The best luxury RV campgrounds near Elmira, New York

A hidden gem in Upstate New York, Elmira is more than just a quiet riverside town near Corning. It's a camper's paradise. Pitching a tent here means waking up to steep gorges, waterfalls, and the awe-inspiring Finger Lakes. Boating, hiking, and gliding over lakes in a sailplane are all in a day's adventure.

For enchanting landscapes, check out Watkins Glen State Park. A stream with 19 waterfalls passes through a 200-foot gorge in one of New York's most impressive displays. Want to set up camp here? The park offers wilderness cabins and a sprawling campground with restrooms and hot showers.

In Watkins Glen, outdoor fun is in rich supply. Hiking trails meander below the cliffs and along the rim. When you're legs are tired, jump in the seasonal swimming pool or have lunch in the glen at the picnic tables.

A short drive north brings you to the Finger Lakes region. The easiest to access from Elmira is Seneca Lake, a haven for boating and fishing. Make a detour on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail for some wine tasting at the region's first-rate wineries. You can also stop to gawk up at Montour Falls.

Of course, there's a lot to do right in Elmira. Ride the trolley, or visit the study and grave of Mark Twain. If you want to try your luck, cast a line on the Chemung River. (Don't forget your state fishing license!)

For more state park camping around Elmira and Corning, check out Newtown Battlefield State Park and Buttermilk Falls State Park. You can also find private RV parks and family campgrounds nestled among farms, woods, and ranches. Want to camp in style? Consider booking a rustic cabin, yurt, or cottage.

Elmira has something to offer in every season. For a summer trip, be sure to book your campsite early—the crowds are no joke. The rush tends to die down in the winter when the heavy snowfall makes for great cross-country skiing.

93% (468)

Top-rated campgrounds

A hidden gem in Upstate New York, Elmira is more than just a quiet riverside town near Corning. It's a camper's paradise. Pitching a tent here means waking up to steep gorges, waterfalls, and the awe-inspiring Finger Lakes. Boating, hiking, and gliding over lakes in a sailplane are all in a day's adventure.

For enchanting landscapes, check out Watkins Glen State Park. A stream with 19 waterfalls passes through a 200-foot gorge in one of New York's most impressive displays. Want to set up camp here? The park offers wilderness cabins and a sprawling campground with restrooms and hot showers.

In Watkins Glen, outdoor fun is in rich supply. Hiking trails meander below the cliffs and along the rim. When you're legs are tired, jump in the seasonal swimming pool or have lunch in the glen at the picnic tables.

A short drive north brings you to the Finger Lakes region. The easiest to access from Elmira is Seneca Lake, a haven for boating and fishing. Make a detour on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail for some wine tasting at the region's first-rate wineries. You can also stop to gawk up at Montour Falls.

Of course, there's a lot to do right in Elmira. Ride the trolley, or visit the study and grave of Mark Twain. If you want to try your luck, cast a line on the Chemung River. (Don't forget your state fishing license!)

For more state park camping around Elmira and Corning, check out Newtown Battlefield State Park and Buttermilk Falls State Park. You can also find private RV parks and family campgrounds nestled among farms, woods, and ranches. Want to camp in style? Consider booking a rustic cabin, yurt, or cottage.

Elmira has something to offer in every season. For a summer trip, be sure to book your campsite early—the crowds are no joke. The rush tends to die down in the winter when the heavy snowfall makes for great cross-country skiing.

93% (468)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Sawmill Woodzie/Elk Creek Escape

97%

(95)

44mi from Elmira · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Forksville, PA

In the heart of the forest, nestled among towering trees and surrounded by breathtaking views, a humble camp ground It’s the place that evokes tranquility and solitude, offering a refuge from the chaos of the outside world. What makes this camp ground truly captivating is its unique location, obscured by the presence of a running sawmill, a creek, and lots of animals Come enjoy watching as it takes you back in time. This sawmill is unlike any bandmill, boasting a massive 4 and a half-foot circular saw, a relic from the years between 1935 and 1945. Its rhythmic, melodic hum fills the air, blending seamlessly with the symphony of nature. The captivating noise created an enchanting ambiance, luring those in search of solace and beauty. We run our mill with recycled cooking oil and a diesel blend. Behind the sawmill, nature thrives harmoniously. Wildlife painted the surroundings with vibrant colors, as birds filled the sky with their elegant dances and curious squirrels scurried about, their fluffy tails adding a playful touch to the lush landscape. The cabin is a sanctuary where one can witness the wonders of nature, just a walk away from the roaring sawmill. Come check out a piece of preserved history all while enjoying pristine wooded views! Take a step back in time and immerse yourself in history. Enjoy the power of the circular saw, a symbol of the immense progress and craftsmanship of yesteryears. Together, the cabin, the forest, and the sawmill form a perfect harmony — a testament to the beauty of nature entwined with mankind's desire to create. It offers a glimpse into a world where modernity meets tradition, where breathtaking views and the symphony of the sawmill entice all who venture here to enjoy.

2. Riverfront Campsite Adventures

97%

(19)

48mi from Elmira · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cortland, NY

Stretching 5 acres along the river, this waterfront beauty features a fun trail path with mini waterfalls, serene pond, and plenty of space to stretch out for camping and RV parking. Visitors can fish, camp, and relax by the water and enjoy the peaceful friendly community that is Cortlandville. There's a waterfront treeline for the pups, dogs must be leashed at all times! Amenities include a cooking fire pit, outdoor portable toilet, picnic table. local recommendations and guides from the owners for around town just 2min from the site to stores as well as our guide to the Finger lakes. Please use wood chips and waste bags provided in the bathroom to line the toilet to dispose of your waste!!! 30amp 120v now available for RV's!

3. Underhill Forest and Farm

99%

(454)

38mi from Elmira · 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.

4. Crooked Creek Campground

88%

(12)

46mi from Elmira · 108 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gaines, PA

Welcome to our family-friendly campground nestled in the heart of the scenic PA Wilds, just a stone's throw away from the breathtaking PA Grand Canyon. At our campground, we invite you to experience the joy of the great outdoors with your family. Picture your children laughing and playing in the open air, enjoying a range of activities like river tubing, gaga ball, gem mining, basketball, and volleyball. Our check-in process upon arrival is seamless, ensuring you can start your adventure right away. With gated access, we prioritize your safety and offer a secure environment for your family to create lasting memories. Embrace the beauty of nature, the thrill of outdoor activities, and the warmth of family moments at our picturesque campground. Your perfect escape awaits!

5. Robinia in Glenwood

100%

(20)

30mi from Elmira · 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.

6. Smith Memorial Park Campground

80%

(25)

28mi from Elmira · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · Hector, NY

Welcome to the Finger Lakes A park and campground on Seneca Lake Smith Park is a classic lakeside park and campground built on the slopes of Seneca Lake in the 1970’s — enjoyed by many since the 1800’s. In the heart of New York State’s Finger Lakes and along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, the park and campground’s location offers the best of both nature and socializing. Open daily from dawn to dusk, visitors can access Seneca Lake by foot from the “Green” in the middle of the park, or dirt roads on both the north and south ends of the park.

7. Whitetail Ridge Farm

99%

(114)

23mi from Elmira · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Savona, NY

Whitetail Ridge Farm is a 100-acre farm in the heart of the Finger Lakes Region with ponds, hiking trails, catch & release fishing, crop field and abundance of wildlife. Our farm is a wedding/event venue. We have Poppy's Cabin on Pond it is a rustic Cabin with fire pit, picnic table, & many trails. Perfect for a weekend getaway. There are two ponds on the property for swimming. We also have tent camping and RV/Camper Sites. Apple picking & leaf-peeping available in the fall.

8. Hickory Hill Camping Resort

83%

(3)

32mi from Elmira · 157 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bath, NY

Plan your best trip ever in the beautiful New York Finger Lakes Wine Country! Hickory Hill Camping Resort is a beloved family owned and operated full amenity RV camping resort. Whether you like to set up your tent, park your travel trailer, or hook up your RV - we have got you covered! If you prefer a rental instead, choose a furnished cabin, cottage, or lodge for a home away from home; all with the luxury of your own bathroom. On Hickory Hill’s sprawling 215-acre property, you have access to recreational activities and facilities for every age and activity level. Whether you want to wind down or get pumped up, spend some time solo or meet like-minded travelers, we offer an accessible, safe, and fun environment for couples, families, and group travelers to choose their own adventure. Hickory Hill is more than a camping resort—it’s a gathering place. Join us for special events and themed weekends throughout the year. You can also host your own events, from birthdays to family reunions and weddings, here in the great outdoors. We offer the perfect base camp for exploring nearby attractions such as Watkins Glen, the Finger Lakes Trail, Glen Curtis Museum, Corning Museum, and award-winning wineries and breweries. Check out our website for additional information regarding amenities, calendar for themed weeks, and activities for all ages! Happy Camping!

Camper favorites near Elmira

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Crooked Creek Campground

88%

(12)

46mi from Elmira · 108 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gaines, PA

Welcome to our family-friendly campground nestled in the heart of the scenic PA Wilds, just a stone's throw away from the breathtaking PA Grand Canyon. At our campground, we invite you to experience the joy of the great outdoors with your family. Picture your children laughing and playing in the open air, enjoying a range of activities like river tubing, gaga ball, gem mining, basketball, and volleyball. Our check-in process upon arrival is seamless, ensuring you can start your adventure right away. With gated access, we prioritize your safety and offer a secure environment for your family to create lasting memories. Embrace the beauty of nature, the thrill of outdoor activities, and the warmth of family moments at our picturesque campground. Your perfect escape awaits!

Robinia in Glenwood

100%

(20)

30mi from Elmira · 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.

Smith Memorial Park Campground

80%

(25)

28mi from Elmira · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · Hector, NY

Welcome to the Finger Lakes A park and campground on Seneca Lake Smith Park is a classic lakeside park and campground built on the slopes of Seneca Lake in the 1970’s — enjoyed by many since the 1800’s. In the heart of New York State’s Finger Lakes and along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, the park and campground’s location offers the best of both nature and socializing. Open daily from dawn to dusk, visitors can access Seneca Lake by foot from the “Green” in the middle of the park, or dirt roads on both the north and south ends of the park.

Whitetail Ridge Farm

99%

(114)

23mi from Elmira · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Savona, NY

Whitetail Ridge Farm is a 100-acre farm in the heart of the Finger Lakes Region with ponds, hiking trails, catch & release fishing, crop field and abundance of wildlife. Our farm is a wedding/event venue. We have Poppy's Cabin on Pond it is a rustic Cabin with fire pit, picnic table, & many trails. Perfect for a weekend getaway. There are two ponds on the property for swimming. We also have tent camping and RV/Camper Sites. Apple picking & leaf-peeping available in the fall.

Hickory Hill Camping Resort

83%

(3)

32mi from Elmira · 157 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bath, NY

Plan your best trip ever in the beautiful New York Finger Lakes Wine Country! Hickory Hill Camping Resort is a beloved family owned and operated full amenity RV camping resort. Whether you like to set up your tent, park your travel trailer, or hook up your RV - we have got you covered! If you prefer a rental instead, choose a furnished cabin, cottage, or lodge for a home away from home; all with the luxury of your own bathroom. On Hickory Hill’s sprawling 215-acre property, you have access to recreational activities and facilities for every age and activity level. Whether you want to wind down or get pumped up, spend some time solo or meet like-minded travelers, we offer an accessible, safe, and fun environment for couples, families, and group travelers to choose their own adventure. Hickory Hill is more than a camping resort—it’s a gathering place. Join us for special events and themed weekends throughout the year. You can also host your own events, from birthdays to family reunions and weddings, here in the great outdoors. We offer the perfect base camp for exploring nearby attractions such as Watkins Glen, the Finger Lakes Trail, Glen Curtis Museum, Corning Museum, and award-winning wineries and breweries. Check out our website for additional information regarding amenities, calendar for themed weeks, and activities for all ages! Happy Camping!

Stories from the community

S

Sara

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sawmill Woodzie/Elk Creek Escape

We spent 2 nights and had a nice stay. It was cooler weather so not many people camping, nice and quiet. Rus who manages the campground was awesome. Friendly, helpful, fun guy. Some feedback for the Hipcamp listing, all we got was an address which lead us to a cabin a mile or so away from the actual site. We had to knock on someone’s door to get help figuring out where to go. I had messaged the host early in the day to let them know when we’d be arriving. No response.

P

Philip

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Sawmill Woodzie/Elk Creek Escape

Open field site with a lovely overlook of the river. I checked in at the main office, took the offer for their (permanent? sleeps 4-6) tent on the property, and the host even kindly helped jump start my car on my last morning as it had had some battery issues recently. Wifi available but spotty far away from the main office, I didn't have a chance to check out the bath facilities.

L

Louren

October 2025

17 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Smith Memorial Park Campground

Gem of gems! Exquisite location! Very clean facilities. Super cool location near good food and wine!

A

Alexis

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Underhill Forest and Farm

Beautiful and well maintained site! Has an open field which is perfect for star gazing. Will definitely return

M

Maren

September 2025

20 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Campground

This was a perfect campsite! Absolutely beautiful, clean bathrooms/showers, and a peaceful spot by the creek!

H

Harsha

September 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Riverfront Campsite Adventures

We had a wonderful stay at Vivian’s! The site was super clean, with a beautiful lake view, toilet, water hookup, a sturdy metal fire grill, and even a camping table which made things really convenient. They also provided firewood, and the shade under the trees made it so peaceful during the day. What really stood out was the hospitality — we arrived very late (around 1am) due to our own delays, and at first went to their other campsite right next to ours by mistake. Even at that late hour, Vivian kindly responded right away and guided us to the correct spot. Truly above and beyond! One small suggestion would be to add a bigger direction board, since the current one is a bit too small to recognize easily. Other than that, everything was perfect. Highly recommend for a comfortable and welcoming camping experience! 🌿🔥✨

T

Tyler

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sawmill Woodzie/Elk Creek Escape

Russ was super kind and helpful in getting checked in. I had a great conversation with him the following day about the facilities. Bathrooms were clean, lots of upgrades occurring, can’t wait to come back.

A

Alex

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sawmill Woodzie/Elk Creek Escape

It was a great camp site, we had plenty of space, and the camp staff was helpful.

E

Emily

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverfront Campsite Adventures

Vivian’s place was an amazing stay! She was quick to respond & the site was peaceful, right along the water! It’s close to town as well!

A

Anna Laura

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverfront Campsite Adventures

This was a such a lovely spot to camp! The metal fire pits were super helpful for cooking, and we loved being able to look out over the river the whole time. Vivian was very communicative and helpful throughout our stay. Would definitely recommend and return!

A

Abhiniti Stella

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Underhill Forest and Farm

We had such a wonderful experience at this pondside campsite! The whole area is absolutely beautiful and peaceful, with stunning views that made the trip so relaxing and refreshing. The site itself was well-kept, spacious, and perfectly located right by the water, which added so much to the atmosphere. It truly felt like a hidden gem. We loved every moment here and can’t wait to come back again. Highly recommend this spot to anyone looking for a perfect nature getaway!

k

katlyn

September 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Crooked Creek Campground

Great place! Close to Lyman run state park and cherry springs state park, the creek is beautiful, nice bathrooms and play ground for kids. Would stay again if in the area

Brendan

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Underhill Forest and Farm

We couldn't have asked for a better nights stay at the farm. Rick and his family welcomed us with open arms to their amazing property, and it made for an awesome experience. The whole farm is beautiful, and the sites are separated out to make it feel like you have the whole place to yourself. Our site was stocked with firewood and any accommodation we needed was steps away. The trails cleared out on the farm were perfect to walk along, and having the paddle-boat to use on the pond was awesome. We'd absolutely recommend a stay here. We wished ours was for more than just the night.

A

April

August 2025

10 ft campervan

2 nights at Crooked Creek Campground

Great experience all around. Clean and felt safe for solo campers. Highly recommended

Darren

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Robinia in Glenwood

Incredibly friendly host - was greeted and oriented to the location, lots of space to find a place. Close to town as well as other more local food/etc. options in the area. Had to leave quickly after one evening, will look to stay here again in the future - beautiful area of the United States.

T

Tallulah

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Underhill Forest and Farm

Second time even better! It’s a relaxing spot to watch the sunset and stargaze at night

T

Tallulah

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Underhill Forest and Farm

We enjoyed our time on Rick’s land. We had tons of privacy and the spot was relaxing and perfect for tent camping. It was so nice that we planned a return stay.

cliff

August 2025

21 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Riverfront Campsite Adventures

Beautiful place water great to look at but very shallow

D

Dann

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Riverfront Campsite Adventures

It was a good spot for a quick stay. Plenty of accommodations and easy to pitch a tent.

Derek

August 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Smith Memorial Park Campground

Well maintained campgrounds on a beautiful lake, swimming and boating options. Plenty of driftwood for starting fires, and a water spigot on our campsite adds convenience.