The Finger Lakes region surrounds West Danby, New York with rolling hills ranging from 800 to 2,000 feet in elevation. Camping opportunities span across multiple counties with varying terrain and accessibility. Winter camping options are limited as temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 30-minute drive to Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground, where the hiking trails accommodate various skill levels. "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," notes one visitor. The park features multiple trails connecting upper and lower entrances.
Lake swimming: 45 minutes north at Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, which offers swimming in Cayuga Lake. "The campground is very walkable to the swimming area, which goes to 12 feet deep and has a dock to jump off of," reports a camper. Gorge trails provide moderate hikes with waterfall views.
Wine tasting: Walking distance from Finger Lakes RV Resort in Hector. "They are bookended by two wineries with walking paths from the campground," reports a reviewer. "Walking paths from the campground to two different wineries" provide direct access to regional wine tourism without driving.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Park Station Campground maintains above-average sanitation. "Beautifully kept and the staff is absolutely amazing. The fishing is great, the amenities are very clean and there is not a bad site in the park," reports one visitor. The smaller size contributes to consistent maintenance.
Family recreation: Park Station Campground offers multiple activities. "This campground has a nice small beach area with sand for the kids. Water is very shallow however, so not the best place for swimming for older kids and there is no pool, but there are life guards and plenty of depth for young kids," notes a camper. The playground was recently updated.
Privacy between sites: The terrain at several campgrounds creates natural separation. "The sites are very large and spread out. Being a newer campground, the trees are small, but that did not take away from the experience," mentions a visitor at Finger Lakes RV Resort. Site spacing reduces noise between neighboring campers.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The Finger Lakes region experiences significant temperature variations. "Lots of hiking trails around the decent sized lake as well as fishing. Multiple picnic areas scattered throughout allow you many options of scenery/shade/convenience while you cook and eat," reports a Park Station visitor, noting the importance of shade options during summer months.
Reservation timing: Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground fills quickly during peak seasons. "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," advises one camper. Most campgrounds open May through October with limited off-season availability.
Terrain challenges: Gravel pads are common at most RV parks in the region. "The sites are level and spacious. Still a new campground so we can't wait to return once all the landscaping has grown in," notes a visitor at Finger Lakes RV Resort. Tent campers should pack air mattresses for gravel sites.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Choose based on age at regional parks. "There is a nice pool and playgrounds. It's close to downtown Watkins Glen with lots of restaurants," reports a camper about Watkins Glen/Corning KOA. The campground offers multiple recreation facilities beyond swimming.
Playground access: Compare facilities before booking. "There is a newer and good sized playground in the day visit area," notes a Park Station visitor. Families with children under 10 will find better facilities at larger campgrounds with designated play areas.
Safety considerations: Gorge areas require supervision. "The hiking to the waterfall is very manageable," mentions a Taughannock Falls visitor. Trails vary in difficulty, with some sections requiring climbing stairs or traversing uneven terrain.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Request outer loops when possible. "The campsites are very large and spread out," notes a visitor at Finger Lakes RV Resort. Corner sites typically offer more room for slideouts and outdoor living space.
Utility connections: Check hookup locations before arrival at Pine Valley RV Park. "Lakeside sites are spacious and reasonably priced. The owners are always accessible," reports a long-time visitor. Water pressure varies significantly between campgrounds in the region.
Road conditions: Interior campground roads vary widely in quality. "Clean campground. A lot of outdoor features for kids," reports a Watkins Glen/Corning KOA visitor, though other reviewers mention the variable road conditions within campgrounds.
