Camping options near Waverly, New York include both established campgrounds and primitive sites in the northern tier of Pennsylvania and southern New York. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 750 to 1,400 feet and a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F during camping season with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, particularly in July.
What to do
Hiking through gorges and waterfalls: At Watkins Glen State Park Campground, the Gorge Trail offers a moderate difficulty hike past 19 waterfalls with walkways between steps. "The gorge trail is a MUST. Definitely go check this campsite out!" notes Laura L. The interconnected trail system includes elevated views on the Rim Trail.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds in the region provide fishing access. At Hickories Park Campground, sites are available right on the river. One visitor mentioned, "I pulled in at about 6pm mid week, the ranger station was closed. Drove around & found tent site 79 open, it's next to the river. I was able to pull directly into the camp site."
Swimming options: Natural swimming areas provide relief during summer months. "Beautiful camp site with electricity. Close to lots of trails," explains James at Watkins Glen, where the swimming pool opens in late June. Taughannock Falls State Park offers swimming in Cayuga Lake with depths to 12 feet and a jumping dock.
What campers like
Yurt camping near Waverly, New York: Newtown Battlefield State Park Campground offers yurt accommodations as an alternative to traditional tent or RV camping. "Beautiful and great hiking! We stayed a week and absolutely loved it! Great hiking to waterfalls, beautiful campgrounds and a large playground," notes Jennifer D. about the park facilities.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention clean bathrooms and showers. At Robert H. Treman State Park Campground, a visitor reported, "The bathrooms were clean, with multiple free, hot showers. I believe there were separate dishwashing sinks inside the restrooms." These details matter during longer stays in the Finger Lakes region.
Peaceful settings: Quiet campgrounds allow for relaxation in natural surroundings. "This was a total surprise when we stayed at this site. We thought we were going to go to another park to camp but this one was so nice we ended up staying... Sites were really flat with some tree coverage for shade," explains Kelly J. about Robert H. Treman State Park.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate on first-come, first-served basis. At Hickories Park, a camper noted, "It is a very nice open area to camp in. It is a first come first serve campground." During summer weekends, sites fill quickly at popular parks.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely across the region. At Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground, visitors mention "very very little cell reception and only wifi if you pay for it," creating a true disconnected experience.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have mineral-rich water systems. "My only bad comment I would make is there water is very smelly and brown. I actually bought a dual stage water filter and change it every two weeks," notes a visitor at Ferenbaugh Campground. Bringing bottled water is recommended for drinking.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Family-focused campgrounds offer recreational facilities. "The tent sites were right behind the athletic field where they did activities the weekend we were there (bounce house)," explains Katye M. about Pine Cradle Lake. The campground also features a heated swimming pool and splash pad ideal for children.
Private bathroom options: Watkins Glen / Corning KOA provides bathroom amenities suitable for families with young children. Regarding the shower facilities at Pine Cradle Lake, one visitor mentioned, "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."
Safety considerations: Many campgrounds are gated with regular staff patrols. "The campground is pretty quiet during the week, but fills up on weekends with guests using own (or renting) golf carts," notes a reviewer at Pine Cradle Lake, mentioning that kids can safely ride bikes throughout the property.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should check hookup locations before reserving. At Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, an RVer advised, "Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you'll need extra long cords."
Leveling requirements: Terrain varies across campgrounds, affecting setup. "The sites are nice and flat and the grounds have lots of good amenities, restrooms with showers. Good drinking water, tables and fire rings," notes Elliott B. about Taughannock Falls State Park. At Robert H. Treman, a visitor cautioned that "Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the Waverly area operate from May through October. RVers seeking yurt accommodations for early or late season camping should contact parks directly about availability, as most standard yurts near Waverly, New York lack heating for cold weather camping.
