Camping on Seneca Lake, New York: Best Seneca Lake Campgrounds 2024

United States
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New York
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Seneca Lake

96% (4248 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Seneca Lake

Star Hosts in Seneca Lake

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(86)

Camp Whitman on Seneca Lake

16 sites · Lodging117 acres · Penn Yan, NY

Camp Whitman on Seneca Lake is a residential summer camp operated by the Presbytery of Geneva in partnership with the Presbytery of Genesee Valley. The camp has been in operation since 1954. Prior to that the land was a working farm.The property hosts a summer camp each summer, but the cottages and cabins are available for group and family rentals outside of this timeframe. The property is marked by Seneca Lake on its eastern boundary, Punnett's Pond on its western boundary and streams and ravines on its north and south boundaries. The property additionally features a swimming pool, hiking trails, a small organic garden and farm animals and optional activities like archery, boating and more for guests at certain points in the season.

A-Frame In The Woods

1 site · Lodging12 acres · Dundee, NY

Welcome to your serene primitive campsite, perfect for a family getaway and nestled right on the Finger Lakes wine trail. Enjoy the tranquility of this off-grid experience with a view of Seneca Lake from the hill. Key Features: -Primitive Camping Experience: Embrace the simplicity of off-grid living with no running water, detached outhouse for your convenience, and no electric amenities. This is a true escape into nature. -Cozy A-Frame Shelter: Find comfort in the contained A-frame shelter, featuring a queen-size loft mattress and a pullout couch. Bring your own bedding to make your stay even more comfortable. -Wood Stove and Campfire: Warm up inside by the wood stove or gather around a cozy campfire outside. It's the perfect way to create lasting memories with your loved ones. -Scenic Surroundings: Take in the beauty of the Finger Lakes wine trail and the stunning view of Seneca Lake from the hill. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the peaceful surroundings and the opportunity to reconnect with the outdoors. -4-wheel drive vehicle recommended if you want to drive straight to the A-frame. There is the option to park in the parking lot by the road and walk a couple hundred yards across the field to the A-frame. This primitive campsite invites you to step away from the hustle and bustle, allowing you to unwind, bond with family, and savor the simplicity of nature. Bring your own camping supplies, cooking materials, and a sense of adventure for an unforgettable off-grid camping experience.

Cool Wooded Retreat

1 site · RV5 acres · Geneva, NY

We enjoy using private hipcamps when we travel so we decided to offer our full rv hookup for other rvers.Learn more about this land:This is a full RV hookup in a small grove of trees ,while there's not a whole lot to do on this property, its a great place to stop for the night or a place to park your RV while visiting the surrounding area. Enjoy your stay at our little wooded retreat in the country! There are great hiking/biking trails within 10 min, such as Outlet trails in Penn Yan, Grimes Glen in Naples.

Minglewood Camp

2 sites · Lodging90 acres · Trumansburg, NY

Both my husband Ben, and I are natives to the Fingerlakes region. We are nature lovers and enjoy , (Love) camping. When this property became available to us we couldn't help visualize our dream camp spot. We decided to make a go for it. The frontage of the property is a small mobile home park which truly reminded us of a quaint camp community we had just visited in Canada. After exploring the 90 acres of hardwood forest beyond the park we realized an eco friendly camp ground was exactly what the property needed. Ben sourced only local wood for the cabin and used all natural building materials. No plastic anywhere! our hope is that people who need a break from the hustle of daily life can visit Minglewwood and enjoy some serenity.Our sweet little cabin is about a quarter mile into the forest. You will have total privacy. The cabin sits beside a little creek which runs till late summer depending on rain. There is 90 acres of beautiful forest to explore. The stunning Finger lakes are only a short drive as well as the impressive Gorges that surround the area. You will find no shortage of natural beauty when you visit Minglewood camp.

Waterfall Creek

6 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Millport, NY

This is a beautiful piece of property located in the heart of the Finger Lakes and Wine Country of NY. It features a stunning spring fed waterfall and nice forest land. Very close to town but also very secluded and private. Great place to unwind and relax from our everyday lives. It is situated however in a gully next to a creek and waterfall so it is susceptible to heavy rains. It is recommended to at least have an AWD vehicle if rainy. I can usually help campers with getting to the site in my side X side if you need to park up at the pasture. Please order enough wood initially as I have found I spend a lot of time delivering extra wood to campers. It seems as if you will typically go through 2 bundles per night on average. Also I supply a contractor size garbage bag to you if you choose garbage removal. It is also a good idea to text me when you have a solid ETA so I can be here to take you to the site. I want to mention that the two sites closest to the waterfall are a slight hike in and can only accommodate up to 4 person tents so if a bigger group or vehicle camping you will be placed at another site. Hope to see you soon. Ken

12 top campgrounds in Seneca Lake

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(5)

A-Frame In The Woods

1 site · Lodging12 acres · Dundee, NY

Welcome to your serene primitive campsite, perfect for a family getaway and nestled right on the Finger Lakes wine trail. Enjoy the tranquility of this off-grid experience with a view of Seneca Lake from the hill. Key Features: -Primitive Camping Experience: Embrace the simplicity of off-grid living with no running water, detached outhouse for your convenience, and no electric amenities. This is a true escape into nature. -Cozy A-Frame Shelter: Find comfort in the contained A-frame shelter, featuring a queen-size loft mattress and a pullout couch. Bring your own bedding to make your stay even more comfortable. -Wood Stove and Campfire: Warm up inside by the wood stove or gather around a cozy campfire outside. It's the perfect way to create lasting memories with your loved ones. -Scenic Surroundings: Take in the beauty of the Finger Lakes wine trail and the stunning view of Seneca Lake from the hill. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the peaceful surroundings and the opportunity to reconnect with the outdoors. -4-wheel drive vehicle recommended if you want to drive straight to the A-frame. There is the option to park in the parking lot by the road and walk a couple hundred yards across the field to the A-frame. This primitive campsite invites you to step away from the hustle and bustle, allowing you to unwind, bond with family, and savor the simplicity of nature. Bring your own camping supplies, cooking materials, and a sense of adventure for an unforgettable off-grid camping experience.

Waterfall Creek

6 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Millport, NY

This is a beautiful piece of property located in the heart of the Finger Lakes and Wine Country of NY. It features a stunning spring fed waterfall and nice forest land. Very close to town but also very secluded and private. Great place to unwind and relax from our everyday lives. It is situated however in a gully next to a creek and waterfall so it is susceptible to heavy rains. It is recommended to at least have an AWD vehicle if rainy. I can usually help campers with getting to the site in my side X side if you need to park up at the pasture. Please order enough wood initially as I have found I spend a lot of time delivering extra wood to campers. It seems as if you will typically go through 2 bundles per night on average. Also I supply a contractor size garbage bag to you if you choose garbage removal. It is also a good idea to text me when you have a solid ETA so I can be here to take you to the site. I want to mention that the two sites closest to the waterfall are a slight hike in and can only accommodate up to 4 person tents so if a bigger group or vehicle camping you will be placed at another site. Hope to see you soon. Ken

Camp Whitman on Seneca Lake

16 sites · Lodging117 acres · Penn Yan, NY

Camp Whitman on Seneca Lake is a residential summer camp operated by the Presbytery of Geneva in partnership with the Presbytery of Genesee Valley. The camp has been in operation since 1954. Prior to that the land was a working farm.The property hosts a summer camp each summer, but the cottages and cabins are available for group and family rentals outside of this timeframe. The property is marked by Seneca Lake on its eastern boundary, Punnett's Pond on its western boundary and streams and ravines on its north and south boundaries. The property additionally features a swimming pool, hiking trails, a small organic garden and farm animals and optional activities like archery, boating and more for guests at certain points in the season.

Cool Wooded Retreat

1 site · RV5 acres · Geneva, NY

We enjoy using private hipcamps when we travel so we decided to offer our full rv hookup for other rvers.Learn more about this land:This is a full RV hookup in a small grove of trees ,while there's not a whole lot to do on this property, its a great place to stop for the night or a place to park your RV while visiting the surrounding area. Enjoy your stay at our little wooded retreat in the country! There are great hiking/biking trails within 10 min, such as Outlet trails in Penn Yan, Grimes Glen in Naples.

Minglewood Camp

2 sites · Lodging90 acres · Trumansburg, NY

Both my husband Ben, and I are natives to the Fingerlakes region. We are nature lovers and enjoy , (Love) camping. When this property became available to us we couldn't help visualize our dream camp spot. We decided to make a go for it. The frontage of the property is a small mobile home park which truly reminded us of a quaint camp community we had just visited in Canada. After exploring the 90 acres of hardwood forest beyond the park we realized an eco friendly camp ground was exactly what the property needed. Ben sourced only local wood for the cabin and used all natural building materials. No plastic anywhere! our hope is that people who need a break from the hustle of daily life can visit Minglewwood and enjoy some serenity.Our sweet little cabin is about a quarter mile into the forest. You will have total privacy. The cabin sits beside a little creek which runs till late summer depending on rain. There is 90 acres of beautiful forest to explore. The stunning Finger lakes are only a short drive as well as the impressive Gorges that surround the area. You will find no shortage of natural beauty when you visit Minglewood camp.

Pooh’s Corner

9 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Watkins Glen, NY

WELCOME to Pooh's Corner- We hope you enjoy Pooh's Corner as much as we enjoy having all of you great Hipcampers sharing our beautiful Fingerlakes Region with us. Pooh's Corner lies in a rural area just 1.5 miles from Watkins Glen. (3315 County Road 28, Watkins Glen, NY 14891). We took great care to make sure each campsite is PRIVATE (parking on-site*) and the trails are easily navigable. Our 'Welcome Shed' is equipped with a compost toilet, local information, (newly added) Hot Water Station, first-aid kit, charging station, bug spray etc. and is located in a safe, well lit, open area on the property. Each site is equipped with a fire pit and comfortable seating with tables, chairs, and/or picnic tables and tripod grills. Firewood is available on a donation basis. There are State Parks and places to hike one of the many gorges around beautiful Seneca Lake and surrounding area. Take a tour of the many wineries and breweries which our region is famous for. Enjoy hiking, swimming, biking, kayaking, and many historical sites to see. Our reviews tell it all. We know you'll love it here :) *PLEASE NOTE: Our sites are custom made for TENT or CAR camping. Because we have "parking on-site", Large RVs, Campers (over 16'), and any 5th-wheel campers are very difficult to place since there are no easy ways to back in or turn around. We highly recommend "Havana Glen State Park" (same general area) for those types of camping units.

99%

(144)

The Green Heron

7 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Ithaca, NY

My property is about 70 acres of wildflower meadows, ponds, organic grain farm and forest located about 10 minutes northwest of Ithaca and 20 min from Finger Lakes wine trails. Enjoy walking along the dirt road and mown trails throughout the property, wild raspberry and blackberry picking, bird and wildlife watching and some incredible sunsets! The campsites are located well off the main road for privacy and seclusion. A convenience store and gas station are located about a mile down the road. This is a peaceful and beautiful place to stay.

96%

(51)

Yost Ridge in the Finger Lakes

2 sites · RVs1 acre · Waterloo, NY

This peaceful, private RV camp site has ... - FULL HOOKUP site, with 110, 30 amp and 50 amp electrical outlets - WIFI - POTABLE WELL WATER (65psi) - SEPTIC TANK, - LARGE DRIVEWAY ENTRANCE - LEVEL PARKING Park however it suits you for getting the best views. It's easy to back in or out with big rigs and trailers from the quiet road . The driveway entrance is extra large. There's plenty of space for a boat, trailer or second vehicle. This is a perfect place for fishing, kayaking, bicycling, kite flying, hiking, wine trailing or relaxing at the well-maintained fire pit in the Adirondack chairs. (Local firewood is for sale in the area.) Sunrise and sunset are spectacular here and stargazers will be delighted with the expansive views. Amish carriages and work horses are common sites. YOST RIDGE is located between Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lakes ("Trout fishing capital of the World") in the Finger Lakes wine country, and is just a short distance from numerous wineries; Swedish Hill, Knapp Vineyards, Three Brothers, Ventosa, Buttonwood Grove, and Hosmer wineries. Also located nearby are the National Women's Hall of Fame, and many state parks, including Cayuga Lake State Park, Seneca Lake State Park, Taughannock Falls State Park, Watkins Glen State Park, Buttermilk Fall State Park, within just a few minutes of this site.

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(529)

Hawk Meadow Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents68 acres · Trumansburg, NY

Hawk Meadow Farm is a 68 acre working woodland mushroom farm. Our camp sites are spacious and private. A generous amount of firewood is included with your booking! All of our sites can be accessed by car. Our farm specializes in log-grown woodland mushrooms such as shiitake, lion's mane, turkey tail and oyster. We use the mushrooms to make medicinal tinctures and sell fresh or dried to local area restaurants. Visit our farm store while you are here! We usually have fresh shiitakes available for purchase as well as our other farm products. We follow organic methods and sustainable practices in all that we do, and our farm is inspired by the principles of permaculture. We have a great love and respect for the natural world and strive to work in harmony with nature not only in all our agricultural practices, but in just living our lives. Stay with us, reconnect to nature and recharge your spirit!

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Off Grid cabin near Watkins Glen,NY

3 sites · Lodging15 acres · Rock Stream, NY

Get away from it all when you stay under the stars. This is a beautiful off grid cabin located out in nature. It’s a one room cabin with two queen sized beds. There is no running water, however a portable restroom is at the cabin. 12V lighting & USB ports for charging phones. Enjoy the scenic views from the outdoor fire pit or on the screened in porch! Bring your own food and drinks. Clean bedding is provided. If you want to venture out for a fun off grid experience come check us out!!

93%

(22)

Crazy Goats Farm Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Hall, NY

The property is 5 miles west from downtown Geneva, and 10 miles east from Canandaigua. Sits on 6.8 acres, right on the country side, but very close to everything. We have a small hobby farm with some very cute and friendly goats, chickens, ducks and a mini pig. We also run an outdoor grill Friday & Saturday. We have some picnic tables, hammocks and a fire pit for our guests. We offer breakfast. We are proud of our cooking, hard-work and hospitality.

96%

(42)

The Spotted Sandpiper

5 sites · Lodging4 acres · Trumansburg, NY

The land that became our property was once owned by the King family. (i.e. Kingtown Beach Road) In the 1970s it was a marina developed by the Fulton family, with 4 small tourist cabins on the hillside above the water. Two more families loved and cared for the property before our family purchased it in late 2018. We're are delighted to share the beauty of Cayuga Lake with guests from all over the United States and the world, and hope to welcome you soon to The Spotted Sandpiper! Situated on 4 acres and with 400’ of secluded frontage on Cayuga Lake, The Spotted Sandpiper is the largest private lakefront vacation rental property in the Ithaca area. We’re nestled at the end of a private road, but only 7 minutes from Trumansburg, 3 1⁄2 miles from Taughannock State Park, and 20 minutes from Ithaca. We're conveniently located along the Cayuga Wine Trail!We are perfect for family reunions and wedding party rentals, families traveling together or friends looking for a week or weekend away! Our beach is an ideal swimming spot for children because of its gentle slope and clear waters.

Available this weekend

100%

(6)

A-Frame In The Woods

1 site · Lodging12 acres · Dundee, NY

Welcome to your serene primitive campsite, perfect for a family getaway and nestled right on the Finger Lakes wine trail. Enjoy the tranquility of this off-grid experience with a view of Seneca Lake from the hill. Key Features: -Primitive Camping Experience: Embrace the simplicity of off-grid living with no running water, detached outhouse for your convenience, and no electric amenities. This is a true escape into nature. -Cozy A-Frame Shelter: Find comfort in the contained A-frame shelter, featuring a queen-size loft mattress and a pullout couch. Bring your own bedding to make your stay even more comfortable. -Wood Stove and Campfire: Warm up inside by the wood stove or gather around a cozy campfire outside. It's the perfect way to create lasting memories with your loved ones. -Scenic Surroundings: Take in the beauty of the Finger Lakes wine trail and the stunning view of Seneca Lake from the hill. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the peaceful surroundings and the opportunity to reconnect with the outdoors. -4-wheel drive vehicle recommended if you want to drive straight to the A-frame. There is the option to park in the parking lot by the road and walk a couple hundred yards across the field to the A-frame. This primitive campsite invites you to step away from the hustle and bustle, allowing you to unwind, bond with family, and savor the simplicity of nature. Bring your own camping supplies, cooking materials, and a sense of adventure for an unforgettable off-grid camping experience.

Off Grid cabin near Watkins Glen,NY

3 sites · Lodging15 acres · Rock Stream, NY

Get away from it all when you stay under the stars. This is a beautiful off grid cabin located out in nature. It’s a one room cabin with two queen sized beds. There is no running water, however a portable restroom is at the cabin. 12V lighting & USB ports for charging phones. Enjoy the scenic views from the outdoor fire pit or on the screened in porch! Bring your own food and drinks. Clean bedding is provided. If you want to venture out for a fun off grid experience come check us out!!

Yost Ridge in the Finger Lakes

2 sites · RVs1 acre · Waterloo, NY

This peaceful, private RV camp site has ... - FULL HOOKUP site, with 110, 30 amp and 50 amp electrical outlets - WIFI - POTABLE WELL WATER (65psi) - SEPTIC TANK, - LARGE DRIVEWAY ENTRANCE - LEVEL PARKING Park however it suits you for getting the best views. It's easy to back in or out with big rigs and trailers from the quiet road . The driveway entrance is extra large. There's plenty of space for a boat, trailer or second vehicle. This is a perfect place for fishing, kayaking, bicycling, kite flying, hiking, wine trailing or relaxing at the well-maintained fire pit in the Adirondack chairs. (Local firewood is for sale in the area.) Sunrise and sunset are spectacular here and stargazers will be delighted with the expansive views. Amish carriages and work horses are common sites. YOST RIDGE is located between Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lakes ("Trout fishing capital of the World") in the Finger Lakes wine country, and is just a short distance from numerous wineries; Swedish Hill, Knapp Vineyards, Three Brothers, Ventosa, Buttonwood Grove, and Hosmer wineries. Also located nearby are the National Women's Hall of Fame, and many state parks, including Cayuga Lake State Park, Seneca Lake State Park, Taughannock Falls State Park, Watkins Glen State Park, Buttermilk Fall State Park, within just a few minutes of this site.

Crazy Goats Farm Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Hall, NY

The property is 5 miles west from downtown Geneva, and 10 miles east from Canandaigua. Sits on 6.8 acres, right on the country side, but very close to everything. We have a small hobby farm with some very cute and friendly goats, chickens, ducks and a mini pig. We also run an outdoor grill Friday & Saturday. We have some picnic tables, hammocks and a fire pit for our guests. We offer breakfast. We are proud of our cooking, hard-work and hospitality.

Cool Wooded Retreat

1 site · RV5 acres · Geneva, NY

We enjoy using private hipcamps when we travel so we decided to offer our full rv hookup for other rvers.Learn more about this land:This is a full RV hookup in a small grove of trees ,while there's not a whole lot to do on this property, its a great place to stop for the night or a place to park your RV while visiting the surrounding area. Enjoy your stay at our little wooded retreat in the country! There are great hiking/biking trails within 10 min, such as Outlet trails in Penn Yan, Grimes Glen in Naples.

Under $50

100%

(456)

Pooh’s Corner

9 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Watkins Glen, NY

WELCOME to Pooh's Corner- We hope you enjoy Pooh's Corner as much as we enjoy having all of you great Hipcampers sharing our beautiful Fingerlakes Region with us. Pooh's Corner lies in a rural area just 1.5 miles from Watkins Glen. (3315 County Road 28, Watkins Glen, NY 14891). We took great care to make sure each campsite is PRIVATE (parking on-site*) and the trails are easily navigable. Our 'Welcome Shed' is equipped with a compost toilet, local information, (newly added) Hot Water Station, first-aid kit, charging station, bug spray etc. and is located in a safe, well lit, open area on the property. Each site is equipped with a fire pit and comfortable seating with tables, chairs, and/or picnic tables and tripod grills. Firewood is available on a donation basis. There are State Parks and places to hike one of the many gorges around beautiful Seneca Lake and surrounding area. Take a tour of the many wineries and breweries which our region is famous for. Enjoy hiking, swimming, biking, kayaking, and many historical sites to see. Our reviews tell it all. We know you'll love it here :) *PLEASE NOTE: Our sites are custom made for TENT or CAR camping. Because we have "parking on-site", Large RVs, Campers (over 16'), and any 5th-wheel campers are very difficult to place since there are no easy ways to back in or turn around. We highly recommend "Havana Glen State Park" (same general area) for those types of camping units.

Cool Wooded Retreat

1 site · RV5 acres · Geneva, NY

We enjoy using private hipcamps when we travel so we decided to offer our full rv hookup for other rvers.Learn more about this land:This is a full RV hookup in a small grove of trees ,while there's not a whole lot to do on this property, its a great place to stop for the night or a place to park your RV while visiting the surrounding area. Enjoy your stay at our little wooded retreat in the country! There are great hiking/biking trails within 10 min, such as Outlet trails in Penn Yan, Grimes Glen in Naples.

Yost Ridge in the Finger Lakes

2 sites · RVs1 acre · Waterloo, NY

This peaceful, private RV camp site has ... - FULL HOOKUP site, with 110, 30 amp and 50 amp electrical outlets - WIFI - POTABLE WELL WATER (65psi) - SEPTIC TANK, - LARGE DRIVEWAY ENTRANCE - LEVEL PARKING Park however it suits you for getting the best views. It's easy to back in or out with big rigs and trailers from the quiet road . The driveway entrance is extra large. There's plenty of space for a boat, trailer or second vehicle. This is a perfect place for fishing, kayaking, bicycling, kite flying, hiking, wine trailing or relaxing at the well-maintained fire pit in the Adirondack chairs. (Local firewood is for sale in the area.) Sunrise and sunset are spectacular here and stargazers will be delighted with the expansive views. Amish carriages and work horses are common sites. YOST RIDGE is located between Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lakes ("Trout fishing capital of the World") in the Finger Lakes wine country, and is just a short distance from numerous wineries; Swedish Hill, Knapp Vineyards, Three Brothers, Ventosa, Buttonwood Grove, and Hosmer wineries. Also located nearby are the National Women's Hall of Fame, and many state parks, including Cayuga Lake State Park, Seneca Lake State Park, Taughannock Falls State Park, Watkins Glen State Park, Buttermilk Fall State Park, within just a few minutes of this site.

The Green Heron

7 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Ithaca, NY

My property is about 70 acres of wildflower meadows, ponds, organic grain farm and forest located about 10 minutes northwest of Ithaca and 20 min from Finger Lakes wine trails. Enjoy walking along the dirt road and mown trails throughout the property, wild raspberry and blackberry picking, bird and wildlife watching and some incredible sunsets! The campsites are located well off the main road for privacy and seclusion. A convenience store and gas station are located about a mile down the road. This is a peaceful and beautiful place to stay.

Camp Whitman on Seneca Lake

16 sites · Lodging117 acres · Penn Yan, NY

Camp Whitman on Seneca Lake is a residential summer camp operated by the Presbytery of Geneva in partnership with the Presbytery of Genesee Valley. The camp has been in operation since 1954. Prior to that the land was a working farm.The property hosts a summer camp each summer, but the cottages and cabins are available for group and family rentals outside of this timeframe. The property is marked by Seneca Lake on its eastern boundary, Punnett's Pond on its western boundary and streams and ravines on its north and south boundaries. The property additionally features a swimming pool, hiking trails, a small organic garden and farm animals and optional activities like archery, boating and more for guests at certain points in the season.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(7)

Taughannock Falls State Park

Trumansburg, New York

100%

(10)

Buttermilk Falls State Park

South Hill, New York

Rainbow Falls, the most recognizable waterfall in the park with a different take on composition.

92%

(27)

Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen, New York

Fillmore Glen State Park

Moravia, New York

100%

(1)

Keuka Lake State Park

Keuka Park, New York

Footbridge on the upper end of the gorge trail

95%

(11)

Robert H. Treman State Park

South Hill, New York

0%

(4)

Finger Lakes National Forest

Trumansburg, New York

83%

(6)

Cayuga Lake State Park

Cayuga, New York

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(10)

Fair Haven Beach State Park

Fair Haven, New York

Camping on Lake Seneca guide

Overview

Life slows down at Seneca Lake, the largest of the Finger Lakes. Check in to a lakeside campground or RV park, and spend your days cruising the lake, wine tasting along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, or relaxing at the lakefront picnic areas. Three state parks border the lake, providing plenty of biking and hiking trails, and Sampson State Park also has a boat launch and swimming beach. Spring through fall is the most popular camping season, but campgrounds at Seneca Lake Park stay open year-round, and Watkins Glen State Park also has cabin rentals for winter campers.

Where to go

Cayuga and Owasco Lakes

East of Seneca Lake, adventurous campers can choose between walk-in sites or enjoy backcountry tent sites in the Finger Lakes National Forest. Hiking trails, wineries, and waterfalls dot the shores of Cayuga Lake. Neighboring Owasco Lake is a water sports hotspot, where boating, fishing, and water skiing are the main activities.

Onondaga County

Woodland tent camping, lakeside fishing, and a renowned craft beer scene await at the eastern edge of the Finger Lakes Region. Syracuse is the county’s largest city, but there are also plenty of ways to explore the outdoors. Cruise Skaneateles Lake by boat or kayak, discover tranquil fishing spots at Lake Otisco, or enjoy seasonal camping in Green Lakes State Park.

Western Lakes

To the west of the Finger Lakes region, the “little lakes” of Conesus, Hemlock, Canadice, and Honeoye are where to escape the crowds. Hike along forest trails, enjoy kayaking or fishing on the lakes in summer, or hit the ski slopes at Bristol Mountain in winter. Camping options are limited, but you’ll find cabins and full hookup sites at Conesus Lake, and plenty of choices around nearby Canandaigua Lake.

Lake Ontario

North of Seneca Lake, the Great Lake Ontario marks the border between New York State and Ontario, Canada. Rochester is the gateway to the lake, and state parks, beaches, and wetlands fringe the south shore. Go hiking in the Chimney Bluffs State Park, spot wildlife around the Lake Shore Marshes, or choose from various camping options around Sodus Bay or Port Bay.