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, New York (13)
1. Back-Achers Campsites
4 Reviews•3 Photos•52 SavesDresden, New York- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
2. Gardner Hill Campground
1 Review•2 Photos•6 SavesElmira, New York- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Market
- Picnic Table
3. Lawrence Recreation Area
2 Reviews•3 Photos•9 SavesLawrenceville, PennsylvaniaOverview
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
1 Review•7 SavesMoravia, New York- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
5. Holiday Hill Campground
2 Reviews•7 Photos•9 SavesDansville, New York- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Tents
- Picnic Table
- WiFi
6. Camp Earth Connection
Be the first to review!•72 Photos•2 SavesHarford, New YorkCamp 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 Saturday morning Campfire Pancake Breakfast.
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
$45 - $125 / night
7. The PineApple Farm
1 Review•12 Photos•2 SavesNewark, New YorkReconnect 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
8. Riverside Acres Campground
2 Reviews•18 SavesTowanda, Pennsylvania- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
$22 - $35 / night
9. South Shore Recreation Area
Be the first to review!•1 Photo•1 SaveLawrenceville, PennsylvaniaOverview
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 near Watkins Glen, NY
421 Reviews of 13 Watkins Glen Campgrounds
- Mike C.
Scout
Park Station Campground
Hidden Gem
Great place, low key camping with power. Nice spacious lots. Gravel sites help keep the camper clean and keeps the mud down. Convenient location to explore the Finger Lakes. 30-40 minutes from Watkins Glen, Ithaca and Corning.
- VVictoria M.Scout
Pooh's Corner
Private , funny and clean spot
This facility is perfect for couple of people , private all you need is there , fireplace , fire wood, bathroom , cat and dog))) some of the grounds have hammock upon request. Take your vehicle with you ,no more long distance from a parking lot 👍 The host are very accommodative , and it’s 4 min away from Watkins glen state park. enjoy the Pooh’s story….
- aautumn L.
Guide
Clute Park and Campground
Acceptable
The campground was in a good location minutes from Watkins Glen and many, many wineries. It was clean, the staff was polite and the bathrooms were fine. So basically it hits all the must haves. My only issue was that it is basically a parking lot with a whole lotta RV’s crammed into it. I guess I am more accustomed to staying at state parks. Would I stay there again, yes, but it wouldn’t be my first choice.
Paulina B.
Ranger
Sugar 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.
Christopher D.Scout
Ives Run
Well kept, and overall a great time
I booked site 144 at the primitive sites in Oct 2021. It was a great spot and happily, I was totally alone as no one had booked any of the sites near me( the closest people were about 400m away). The sites I was located on all had a small piece of water access which allowed you to sit by the water and the sites were relatively flat (although not perfect). I did not have to deal with any crowds since I was basically completely alone, but I imagine that during the peak season, you will be close by your neighbors as there is no separation between the campsites, just designated spots next to each other on a lawn. Located only about an hour away from Watkins glen, and made for a great home base during my visit to the finger lakes- away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist towns. Would def. Visit again.
- HHarry H.Ranger
Cayuga Lake State Park Campground
State Park in the Finger Lakes
Nice modern-esque camp site with great views of the lake. They have cabins but we tent camped. Tent sites are open. On site they have swimming, boat launch, and (I think) a playground. Lots of other places to hike in the area too, plus attractions like wine trails, breweries, quaint amusement parks.
Sara B.RangerCayuga Lake State Park Campground
Large Campground, Small Sites
Cayuga Lake State Park has a massive campground but most of the sites don't have water or electricity and are squeezed together in tiny loops. If you stay, I'd recommend the 800 or 1000 loops--the sites were much bigger in those areas. But we stayed in the 100 loop (appropriately named "Minnow) and ended up leaving early because our neighbors were just too close for comfort.
The lakefront area of the park was very nice and we enjoyed walking on the drive down in front of the lake. Plus, Seneca Falls is an adorable town and it was great to visit the Women's Rights National Historic Park and the homes of Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Harriett Tubman, while we were in the area!
To be fair to this park, we came directly from Watkins Glen State Park (which we loved) and our neighbors were rambunctious. We may have had a better opinion, had the circumstances been different. And in any event, we did really enjoy the area but decided to leave after 2 nights (rather than the 5 we had booked).
Oh and if you have a boat--the dock area of the park seemed really nice. We'd have loved to get out on the lake!
Mea H.Ranger
Watkins Glen State Park Campground
Love the location!
——REASONS I STAYED HERE——
The see Watkins Glen, of course! And go paddleboarding nearby.
—————BASIC FAQ—————
[Tent camping with a Subie]
Dump station? - Yes
Water fill or hookup? - Water fill at dump station but no water hookups. Water spigots are scattered throughout each loop.
Electricity? - Yes, some loops have it but not mine
Clean site? - Yes
Clean bathroom? - Yes
Flush toilet? - Yes
Showers? - Yes
Laundry? - No
Dish washing sink? - Yes, in the bathroom
—————PROS—————
→ The access to Watkins Glen! My site was in Loop D (Onondaga Village) which has a direct hiking trail to the trail along Watkins Glen! I highly recommend going early to beat the crowds. It’s peaceful and easier to enjoy and take photos.
→ Proximity to Seneca Lake! We went paddleboarding. We put in at a boat launch at the very southeastern corner of the lake near Seneca Lake Kayak. You can paddle down to Hector Falls and see it from the water.
→ You can drive to the many waterfalls nearby. I recommend Havana Glen Park for a short hike to the waterfall. Also, drive to Chequaga Falls.
—————TIP—————
→ There’s a power outlet in the bathroom. It was very common for people to charge phones while showering. Or leaving a battery in there to charge.
—————OVERALL—————
5-stars - Speaking for Loop D, of course. Clean site, clean bathroom with hot water, access to Watkins Glen, no issues while staying there.
—————INTERNET—————
Verizon via iPhone 12: 20 mbps down and 0.03 mbps up with 74 ms ping.
Rachel P.RangerWatkins Glen State Park Campground
Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen boasts one of New York’s most beautiful state parks! I last camped here in 2012 and absolutely loved hiking along the gorges. Also- the camping was next to perfect. Sites are decently sized and well secluded from one another.
in addition, the park is so well situated within the Finger Lakes and all the various wine trails! Made for a perfect girls weekend! Definitely recommend!
Elena C.Scout
Smith Memorial Park
Lovely campground
I have stayed in the tent sites three times now and I really enjoy this campground. Nice clean sites with picnic tables that are in good shape. It is just a short walk to the beautiful lake front. Bathrooms are a little far from the tent sites with only one shower. This can be tough since there are a lot of seasonal sites for campers and RVs across from the tent sites using the same facilities. Very nice little beach for swimming and the perfect spot for going to the wineries. Sites are not very private but I have encountered very nice neighbors every time so it hasn't been an issue.
Ben W.ScoutCayuga Lake State Park Campground
Quiet, Beautiful, Something for Everyone
We have stayed in the 300 Loop and 400 loop on different occasions. These are non-electric tent camping loops, bathrooms are a short walk from spots, if you have kids there is a playground by the more open spots in the inner part of each loop or you can stay in the more secluded outer ring of the loops. We loved these spots and for anyone camping in the Finger Lakes region I would definitely recommend Cayuga Lake State Park. They have cabin and RV spots as well but we prefer tent camping.
Matt A.
Traveler
Fillmore Glen State Park Campground
Beautiful park
Tent camping is $15/ night. You can get in to the park for free between 7 and 10pm though.
- EEva L.Scout
Back-Achers Campsites
Great site!
Have private tent site, bathroom is small but super clean!
- Katye M.Scout
Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground
Family Friendly Camping
I chose this campground because the photos of the pool/splash pad looked fun. It turns out the tent site we had was the most wooded and cozy site we have camped in all year. So much room for tents/hammocks. Trees galore. The tent sites were right behind the athletic field where they did activities the weekend we were there (bounce house). The restrooms were fantastic too, the buildings held two complete rooms with a toilet sink and shower in each. It’s the only shower camping this year my 4yr old wasn’t afraid of because we had the whole room to ourselves.
- AAndy B.Guide
Sugar Creek Glen Campground
Amazing for tents
Tent sites along a confluence of creeks; ankle deep clear water. Amazing miles of upstream hiking, water holes, rope swings, etc.
Perfect for little kids and adults.
Short drive from Letchwood State Park
- JJustin S.Guide
Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground
Buttermilk Falls
Picturesque Finger Lakes state park with a day’s worth of hiking trails on site. The campground is wooded and lovely but the tent sites don’t have views of the falls or anything, couldn’t hear water at night. Deer outside the tent, wildflowers through summer, great leaves in fall.
- Taylor C.Scout
Back-Achers Campsites
Amazing location and sites
We stayed in a tent site for the weekend and loved it! The camp site was set back in the trees with a ton of privacy. Very clean facilities with hot water. We will definitely be back to Back Achers.
- mmegScout
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.
Ashley F.
LegendPooh's Corner
Perfect spot for a quick getaway!
Ashley here with The Dyrt. Let's give a warm welcome to your hosts Sheryl & Matt! This is the perfect place to car or tent camp. Enjoy a private fire-pit and dive into Lake Seneca! Only a 4 min drive from Watkins Glenn. This place has it all. Lots of sites to choose from, some even have hammocks! Dog friendly. Check them out and leave them some love!
Ruth K.Traveler
Taughannock Falls State Park Campground
Lovely Woods and waterfall
Seneca Lake and Taughannock Gorge Trail with waterfall is beautiful. However, swimming in lake is mediocre, and lots of steps on the hike. Only 2 showers in each bathhouse and low-end. Toilets are old and a bit dirty. Tent sites are
spacious and somewhat private. Electric sites are small and close to neighbor.
Kevin M.ScoutCayuga Lake State Park Campground
Tent sites were spacious, some privacy
The tent sites on the west camp were roomy and reasonably private, but there weren't many water locations and no electric on that side of the park. The facilities were about as nice as you can expect at a state run campground. We're already planning to go back next year for more nights.
- SStephanie C.Scout
Stony Brook State Park Campground
Mother Nature’s best
Beautiful waterfalls, intermediate hiking.
Tent sites are fairly large so you have plenty of room. Bathrooms are centrally located in each loop, nice playground for kids. Dog friendly too.
only downfall, no one took the State bid to open the camp store so you need to leave the park for wood/ice.
- HHarry H.Ranger
Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground
Lovely falls close to Ithaca
Been here in all the seasons, each is beautiful. Campgrounds are wooded. Pretty basic facilities, nice though. None of the tent sites have exceptional views but you’re a short walk from the creek/gorges. Reserve ahead of time in summer. Lots of woods, wildlife here and in the many other state parks close by to keep all ages occupied.
- JJonathan G.Traveler
Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill
Clean & convenient
Great campground for kids, events, and hiking. Plenty of room on each site for whatever you need. Multiple playgrounds which are clean & well maintained. Only downside is that the RV sites don’t have much shade but the tent sites do. Also make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level.
- JJenise P.Traveler
Canandaigua-Rochester KOA
Fun for families
I haven't stayed in a KOA before because they have so many amenities I don't use. I'm a birder and my tent site here is next to a little grove of trees where I counted 12 species of birds this morning. The bathrooms are very clean and the women working the desk could not have been more helpful.
- Sarah C.Traveler
Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill
Wonderful!
Great secluded tent camping (recomend numbers 7 and 8), cabins are new and ample beds and space. Camper camping is close to everything, but less privacy. Numerous pavilions that are wonderful for parties or weddings. Stunning overlook that is breathtaking (also great for weddings). Hiking, bike trails, fishing pond, playground, open fields for sports, much more!!! Great for photo shoots, weekend stress getaways etc. I live close by and visit a few times a month.
- AAndrew M.Guide
Watkins Glen / Corning KOA
Great Camp to make as base camp for adventures in the area
Watkins Glen/ Corning KOA this is a nice KOA in the Watkins Glen area. Our site was a full hookup site. Campground offered clean sites with gravel drives and grass areas between them. Offers your typical KOA amenities with a huge outdoor pool, indoor pool and hot tub, water slide, rock wall structure, zip line and mini golf which were part of our site fee price.
Things to do in the area Watkins Glen State park(hiking, biking and scenic views of the falls and gorge), Seneca Lake(one of the finger lakes), Watkins Glen International Speedway, Corning Glass Museum(Corning, NY), Montour Falls(Montour Falls, NY), Sunset View Creamery(Farm Tour and Store).
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 13 tent camping locations near Watkins Glen, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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