Camping cabins near West Danby, New York provide shelter in the southern Finger Lakes region where elevations range from 800 to 1,200 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, while summer highs typically reach the mid-80s. Most cabin camping facilities remain open from April through October, closing during winter months when snow accumulation makes access difficult.
What to do
Swim beneath waterfalls: Robert H. Treman State Park Campground features a natural swimming area at the base of a waterfall. "The bathrooms are clean, with multiple free, hot showers. I believe there were separate dishwashing sinks inside the restrooms," notes a camper who enjoyed the facilities at Robert H. Treman State Park Campground.
Hike the gorge trails: The Finger Lakes region contains numerous gorges with waterfall views. "Watkins Glen was absolutely beautiful. The sites are quite wooded with plenty of space in between. The gorge trail is a MUST," writes one visitor to Watkins Glen State Park Campground.
Tour local wineries: The Seneca Lake Wine Trail runs through the area, offering tastings at numerous vineyards. "The Seneca Lake Wine Trail runs right through this area and makes for a fun diversion to your hiking trip!" mentions one camper who visited Watkins Glen.
What campers like
Swimming in natural settings: Fillmore Glen State Park provides a spring-fed swimming pool. "There is a huge new playground for the kids and lots of area to walk around the loops if you don't want to hike the gorge trail," reports a visitor to Fillmore Glen State Park Campground.
Waterfront access: Many campgrounds offer lake access for boating and fishing. "Seneca lake is a short drive away for great fishing, kayaking and swimming. Also a short Drive away is a Farm Sanctuary that my son very much enjoyed," shares one family who stayed at Watkins Glen.
Quiet weekday camping: Sites at Taughannock Falls State Park Campground provide a more peaceful experience midweek. "The upper part of the campground is pretty private, while the lower end near the entrance/exit is more open. There is a small playground for kids. The campground is very walkable to the swimming area, which goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of," explains a camper who stayed at site 42.
What you should know
Cabin availability varies seasonally: Most state park cabins open from April through October. "Watkins Glen Watkins Glen is beautiful and scenic. If you enjoy hiking and scenery this is the place for you. I would describe the hikes as moderately difficult," notes a camper who found the timing important.
Swimming areas may close: Weather can affect facility operations. "The swimming area was closed for the season by the time we arrived. I would definitely return," comments a September visitor to Robert H. Treman.
Electricity charges for extended stays: Some private campgrounds implement additional fees. "They also charge for electricity on any stays one week or longer which we had not encountered previously at campgrounds where we have stayed," reports a visitor to Pinecreek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Several parks maintain play areas for children. "Campground was nice! The bathhouses are clean and well lit at night. This is definitely a large family area," observes a regular visitor to Watkins Glen.
Consider swimming options: Natural swimming areas provide unique experiences. "Very clean campsites, bathrooms in some loops nicer than others. Kids loved the park and swimming in the waterfall beach," reports a family who stayed at Fillmore Glen State Park.
Check dog policies: Not all trails permit dogs. "Dogs are allowed but they are not allowed on the gorge trail. I'm ok with this I just wish I had know before we got there," explains a visitor to Taughannock Falls.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have limited level sites. "Beautiful park. Electric sites are not the best though. Rocky and unlevel. Not made for large campers," cautions an RVer who stayed at Robert H. Treman.
Road conditions vary: Access roads may present challenges. "The campground is cute and quiet. Staff is friendly and helpful. My only complaint is the condition of the roads. They are in dire need of grading and new gravel. Be careful!" warns a visitor to Watkins Glen / Corning KOA.
Hookup placement: Check utility locations when booking. "We stayed in a 30 ft. motorhome, and the roads within the campground were kind of tight to get through with trees and curves," reports an RVer who visited Watkins Glen.
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