Best Tent Camping near Watkins Glen, NY
Looking for the best Watkins Glen tent camping? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Watkins Glen. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Watkins Glen campsites are perfect for tent campers.
Best Tent Sites Near Watkins Glen, NY (14)
1. Back-Achers Campsites
Dresden, New York4 Reviews•3 Photos•50 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
2. Gardner Hill Campground
Elmira, New York1 Review•2 Photos•6 Saves- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Market
- Picnic Table
3. Lawrence Recreation Area
Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania2 Reviews•3 Photos•9 SavesOverview
Lawrence Recreation Area is a day-use facility on the south side of Cowanesque Lake. It is conveniently located on State Route 49 approximately 4 miles west of Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania. The area offers a great location for picnicking and shoreline fishing.
Recreation
Cowanesque Lake offers many outdoor activities including boating and fishing. A variety of native fish inhabits the area's streams and lakes. The North and South Tailrace areas provide access for fishing below the dam. The fields and forests around the lake are popular destinations for hunters looking for large and small game species that inhabit the eastern hardwood forests. Many miles of hiking trails surround the lake, including the Mid State Trail, which links the trails at Cowanesque and nearby Hammond Lake into a long path that extends all the way through Pennsylvania from Maryland to New York.
Facilities
The Cayuga Shelter is reservable for group picnicking. It is fully accessible and comfortably accommodates groups of up to 100 people in a lovely lakeside setting.
Natural Features
Cowanesque Lake is situated in the Endless Mountains region of Pennsylvania, along the Allegheny Plateau in the Appalachian Mountains. The surrounding land paints a scenic picture of rolling terrain and open fields.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Tents
- Group
- Picnic Table
$40 - $100 / night
4. Empire Haven Nudist Park
Moravia, New York1 Review•7 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
5. Holiday Hill Campground
Dansville, New York2 Reviews•7 Photos•8 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Tents
- Picnic Table
- WiFi
6. Catbird Hill
Bloomfield, New York2 Reviews•5 SavesThis site is no longer available
- Tents
$50 / night
7. Camp Earth Connection
Be the first to review!Harford, New York•72 Photos•2 SavesCamp Earth Connection (CEC), a small woodland campground, located on a beautiful parcel of land with 62 acres of forests and fields surrounded by the Hammond Hill State Forest. The camp is adjacent to the Hammond Hill State Forest, with 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and cross country skiing. CEC is so more than just a campground. CEC offer’s a place that people can experience real connections with nature and each other. Some find the that connection during walks in the woods, or sitting by our wildlife pond. While others find it with family, friends or new friends from the CEC community via campfire chats, trail walks, camp workshops or an outdoor ping pong game. CEC is also place where some find emotional and physical healing in this relaxing atmosphere.
Camp Earth Connection includes 18 camp/cabin sites, plus adjacent to the camp, in Eshay's Forest, there are 3 additional cabins/cottages with full amenities. These include: The Tiny House Retreat Cabin, Forest Moon Cottage and the Mountain Queen Cabin. Each site is unique and offers different levels of privacy and solitude. Guests can choose to have some peaceful alone time or be more engaged in our small community during our community campfires, campfire pancake breakfasts or workshops. When you book a cabin or campsite at CEC, you have the opportunity to camp at your comfort level (or challenge yourself with less amenities) and experience nature in the raw.
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Camp Earth Connection offers a variety of activities and workshops such as:
- Saturday morning Campfire Pancake Breakfast.
- Saturday evening Community Campfire.
- Thursday evening, Earth Movie night, (movies about the Earth and Sustainable living) followed by a campfire discussion.
- A variety of workshops are offered periodically led by Eshay and CEC staff and interns including: Making Fire in Nature; Eshay's Tree Walk (meet some of Eshay's favorite trees); Animal Tracks and Signs - trail walk, and more.
- All workshops and activities are free but donations are welcomed.
Camp Earth Connection offers individuals and families a chance to connect with each other and nature in a peaceful beautiful setting. Alcohol and drugs are prohibited to ensure this peaceful atmosphere and to allow folks to find serenity through our natural environment.
At CEC we are environmentally conscientious and do our best to preserve the natural surroundings and natural resources. We incorporate composting and recycling into our daily routine. We understand the importance of reducing the amount of resources we use, and re-using and re-generating whenever possible.
Camp Earth Connection values: Diversity, Acceptance and Community and welcomes diverse families and friends including the BIPOC and LGBTQ community. Camp Earth Connection welcomes and values people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. We do our best to make sure our guests feel safe, cared for and respected. We of course expect the same in return.
I hope you check out Camp Earth Connection, I don't believe you will be disappointed!
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Cabins
$35 - $85 / night
8. The PineApple Farm
Newark, New York1 Review•12 Photos•2 SavesReconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Unwind on our woodland trails adjacent to the Erie Canal trail. Try Camping Off grid with solar power and a 55 gallon water supply! To make your stay even more memorable we have an outhouse and a COLD solar shower. There are USB ports inside for charging your phone. The bedroom is 10x10 and fully enclosed with a small solar fan, lights and a few good books. For cooking: there is a fire pit also used for sunsets & stargazing!
This is CAMPING, completely “Off-grid” located in the woodland but close to the main house. It is cooled by the breezes and/or a small fan when needed on hot nights.
The living area is on the outdoor deck. A long bench in the “living room” and a great table for dining. The bedroom is a 10x10 space that is fully enclosed with windows that open on 3 sides for fresh air. The outhouse (a modern one - hole). and shower are “out back)
There is a smoking area in the field next to the fire pit. It is the ONLY place smoking is allowed.
There are over 20 acres of woodland in a DEC crop tree management program, the property connects to the Erie Canal hiking/biking trail that runs between Buffalo and Albany or in a more local sense, between Palmyra and Newark, NY
This is camping. You may see and hear deer, turkey, skunk, raccoons, birds, insects, reptiles and other “wild things” both day and night
Solar fan, lights and USB port is available for charging
There is a fire pit/grill and firewood is supplied, you can get eggs from our free range chickens and there is a campfire coffee pot if you are ready to cook over the campfire!
There is a Coleman cooler available for your ice and cold foods.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Cabins
- Glamping
$109 - $150 / night
9. Riverside Acres Campground
Towanda, Pennsylvania2 Reviews•18 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
$22 - $35 / night
10. South Shore Recreation Area
Be the first to review!Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania•1 Photo•1 SaveOverview
South Shore Recreation Area is located on the south side of the Cowanesque Lake along State Route 49, just five miles west of Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania. The area is easily accessible from Route 15 and offers a great location for boating, picnicking and fishing.
Recreation
Cowanesque Lake offers a variety of outdoor activities including boating and fishing. A variety of native fish inhabits the area's streams and lakes. The North and South Tailrace areas provide access for fishing below the dam. The fields and forests around the lake are popular destinations for hunters looking for large and small game species that inhabit the eastern hardwood forests. Many miles of hiking trails circle the lake, including the Mid State Trail, which travels through the recreation area. It links the trails at Cowanesque and nearby Hammond Lake into a long path that extends all the way through Pennsylvania from Maryland to New York.
Facilities
The recreation area offers three group shelters. The Iroquois and Oneida Shelters have electric and water hookups; the Mohawk Shelter has water hookups only. All three sites are fully accessible and comfortably accommodate groups of up to 100 people in a lovely lakeside setting.
Natural Features
Cowanesque Lake is situated in the Endless Mountains region of Pennsylvania, along the Allegheny Plateau in the Appalachian Mountains. The surrounding land paints a scenic picture of rolling terrain and open fields.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Tents
- Group
- Picnic Table
$40 - $100 / night
Recent Tent Reviews in Watkins Glen
417 Reviews of 14 Watkins Glen Campgrounds
- BBeth
Guide
Taughannock Falls State Park Campground
Great little campground
Pulled back and punted bc of Storm Debbie. Lucked out with a find in the Finger Lakes. Nice campground. Has everything you need. Small sites but fine for our hybrid. Ours was shady. Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you’ll need extra long cords. Just beautiful area. Hiked here. Drove to Watkins Glen-hiked-absolutely breathtaking. That campground is much larger. Went to Buttermilk Falls too.
- A
Andrew S.Guide
Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping
Amazing campground
Very well maintained. Some sites are close and some a spread out. About half of them are in the sun and half get shade all day. I switched sites after a day to get some solar charging. Clean bathrooms with flush toilets. Sign in near bathrooms on arrival. Dogs must be on a leash but I found a spot down the hill to the south where there are no campsites to let them play fetch for a bit.
- mmeg
Scout
Cayuga Lake State Park Campground
Tent camping in a backyard
Tent camping here felt like we were camping in a neighborhood backyard. We could hear so many different families talking and really doing everything you do while camping but the area felt so open and unobstructed voices carried and in the evening when everyone was building campfires the smoke could be overwhelming at times.
- William F.
Traveler
Watkins Glen State Park Campground
Solid 4 stars
Nice campground, sites are borderline close, and some are laid out funky. Bath houses get the job done, but nothing exciting.
- Rui T.Guide
Sned Acres Campground
Great getaway time
5/5 Stars!
I recently stayed at Sned Acres Campground, and it was an incredible experience! The campground is beautifully maintained with stunning views of Cayuga Lake. The staff was friendly, welcoming, and went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed. The facilities were spotless, and the campsites were spacious and well-kept. Whether you’re RVing or tent camping, there’s plenty of space and privacy.
The location is perfect for exploring the Finger Lakes region, with wineries, hiking, and local attractions just a short drive away. The peaceful atmosphere and serene surroundings made for a relaxing getaway. I can’t recommend Sned Acres enough – we’ll definitely be back!
- vvirginia C.Scout
Kanakadea Park
Noisy
Big open campground with lots of sites both electric and non electric. Many rigs in non electric sites running generators 24 hours. Very noisy. Would not recommend
Jacob D.Guide
Foster Pond Camping Area
Relaxed Free Dispersed Camping
Right at the intersection of Potomac Road and Chicken Coop road in the Finger Lakes National Forest. If heading North on Potomac Road, turn left at the intersection and you’ll find a parking lot. Into the woods around the Lake you’ll find free dispersed camping.
My mom and I stayed just in the parking lot and had no issues and weren’t bothered. NO AMENITIES
- jjimlonesScout
Oak Orchard Marina And Campground
We here
I love it here
- Emily F.Guide
Stony Brook State Park Campground
Review about sites 321 to 325
I stayed here and it was very peaceful, but it was also pretty empty. Some of the sides are very close together, but if you look around, you can get one that has a little bit more privacy. Clean bathrooms, clean showers. Hikes from the site. Swimming as well!!
Tero C.Traveler
Creek n wood
Tero
Love the way you explain things. Very helpful! Solar
- Tero C.Traveler
Stay Bristol Woodlands
Tero
Love reading your posts. Always something new to learn. Solar
- Tero C.Traveler
Catbird Hill
Tero
This article was very enlightening. Appreciate the insights. Solar
NikolasTraveler
Canandaigua-Rochester KOA
Niko
Great insights! Thanks for providing such detailed and helpful information. Solar
- PP J.Scout
Taughannock Falls State Park Campground
Below average SP campground
As for RV camping, this place is outdated. Sites are on top of one another, but some have good shade. Ours, site 6 didn't. Really can't walk to beach area or store. Cheap enough at $25. T-storms knocked out power overnight.
Pork L.ScoutCamp Elmbois
Nice place
An ideal place to try difficult challenges geometry dash meltdown that I have never tried before.
David M.GuideSned Acres Campground
Beautiful Wide Open grounds with a lot of flat nice grass
We stayed here for Memorial Day Weekend and really enjoyed Sned Acres. The Grounds are well taken care of (although some areas around the playgrounds and pool could have been weed whacked better) there is a lot of grass and wide open areas for playing games, walking your dogs and you can let your dogs drag their leashes so they have free roam and feel like they are running free. The large pond is nice, there were a lot of campers fishing. The general store is well stocked and the family running the campground and store are very friendly. There is a nice pool for the kids. The only thing that would make Sned better is a little more spacing between the sites, they are close (we were in F130) to where if you open your window shades in your camper your neighbors are 5-10 feet away from you. Would definitely stay again if in the area.
Paulina B.
RangerSugar Hill Recreation Area Camping
Dog Friendly Retreat near Watkins Glen
We stayed at Sugar Hill for about 10 days, arriving right after Memorial Day weekend. The campground offers a variety of great options for various rig sizes, accommodating different needs comfortably. Its location is convenient, just a 15-minute drive from Watkins Glen, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.
During our stay, the campsite never even got near half full, providing a peaceful and uncrowded experience. For those seeking more privacy, there are numerous secluded spots along the side roads throughout the park.
However, it's worth noting that WiFi and phone service are pretty limited, typically ranging between 1-2 bars. Despite this minor inconvenience, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would recommend Sugar Hill for its tranquility and proximity to local attractions.
- jjody M.Scout
Stay Bristol Woodlands
Clean and wellvrun
Site was level and well equipped (waste water disposal attach site!) Bathrooms clean and fullyvfunctional
Nicole S.Ranger
Watkins Glen / Corning KOA
Mixed Feelings
This was our families first SoLo trip with our camper. It had alot of things to do indoor/ outdoor pool, pirate ship, slide, big pillow, waterside, golf and rock wall. The campground and showers were clean. There were some things that didn't work like the army truck ride, zipline, and playground. The biggest downfall was being near the dump station and something going on with this makeshift site next to us where around our area smelled of sewer fumes all the time we went out for dinner one night because my 3 yr old was gaging. However the area was absolutely gorgeous we hiked so many waterfalls, went and rented a boat for the day to check out the lake, and drive to the next lake to check out the park.
Sunny B.Scout
Harpy Hollow
Nice place
A great place to visit, I really like this place. I often lie here admiring the scenery and playing suika game. I like everything that is peaceful and slow
- PPaul B.Traveler
Finger Lakes Campground
Scenic, pleasant campground
Good size sites, mostly back-in, some gravel and some grass. New owner making daily improvements. Great manager doing her best to accommodate every camper. Very limited to non existent cell service, Reason for 4 stars.
- PPaul B.Traveler
Bud Valley Campground
Now FingerLakes Campground
This is now Finger Lakes Campground.
- PPaul B.Traveler
Camp Elmbois
Mostly Seasonal
Owners on site, very friendly, and accommodating. Water and 30a, dump station. Some larger sites to accommodate up to 40’ rigs. Reasonable width sites.
Ashley F.
Legend
The PineApple Farm
New listing
Ashley here with The Dyrt. We're happy to welcome this new property to our platform. Check them out and come back here to leave some love!
Roger W.LegendCanandaigua-Rochester KOA
Perimeter & Lakeside Are Best
KOA Canandaigua/Rochester NY: (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good (70 yr olds in 17’ trailer). I rate based on desire for at least a moderate wilderness type experience w at least some camp site privacy. Overall Rating: for a KOA :4 - see map for nicest sites. Price 2023: $61 for a 30 amp site Usage during visit: Light - off season Site Privacy: Our site : None Site Spacing: Close Site surface: Gravel and grass Reservations: They take reservations- Recommend the KOA app Campground Noise: Quiet during our stay. Road Noise: There will some noise at sites near Town Line Rd. Traffic is minimal Through Traffic in campground: None Electric Hookup: Yes Sewer Hookup: Some sites. Dump Station: Yes Potable Water Available: At the site.
Bathroom/ Showers: Individual shower/toilet rooms. VERY clean. Pull Throughs: Yes Cell Service (AT&T): 2 bars.
Setting: Parklike - typical KOA Weather: Highs are pin the low 50s during our stay Bugs: None this time of year. Host: Yes. Johnny on the spot.
Rig size: Large rigs Sites: See the map in photos . Best sites are circled with green marker. Request a perimeter site or lake side if you want one is my suggestion. Otherwise you get what they give you.
Carl G.Guide
Keuka Lake State Park Campground
Another beautiful State Park
Keuka Lake is small, boat launch, small beach playground at beach and camp ground. Hiking, biking. Not far from Penn Yan, nice city, winery's are all over. TV reception there is none, cell phone not great either. Lake is clean and clear, great for fishing, boating, and swimming. Park is clean and well maintained.
- LLATHA S.Scout
Taughannock Falls State Park Campground
Met the basic needs, but have seen better
The park itself is located in a great region, close to many other top attractions of the Finger Lakes region. There are few nice hiking trails right from the park, which our whole family enjoyed.
We camped as a small group in two sites across from each other. Where we were, the sites were close to the road, and the road noise was distracting. The sites were also very close to each other and rather shallow, thereby limiting privacy. Upper sites, closer to the falls looked a lot nicer, deeper, and quieter, but we had no choice since it was booked with short notice. Not much to say about park facilities. Basic restroom and shower facilities, but the ability to do dishes in the designated sink in the bathroom was a plus. Bathroom facilities were old and not well maintained. We barely saw any real cleaning either. So, that was a bummer.
All in all, if you are eager to get out and camp, and have no better choice, I would say you will be OK. Otherwise, there are nicer options around.
Guide to Watkins Glen
Nestled in the beautiful Finger Lakes region, Watkins Glen, New York, offers fantastic opportunities for tent camping amidst stunning natural landscapes and local attractions.
Local Attractions and Activities
- Explore the breathtaking trails and waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park, just a short drive from Back-Achers Campsites.
- Enjoy wine tasting at one of the many nearby wineries, with over 40 options close to Back-Achers Campsites.
- Take a scenic drive along Seneca Lake, where you can soak in the picturesque views and stop for a picnic at Empire Haven Nudist Park.
Tent Camping Prices
- Tent camping at Back-Achers Campsites typically ranges from $30 to $50 per night, depending on the season.
- At Holiday Hill Campground, expect to pay around $43 per night for a tent site during peak season.
- Prices at Camp Earth Connection vary, but you can find affordable options for tent camping.
Nearby Activities for Tent Campers
- Hike the scenic trails around Gardner Hill Campground for a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the views.
- Kayak or fish at Cowanesque Lake, accessible from Lawrence Recreation Area.
- Enjoy a peaceful retreat at South Shore Recreation Area, where you can relax by the water and take in the serene surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Watkins Glen, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Watkins Glen, NY is Back-Achers Campsites with a 5-star rating from 4 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Watkins Glen, NY?
TheDyrt.com has all 14 tent camping locations near Watkins Glen, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.