The best lakeside camping near Camillus

·
96% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Round Top Retreat cabin

2. Round Top Retreat

94%
(47)
45mi from Camillus · 1 site · Lodging · Richford, NY
Close to Ithaca, NY, Cayuga Lake, and Cornell University. Once a snowshoe lodge, then a Boy Scout camp, this rustic cabin retreat property is surrounded by the Robinson Hollow State Forest. The 100 year old cabin sits only a few hundred yards from the Sierra Club section of the Finger Lakes Trail. The area is a peaceful spot for hiking, camping and snowshoeing or cross country skiing (October 1 bow season deer hunting begins, and mid-November to December is NYS gun deer season-which may not be as serene as you'd like). Perfect get-away for humans and their four-legged friends, it's a dog's dream vacation spot. Enjoy a week or weekend, or your vacation in a place where the "noise" is the melodious sounds of nature. It is remote enough to completely break from urban life, yet close enough to Ithaca, NY to enjoy its beauty and attractions. Amenities: outhouse, hand water pump, two-seater outhouse, propane grill, some pots and pans, grill utensils, wood stoves, private, gated entrance, pond, trails. Sleeping loft, no bed (you provide mattress/sleeping bag, etc.). There may be candles, toilet paper, bug spray (if left by previous guests). We are an LGBTQ-woman owned property, and welcome all campers regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, political views, religion, or culture of origin. Learn more about this land: A wonderful rustic, private, off-grid get-away, perfect for couples, families, and pups who enjoy camping (log cabin with wood furniture available, you may pitch your tent anywhere on the property - leave no trace).  You may see some wildlife throughout the property (including a milk snake that lives in the cabin wall, but is harmless). It is a quiet, rural, farming area. Once at the cabin there are only two to three houses within a half mile (through the woods), so you will have a private space all your own. Winter camping is special - cozy wood heated cabin, hundreds of acres for snow shoeing, cross country skiing, or snowmobiling. Plan ahead, we do not plow the driveway in winter; plan to shovel an off-road parking space, and transport your gear up to the cabin (1100'). Wood is provided. Onsite: water pump, 2-seat outhouse, wood stove, campfire ring, wood, & propane grill. Exclusive access for nature hikes, streams, forest, pond, swimming, bird watching, star gazing, etc. A wheelchair that can navigate grass and some ruts can enter the cabin, but not the outhouse, and the sleeping loft is up stairs (there is room for a cot or mattress on the first floor); the porch is accessible through the cabin. When you book, you are confirming your understanding of the following: there is no electricity, running water, or std. bed/mattresses. You bring own air mattress, bedding, and gear you will need. All-wheel drive vehicle is recommended. We welcome special events, family reunions, or weddings, if your plans do not require utilities (you may bring a generator or other battery operated items, as needed). Note for winter guests: We do not plow the driveway in winter, you need to be ready to shovel an off-road parking spot, and transport gear to cabin (e.g. by sled, snowshoes) Here's a brief list of the basics to bring: Light source: Lantern propane or battery. Air mattress or cot and whatever bedding you need. Paper products (cups, plates, utensils, toilet paper, etc.) Matches/fire starter (there is wood on-site, and a propane grill for cooking that has a self-starter). Bug spray. Cooler and ice. Lawn chairs.  There are a few tables, several chairs and benches. There are 2 picnic tables (one outside and one inside). The benches can be moved outside if you'd like, just move them back inside before you leave. The propane grill should only be used outside. There is a hand axe in the cabin to shave kindling, and the wood is already split to be the length for the wood stove, as needed. Gas: 5 miles away. If you plan to grocery shop when you get to the area, the closest store is at East Hill Plaza in Ithaca, about 9 miles past where the cabin is (I can give you all that info if you like). There is lots to explore/see/do in the Ithaca area if you decide to come down off the hill one of the days. I'll have some brochures and things in the cabin, and can answer questions (aka where is the best ice cream, dinner, etc.).
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$99
 / night
Smyrna Lake Campsite

3. Smyrna Lake Campsite

96%
(36)
41mi from Camillus · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Smyrna, NY
The site is located on a private lake (90 acres). Campsite sits on 7 acres of woods only a few hundred feet from the lake & dock. No more RV sites in the property, only one spot. It is quiet, private and relaxing. The vibe of the lake is to chill and relax, laud activities not encourage. No motorboats allowed on lake for a more relaxing experienced. Bass fishing is amazing and the water is perfect for swimming. Next to the campsite you will have a nice fire pit with Adirondack chairs, plenty of firewood for sale at a low cost. Dogs allowed, maximum party of 4. Water, sewer and electrical hookups. Wi-Fi its free. No bathrooms or showers in the premises. Exact location: 42.69024° N, 75.64003° W -Camp entrance is on the left-hand side on Cherrywood way (107 is the address #). There will be a brown cabin (empty) in the center of the property. Checkout these videos of the property: video of the lake: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ss6Iq_FjlOU video of campsite: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Wvm3nQjhCU
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$95
 / night
camp surrounded by beautiful Hemlock & Black Locust trees

7. Hawk Meadow Farm

100%
(589)
45mi from Camillus · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Trumansburg, NY
Enjoy a retreat into the woods on Hawk Meadow Farm’s spacious 68 acres. We are a working farm specializing in woodland mushroom cultivation, medicinal mushroom tinctures and earth based education. Our farming practices and products are based in Regenerative Farming, Chinese Medicine and a deep love and respect for the natural world, always striving to work in harmony with nature. This approach is a collaboration with the land which creates the conditions for plants, animals and people to thrive! Many of our campers have been delighted to discover the variety of song birds and other wildlife that they have seen at the campsite. When you stay with us you will enjoy spacious, private campsites with a generous amount of firewood included in your booking! All of our sites can be accessed by car. There is a composting toilet and shower facility nearby. We also have a farm store where you can find our products and we often have fresh shiitakes available for purchase. This is a place for you to reconnect with nature and recharge your spirits! We look forward to having you stay with us.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$50
 / night
Tucked away amongst the pines and the pond.

14. Underhill Forest and Farm

99%
(454)
39mi from Camillus · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Dryden, NY
Underhill Inn is a small homestead located in the Finger Lakes region tucked in the rolling hills near Dryden Lake. We have a small garden, a flock of sheep and chickens, hives of honeybees and countless wild foraging on our 36 acres of pasture and hiking trails.   Take a walk down to Brockendock pond and cruise across the water in a canoe or paddleboat to find peepers, heron, toads and turtles. Drop a line in the water to catch trout, bass and sunnies. The chicken coop is always bustling and there are plenty of eggs to harvest each day. A morning hike on the trails usually kicks up the deer and wild turkeys and at night the barn owl will sing for you if you listen close. Adults and children are welcome to pet and feed the animals on the farm. There are farm tours available where you can learn more about our mushroom garden, composting techniques, blueberries, felting, and more. 
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$38
 / night
On the East lawn, with the house, woodshed and utility area.

15. Robinia in Glenwood

100%
(20)
40mi from Camillus · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Ithaca, NY
Robinia in Glenwood is a working homestead located on 24 acres of mostly forested land. The predominant species in the mixed hardwood forests are Robinia Pseudoacacia (Black locust) and Black Walnut. There are places on the land and a short walk away along DuBois and Glenwood Heights Roads where there are wonderful views of Cayuga Lake. It is less than a mile walk or ride to the Black Diamond Trail, a hiking and biking trail that extends four+ miles North to Taughannock Falls State Park and four+ miles South to Cass Park, the Ithaca Children's Garden, and the City of Ithaca Municipal Pool. And all of downtown Ithaca. Hundreds of adjacent (although not accessible) acres are wildlife preserves, abandoned orchards, and a working honey bee and bison farm. Bathroom and hot showers available in the house, included in price, indoor kitchen and an on-site enclosed porch space for rainy days available for separate fee. Gardening, produce and flower-picking can be arranged on-site in season. Within biking distance of Finger Lakes National Forest in Hector. Located half-way between Ithaca and Trumansburg, down a long driveway. Amazingly quiet and private.
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
The Landing on Seneca Lake

16. The Landing on Seneca Lake

88%
(16)
48mi from Camillus · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Dundee, NY
If you're looking for a quiet setting along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, The Landing is your spot! Park your vehicle on a level parking lot or pop a tent in our spacious grassy fields. NEW for 2025!!! Buy a Day Pass for access to our pristine waterfront and swim off the dock. Enjoy a scenic and quiet setting with a view of Seneca Lake and woods nearby to hike and listen to birds and water flowing through the ravines. Picnic table, fire pit and port-a-potty on-site. No running water or electricity. Very close to Tabora Farm, Hickory Hollow winery, and Glenora winery, and just a 10 minute drive to Watkins Glen. This is a former school campus with several dorm buildings. The school has closed and the owners are trying to reimagine the property and put it back to use. It's a beautiful setting but don't be surprised to see the large dorm buildings! ;-)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$12
 / night
96% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Round Top Retreat cabin

2. Round Top Retreat

94%
(47)
45mi from Camillus · 1 site · Lodging · Richford, NY
Close to Ithaca, NY, Cayuga Lake, and Cornell University. Once a snowshoe lodge, then a Boy Scout camp, this rustic cabin retreat property is surrounded by the Robinson Hollow State Forest. The 100 year old cabin sits only a few hundred yards from the Sierra Club section of the Finger Lakes Trail. The area is a peaceful spot for hiking, camping and snowshoeing or cross country skiing (October 1 bow season deer hunting begins, and mid-November to December is NYS gun deer season-which may not be as serene as you'd like). Perfect get-away for humans and their four-legged friends, it's a dog's dream vacation spot. Enjoy a week or weekend, or your vacation in a place where the "noise" is the melodious sounds of nature. It is remote enough to completely break from urban life, yet close enough to Ithaca, NY to enjoy its beauty and attractions. Amenities: outhouse, hand water pump, two-seater outhouse, propane grill, some pots and pans, grill utensils, wood stoves, private, gated entrance, pond, trails. Sleeping loft, no bed (you provide mattress/sleeping bag, etc.). There may be candles, toilet paper, bug spray (if left by previous guests). We are an LGBTQ-woman owned property, and welcome all campers regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, political views, religion, or culture of origin. Learn more about this land: A wonderful rustic, private, off-grid get-away, perfect for couples, families, and pups who enjoy camping (log cabin with wood furniture available, you may pitch your tent anywhere on the property - leave no trace).  You may see some wildlife throughout the property (including a milk snake that lives in the cabin wall, but is harmless). It is a quiet, rural, farming area. Once at the cabin there are only two to three houses within a half mile (through the woods), so you will have a private space all your own. Winter camping is special - cozy wood heated cabin, hundreds of acres for snow shoeing, cross country skiing, or snowmobiling. Plan ahead, we do not plow the driveway in winter; plan to shovel an off-road parking space, and transport your gear up to the cabin (1100'). Wood is provided. Onsite: water pump, 2-seat outhouse, wood stove, campfire ring, wood, & propane grill. Exclusive access for nature hikes, streams, forest, pond, swimming, bird watching, star gazing, etc. A wheelchair that can navigate grass and some ruts can enter the cabin, but not the outhouse, and the sleeping loft is up stairs (there is room for a cot or mattress on the first floor); the porch is accessible through the cabin. When you book, you are confirming your understanding of the following: there is no electricity, running water, or std. bed/mattresses. You bring own air mattress, bedding, and gear you will need. All-wheel drive vehicle is recommended. We welcome special events, family reunions, or weddings, if your plans do not require utilities (you may bring a generator or other battery operated items, as needed). Note for winter guests: We do not plow the driveway in winter, you need to be ready to shovel an off-road parking spot, and transport gear to cabin (e.g. by sled, snowshoes) Here's a brief list of the basics to bring: Light source: Lantern propane or battery. Air mattress or cot and whatever bedding you need. Paper products (cups, plates, utensils, toilet paper, etc.) Matches/fire starter (there is wood on-site, and a propane grill for cooking that has a self-starter). Bug spray. Cooler and ice. Lawn chairs.  There are a few tables, several chairs and benches. There are 2 picnic tables (one outside and one inside). The benches can be moved outside if you'd like, just move them back inside before you leave. The propane grill should only be used outside. There is a hand axe in the cabin to shave kindling, and the wood is already split to be the length for the wood stove, as needed. Gas: 5 miles away. If you plan to grocery shop when you get to the area, the closest store is at East Hill Plaza in Ithaca, about 9 miles past where the cabin is (I can give you all that info if you like). There is lots to explore/see/do in the Ithaca area if you decide to come down off the hill one of the days. I'll have some brochures and things in the cabin, and can answer questions (aka where is the best ice cream, dinner, etc.).
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$99
 / night
Smyrna Lake Campsite

3. Smyrna Lake Campsite

96%
(36)
41mi from Camillus · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Smyrna, NY
The site is located on a private lake (90 acres). Campsite sits on 7 acres of woods only a few hundred feet from the lake & dock. No more RV sites in the property, only one spot. It is quiet, private and relaxing. The vibe of the lake is to chill and relax, laud activities not encourage. No motorboats allowed on lake for a more relaxing experienced. Bass fishing is amazing and the water is perfect for swimming. Next to the campsite you will have a nice fire pit with Adirondack chairs, plenty of firewood for sale at a low cost. Dogs allowed, maximum party of 4. Water, sewer and electrical hookups. Wi-Fi its free. No bathrooms or showers in the premises. Exact location: 42.69024° N, 75.64003° W -Camp entrance is on the left-hand side on Cherrywood way (107 is the address #). There will be a brown cabin (empty) in the center of the property. Checkout these videos of the property: video of the lake: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ss6Iq_FjlOU video of campsite: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Wvm3nQjhCU
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$95
 / night
camp surrounded by beautiful Hemlock & Black Locust trees

7. Hawk Meadow Farm

100%
(589)
45mi from Camillus · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Trumansburg, NY
Enjoy a retreat into the woods on Hawk Meadow Farm’s spacious 68 acres. We are a working farm specializing in woodland mushroom cultivation, medicinal mushroom tinctures and earth based education. Our farming practices and products are based in Regenerative Farming, Chinese Medicine and a deep love and respect for the natural world, always striving to work in harmony with nature. This approach is a collaboration with the land which creates the conditions for plants, animals and people to thrive! Many of our campers have been delighted to discover the variety of song birds and other wildlife that they have seen at the campsite. When you stay with us you will enjoy spacious, private campsites with a generous amount of firewood included in your booking! All of our sites can be accessed by car. There is a composting toilet and shower facility nearby. We also have a farm store where you can find our products and we often have fresh shiitakes available for purchase. This is a place for you to reconnect with nature and recharge your spirits! We look forward to having you stay with us.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$50
 / night
Tucked away amongst the pines and the pond.

14. Underhill Forest and Farm

99%
(454)
39mi from Camillus · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Dryden, NY
Underhill Inn is a small homestead located in the Finger Lakes region tucked in the rolling hills near Dryden Lake. We have a small garden, a flock of sheep and chickens, hives of honeybees and countless wild foraging on our 36 acres of pasture and hiking trails.   Take a walk down to Brockendock pond and cruise across the water in a canoe or paddleboat to find peepers, heron, toads and turtles. Drop a line in the water to catch trout, bass and sunnies. The chicken coop is always bustling and there are plenty of eggs to harvest each day. A morning hike on the trails usually kicks up the deer and wild turkeys and at night the barn owl will sing for you if you listen close. Adults and children are welcome to pet and feed the animals on the farm. There are farm tours available where you can learn more about our mushroom garden, composting techniques, blueberries, felting, and more. 
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$38
 / night
On the East lawn, with the house, woodshed and utility area.

15. Robinia in Glenwood

100%
(20)
40mi from Camillus · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Ithaca, NY
Robinia in Glenwood is a working homestead located on 24 acres of mostly forested land. The predominant species in the mixed hardwood forests are Robinia Pseudoacacia (Black locust) and Black Walnut. There are places on the land and a short walk away along DuBois and Glenwood Heights Roads where there are wonderful views of Cayuga Lake. It is less than a mile walk or ride to the Black Diamond Trail, a hiking and biking trail that extends four+ miles North to Taughannock Falls State Park and four+ miles South to Cass Park, the Ithaca Children's Garden, and the City of Ithaca Municipal Pool. And all of downtown Ithaca. Hundreds of adjacent (although not accessible) acres are wildlife preserves, abandoned orchards, and a working honey bee and bison farm. Bathroom and hot showers available in the house, included in price, indoor kitchen and an on-site enclosed porch space for rainy days available for separate fee. Gardening, produce and flower-picking can be arranged on-site in season. Within biking distance of Finger Lakes National Forest in Hector. Located half-way between Ithaca and Trumansburg, down a long driveway. Amazingly quiet and private.
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
The Landing on Seneca Lake

16. The Landing on Seneca Lake

88%
(16)
48mi from Camillus · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Dundee, NY
If you're looking for a quiet setting along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, The Landing is your spot! Park your vehicle on a level parking lot or pop a tent in our spacious grassy fields. NEW for 2025!!! Buy a Day Pass for access to our pristine waterfront and swim off the dock. Enjoy a scenic and quiet setting with a view of Seneca Lake and woods nearby to hike and listen to birds and water flowing through the ravines. Picnic table, fire pit and port-a-potty on-site. No running water or electricity. Very close to Tabora Farm, Hickory Hollow winery, and Glenora winery, and just a 10 minute drive to Watkins Glen. This is a former school campus with several dorm buildings. The school has closed and the owners are trying to reimagine the property and put it back to use. It's a beautiful setting but don't be surprised to see the large dorm buildings! ;-)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$12
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field