Tioga County's terrain near Troy encompasses rolling hills and pine forests at elevations between 1,200 and 2,000 feet. The region receives significant snowfall from December through February, with summer temperatures averaging in the 70s. Cabin camping options near Troy include year-round heated accommodations with sites often surrounded by deciduous and coniferous trees.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Watkins Glen State Park offers multiple trails beyond the main gorge attraction. "There are several more waterfalls nearby that are very easy hikes. Our favorite was Eagles Cliffs Falls. I have a 7 year old son and he enjoyed every second of this, there is a lot to see and a lot of water to play in!" notes a visitor to Watkins Glen State Park Campground.
Water activities: The lake at Tompkins Campground provides swimming and boating options from May through September. "There is a beach for swimming, marina for boating and the sites are huge and grassy," reports a regular camper at Tompkins.
Educational programming: Pioneer Campground hosts activities for families on holiday weekends. A visitor shared: "They had a really cool walk through 'haunted woods' that was a lot of fun. When we were there last weekend John was telling us about other events they are planning to do as well."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Sites at Watkins Glen / Corning KOA offer more space than typical commercial campgrounds. "We got lucky and got a good site with shade but most sites are tiny and wide open. The full hookups were good, there was a concrete pad and nice fire ring in our site," explains a camper at Watkins Glen / Corning KOA.
Stargazing conditions: Pioneer Campground's remote location creates excellent night sky viewing. "Night time is especially beautiful, you can see tons of stars on a clear night. Everyone there, owners, employees, and campers alike are pleasant," notes a visitor to Pioneer Campground.
Fishing access: Hills Creek State Park offers catch-and-release fishing. A seasonal camper explained, "You could get on the trail easily and hike the lake that tempted you from the cabin as the sun glistened off the water. During the hike you would pass a red pine plantation, a reminder of the Civilian Conservation Corps."
What you should know
Weather conditions: Glamping near Troy experiences significant temperature fluctuations across seasons, with higher elevation sites seeing cooler nights even in summer.
Water quality: Some campgrounds in the region have water quality issues. A visitor to Ferenbaugh noted: "The only bad comment I would make is their water is very smelly and brown. I actually bought a dual stage water filter and change it every two weeks."
Reservation timing: Ricketts Glen State Park campground fills quickly during summer and fall foliage seasons. "The campground was about ¾ full and there was often a wait in the bathroom. Showers looked reasonable but I did not use them," shared a visitor to Ricketts Glen State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Off-season visits: Seasonal glamping options near Troy often offer quieter experiences with fewer crowds in April, May, September and October.
Playground access: For families prioritizing play structures, consider Bucktail Camping Resort. A family noted: "Very clean facilities, lots for kids to do despite Covid. We always get a site on the outside of the main circle by the tower slide. There's lots of shade and optimum view of both playgrounds to keep an eye on the kiddos."
Educational activities: Nature programs offered at Hills Creek State Park engage both children and adults. A camper mentioned: "The nature talks were really fun for the kids and interesting for the adults."
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: Some glamping sites near Troy have challenging access roads. A visitor to Pine Cradle Lake explained: "The campground is located at the top of some beautiful and scenic driving through farmland in Pennsylvania and you will be 30 minutes from anything like shopping or small town amenities."
Leveling requirements: Sites at Newtown Battlefield require proper equipment. A visitor to Newtown Battlefield State Park Campground shared: "Camp sites are tidy and well mowed, a trash can at each site, nice combo grill/fire ring. Got a black leg tick, so heed the signage and check for them. Bathroom/showers were well cared for."
Dump station congestion: During busy weekends, plan for potential waiting time at single-station facilities. "There is only one dump station, but the owner John was going around pumping people out Sunday morning when the line to the dump station was long."
