new campground so we can't wait to return once all the landscaping has grown in," notes a visitor to Finger Lakes RV Resort.
Strong WiFi connections: Unlike many rural camping areas, some campgrounds offer reliable internet. "Wifi was strong enough to do work calls," mentions one camper. Another adds, "The WiFi is strong and consistent," which is particularly valuable for those working remotely.
Personal touches from owners: Family-owned operations often provide exceptional service. At Woonton Family Farms, visitors appreciate "a cozy and beautiful campsite with personal attention of the owner. We had a great campfire, fresh blackberries and the option of canoeing."
Convenient waste management: Daily services make longer stays more comfortable. "Daily trash and recycling pick-up from each site," was highlighted by a camper as an appreciated convenience that isn't common at all facilities.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds close during winter months. "Brennan Beach Campground in Pulaski offers RV sites with water and electric hookups along with sanitary dump services, operating seasonally from May through mid-October," notes one resource.
Rail noise at some locations: Be prepared for occasional train disturbances at certain campgrounds. "The only real negatives would be the proximity to some railroad tracks, which can be somewhat active and very audible in some spots," warns a visitor about The Villages RV Park.
Pricing variations for tent campers: RV-focused parks may charge premium rates for tent sites. At Brennan Beach Campground, one camper noted, "They gave me a tent spot for $70. About 10 yards to the next campsite in either direction, zero privacy."
Weather contingencies: The region experiences occasional severe weather. "We experienced a severe thunderstorm one evening which resulted in an area-wide power outage that lasted a couple days," shared a camper, highlighting the importance of backup power options.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playground access: Family-friendly facilities offer dedicated play areas. "Very nice thousand trail campgrounds. Very large I believe it's 1300+ sites. We went late summer so it was becoming offseason. Most amenities close down. Pool, swimming at Lake Ontario beach, etc," notes a visitor describing Brennan Beach Campground.
Choose parks with swimming options: During summer months, water activities provide essential recreation. One visitor to Butternut Hill RV Campground appreciated "the good WiFi, showers, laundry, and bathrooms!" which are essential amenities when camping with children.
Consider proximity to attractions: Locations near educational destinations enhance family trips. "We also took a drive to the University of Syracuse to tour the campus. Clean and wonderful park," mentions a family staying at The Villages RV Park.
Book early for holiday weekends: Family-friendly campgrounds fill quickly during peak periods. "We booked early, which was a good thing because they were 100% full for Indigenous People's Day," advises a camper, underscoring the importance of advance planning.
Tips from RVers
Select level sites for larger rigs: RV sites near Warners, New York often feature graded surfaces. At Streamside RV Park & Golf Course, "All sites are a back in site yet it was long enough for us to stay hooked up. We had full hook up. The sites are tight like most RV parks."
Check amperage options: Power requirements vary by RV size and systems. "We paid $37.50 for a one night stay. That is a good price for full hook up," notes a visitor about the value at Streamside RV Park, where both 30 and 50-amp service is available.
Position for shade when possible: Summer heat can make RVs uncomfortable. "This is a small campground set up on the periphery of Butternut Hill farm which is located on the main Route 20 in Bouckville NY," explains a camper, noting that "The campsites all back to the woods on the west side, so this serves as a good windbreak too."
Verify site spacing for slide-outs: Some parks offer more room than others. "Spacious FHU sites. Pull thru and back ins," mentions a visitor to Ontario Shores RV Park, indicating adequate room for extended RV features.
