Seneca Lake and its surrounding areas sit at approximately 900 feet above sea level in the Finger Lakes region, creating a microclimate that extends the camping season from early April through late October. RV campers can find sites with elevation changes of 100-300 feet between lakeside parks and more forested locations, affecting both views and overnight temperatures that typically drop 10-15 degrees from daytime highs.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: Access Eagle Cliff waterfall at Havana Glen via a short trail with multiple steps. "This camp ground has a beautiful waterfall you can hike up to and swim in, also the sites are nice and have everything you'd need," notes visitor Sara M.
Blueberry picking: Visit the actual blueberry patch at Blueberry Patch Campground during summer months. "There are in fact blueberries! And a great field to see the stars from," confirms Emily S., who appreciated the secluded forest setting.
Winery tours: Walk to adjacent vineyards directly from some campgrounds. A visitor at Finger Lakes RV Resort mentioned, "They are bookended by two wineries with walking paths from the campground," making wine tasting convenient without driving.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention appreciating larger, more private campsites. At Blueberry Patch Campground, Neil H. reports, "Large camp sites with a picnic table large enough for 6 adults, metal fire pit with grill, large tent footprint and space for 2-3 vehicles to park."
Immaculate facilities: Newer bathroom buildings receive high praise at certain properties. "The bath house is immaculate and rivals those at Fort Wilderness Resort," shares Craig F. about his stay at Finger Lakes RV Resort.
Lake access options: Smith Memorial Park offers direct water access. Elena C. appreciates that "it is just a short walk to the beautiful lake front" and notes the "very nice little beach for swimming and the perfect spot for going to the wineries."
What you should know
Limited cell coverage: Service varies considerably away from town centers. At more remote locations like Blueberry Patch Campground, no reviews mention reliable connectivity, suggesting limited service.
Winter closures: Most rv parks near Watkins Glen close completely between October and April. Pine Valley RV Park specifies a season of "May 1 to September 30" in its official listing.
Water availability: Some forest locations require bringing your own water supply. At Blueberry Patch Campground, Neil H. warns, "BRING WATER. There are no water sources near the site. There is a gas station about 15 minutes away on route 79."
Reservation timing: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Maggie A. recommends, "My only recommendation is that you arrive earlier and set up if you're camping during the busy season. Otherwise it fills up fast."
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Watkins Glen/Corning KOA offers numerous family amenities. Nicole S. reports, "It had alot of things to do indoor/outdoor pool, pirate ship, slide, big pillow, waterside, golf and rock wall."
Quiet alternatives: For families seeking less crowded options, consider smaller parks. Shari G. found Blueberry Patch Campground to be the "Quietest Place on Earth" noting, "We woke up to thrushes singing and fell asleep to nightingales and owls calling!"
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature dedicated swimming areas. Mark L. notes that Pine Valley RV Park has "hayrides in the summer and swimming in the lake. Lakeside sites are spacious and reasonably priced."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many rv parks Watkins Glen feature gravel pads that require minimal adjustment. Randy G. at Finger Lakes RV Resort appreciated "incredibly clean in every way" sites that didn't require extensive setup.
Length restrictions: Some campgrounds limit RV size. Smith Memorial Park accommodates smaller units, while RVers at Pine Valley RV Park report comfortable spacing for larger units with "Lakeside sites are spacious and reasonably priced."
Access road considerations: RVers should note potential challenges with steep entrance roads. Marty A. warns about Lakeview Campsites, "Gravel inclined access road that may not be for new RV owners," suggesting experienced drivers will have fewer issues.
