96% (4.7K) • 642 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Elmira
Round Top Retreat
1. Round Top Retreat
94%
(47)
34mi from Elmira · 1 site · Lodging
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.).
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$99
/ night
Riverside Camping Site
2. Riverside Camping Site
97%
(66)
47mi from Elmira · 1 site · Tent, RV
Our river front property along the Tioughnioga River is just a few miles off Route 81 in Whitney Point NY. Our tent camping/RV site offers primitive camping with 30 amp RV electric hook up, sewer hook up right at the camping area, and a water spigot (sediment and carbon filter) 200 feet from campsite. Water available (normally April through November depending on weather temperatures). Enjoy fishing, kayaking, and swimming right on the property, and visit Dorchester Park just minutes up the road.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
$49
/ night
Rune Hill Sanctuary
3. Rune Hill Sanctuary
97%
(48)
19mi from Elmira · 1 site · Tent
This property has been inhabited since the 19th century. Through multiple owners in multiple ventures it has remained primarily in its natural state. This property has 182 Acres of rolling hills, meadows, forest, creeks and waterfalls, and much more created by glacial activity long long ago. We humans have added some infrastructure. The property has an outdoor kitchen and Pavilion, outdoor shower, outdoor compost toilets, a wood-burning sauna, and a few other structures. Come enjoy this magical place and see what it is that we love so much about it.Learn more about this land:Rune Hill Sanctuary is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the stresses of normal life, or whatever motivates you to get out and camp. At Rune Hill Sanctuary, camping is easy. We have a 182 acres of protected land with many great spots to pitch a tent. Along with your tent stay we provide a comunal fire pit, picnic table, & a wood burning sauna. You would be expected to "bring in & bring out" all other nessesities you would need to enjoy your stay. Over 3 miles of mowed trails, and much more. This property is just magical! You just have to see it to know what I mean.
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from
$48
/ night
Apple Creek Farm
4. Apple Creek Farm
19mi from Elmira · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
These are beautiful wooded camping country sites with plant and wild life located just 10 miles from downtown Corning, New York. There is one rustic cabin available for rent, along with a teepee site, and 2 tent sites. We are between the Finger Lakes and the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, just 1 mile off highway 99/15. Sites are located less than a 400 yard hike from the parking area, each site having both a picnic table and fire ring. There is an outhouse located within 250 yards from all sites. There is river access one mile from camp. Campers that require help getting to a site, can be driven up the hill via side by side. Every site is connected to state land with over 2,700 acres worth of hiking trails. We have a number of mountain bikes, kayaks, canoes, snow shoes, tents, sleeping bags/mats, etc. available for rent on site. In addition, if guests are interested in classes on site, I am a wilderness and survival expert willing to offer assistance as a guide through the trails, on the river, with setting up camp, etc. Some of my survival classes include fire making, shelter building, edible food foraging, self defense training, and fishing and hunting.
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$20
/ night
The Landing on Seneca Lake
5. The Landing on Seneca Lake
88%
(16)
30mi from Elmira · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
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! ;-)
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$12
/ night
96% (4.7K) • 642 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Elmira
Round Top Retreat
1. Round Top Retreat
94%
(47)
34mi from Elmira · 1 site · Lodging
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.).
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$99
/ night
Riverside Camping Site
2. Riverside Camping Site
97%
(66)
47mi from Elmira · 1 site · Tent, RV
Our river front property along the Tioughnioga River is just a few miles off Route 81 in Whitney Point NY. Our tent camping/RV site offers primitive camping with 30 amp RV electric hook up, sewer hook up right at the camping area, and a water spigot (sediment and carbon filter) 200 feet from campsite. Water available (normally April through November depending on weather temperatures). Enjoy fishing, kayaking, and swimming right on the property, and visit Dorchester Park just minutes up the road.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
$49
/ night
Rune Hill Sanctuary
3. Rune Hill Sanctuary
97%
(48)
19mi from Elmira · 1 site · Tent
This property has been inhabited since the 19th century. Through multiple owners in multiple ventures it has remained primarily in its natural state. This property has 182 Acres of rolling hills, meadows, forest, creeks and waterfalls, and much more created by glacial activity long long ago. We humans have added some infrastructure. The property has an outdoor kitchen and Pavilion, outdoor shower, outdoor compost toilets, a wood-burning sauna, and a few other structures. Come enjoy this magical place and see what it is that we love so much about it.Learn more about this land:Rune Hill Sanctuary is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the stresses of normal life, or whatever motivates you to get out and camp. At Rune Hill Sanctuary, camping is easy. We have a 182 acres of protected land with many great spots to pitch a tent. Along with your tent stay we provide a comunal fire pit, picnic table, & a wood burning sauna. You would be expected to "bring in & bring out" all other nessesities you would need to enjoy your stay. Over 3 miles of mowed trails, and much more. This property is just magical! You just have to see it to know what I mean.
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from
$48
/ night
Apple Creek Farm
4. Apple Creek Farm
19mi from Elmira · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
These are beautiful wooded camping country sites with plant and wild life located just 10 miles from downtown Corning, New York. There is one rustic cabin available for rent, along with a teepee site, and 2 tent sites. We are between the Finger Lakes and the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, just 1 mile off highway 99/15. Sites are located less than a 400 yard hike from the parking area, each site having both a picnic table and fire ring. There is an outhouse located within 250 yards from all sites. There is river access one mile from camp. Campers that require help getting to a site, can be driven up the hill via side by side. Every site is connected to state land with over 2,700 acres worth of hiking trails. We have a number of mountain bikes, kayaks, canoes, snow shoes, tents, sleeping bags/mats, etc. available for rent on site. In addition, if guests are interested in classes on site, I am a wilderness and survival expert willing to offer assistance as a guide through the trails, on the river, with setting up camp, etc. Some of my survival classes include fire making, shelter building, edible food foraging, self defense training, and fishing and hunting.
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$20
/ night
The Landing on Seneca Lake
5. The Landing on Seneca Lake
88%
(16)
30mi from Elmira · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
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! ;-)
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$12
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Ray
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Round Top Retreat
I spent the weekend at Round Top Retreat alone to unplug, relax, and recharge and it was exactly what I needed. The wood burning stoves did an excellent job at heating the cabin. It got below 40° at night but it was probably 60° inside with the fire going. The stove is also great for cooking. It was a little rainy during my trip so I did all my cooking indoors.
The driveway continues uphill past the cabin and turns into a hiking trail. I think it's supposed to connect to the Robinsons Hollow State Forest Trail but I couldn't find it (the official trial head is just down the road). It was still an invigorating 2 mile walk. I spotted lots of birds and a couple deer.
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Cherie
October 2025
30 ft Class A
A perfectly pleasant stay! Kate was very responsive and even gave us a suggestion of a good place to eat. Tabora’s was yummy! We chose the spot on the property closest to the lake so we could have the view. It was level, super quiet and peaceful. We even had two whitetail deer run past our rig one afternoon. At night we could hear cars at the Watkins Glen racetrack in the distance, which was super cool. Only about 10 minutes from the town of Watkins Glen, it was super convenient. During part of our stay, the local police department used the property to train its K-9 division, which was intriguing to watch. (It would have been nice to have been notified that this was a training rather than a man hunt, though. We were a bit nervous until we figured it out.) :) Overall, it was a great stay and we would definitely recommend!
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R
Renee
October 2025
Tent
I brought a backpack with everything I needed, set up camp, first on the hill (awakening to a vibrant sunrise view) and then into the forest by a stream. I spent 3 nights and never left the property. I wandered through old forest with giant white pines and soft needles underneath. I followed a winding stream up into the hills, and even found a small secluded pool of icy water under one of the many small waterfalls. (I couldn’t resist a bracingly cold .immersion.) I got lost in the woods and was thrilled to see my first porcupine scritching its way up a tree! It was a spiritual experience sitting cross legged on the wooded hill and breathing in the peacefulness, listening to the gentle rustle of the leaves. I was craving healing solitude and I feel so grateful to have found it here. Thank you Joseph for sharing your land. I hope that others find their way there and experience their own peace.
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D
David
September 2025
Tent
Breathtaking waterfront spot! We will be back.
Eagles, turtles, smallmouth bass. Even chummed up some giant carp!
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WILLIAM
September 2025
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
This is a very nice location, only about 11/2 miles from Whitney Point but very private. We were the only people there, had not trouble getting our 17 foot trailer in on gravel pad. We hauled our water but there is the spigot about 200 feet from where the 30 amp service is. A supple of dry wood and nice fire ring we made good use of, river was drought low but still hooked couple smallmouth bass and a several giant chub minnows. Saw couple three bald eagles fly though, lots of blue jays and king fishers sounding off. A very good spot, recommend for privacy and convenience, town is close but it doesn’t feel that way
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K
Kristina
September 2025
Tent
A last minute decision to go camping led us to pick here, it's a large campus and plenty of space to keep between others, it was just my bf and I with our 2 dogs for an over night. We arrived late morning was set up by noon and was just us till early evening another couple came and set up across the way. We enjoyed the view and peace and quiet. We did walk down the road down to the watefront but there were other homes so we didn't go all the way down. It's a hike! It's a primitive set up no bathroom or running water so we came prepared. Would definitely go again.
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K
Kelly
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Round Top Retreat
Perfect getaway for myself and my two poodles. My only regret is that I only booked one night. We will be back for sure, hopefully this year if there are weekends still available.
The cabin is incredibly charming and it smells so good! Not sure what I expected, maybe earthy, musty smell? It felt like home. I am not necessarily a hardy, “rugged” girl and I felt the accommodations were perfect. The sleeping loft is so beautiful with the sky lights and the large back porch is wonderful for early morning coffee while feeling immersed in nature.
My dogs and I hiked through the goldenrod fields approximately one mile up the hill- great little workout for me. We went into the forest as well, found really beautiful moss-covered trees and stumps. My standard poodle is a swim-a-holic and spent more of her time retrieving from the pond and practicing her dock-diving distance.
Surprisingly, I had great cell phone service everywhere I went on the property. Overall, stunning place with the warmest, most welcoming host, Nancy, and we cannot wait to be back there!!
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Nina
September 2025
Tent
Joe's land is truly magical. Rolling hills made full with goldenrod and pollinators; a pond reflecting the sky above fills with fog each morning. Maintained trails traverse both field and forest, allowing for as wild of an experience as one wishes to venture for. The creek bed held very little water during our Labor Day weekend visit, but, even with the waterfall only trickling, the beauty of the mossy stones and small pools wasn't lost. The sauna was a lovely reprieve from the chill of the morning dew ~ we used it twice during our stay! Although there were campers in the cabins adjacent on the land, we were incredibly secluded and felt alone the entire time.
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E
Emmarie
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Round Top Retreat
The cabin was a wonderful shelter and we loved cozying up to the fire. The land offers a lovely area with freedom to roam. Nancy is a helpful and accommodating host. Would definitely return
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Teri
August 2025
30 ft campervan
With pets
We loved Beth's land. It is far enough away from the road that our dogs had some space to run around and play. They also got to cool off in the river. Site is exactly as advertised. Easy in and out, directions bring you right there. Beth was very responsive. Overall 2 thumbs up!
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S
Sam
August 2025
25 ft travel trailer
Host was very kind and available, helpful. Was disappointed in the extremely steep and windy hill to access the dock. I was not comfortable walking or taking a vehicle down.
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Pat
August 2025
Tent
Joseph was so friendly & welcoming. He answered all of our questions in a timely manner & was always willing to help us out. Joseph had told us where all the amenities were & we utilized the outdoor shower, nearby the bathrooms, as well as washing some dishes inside the pavilion. The water was warm & it was such a nice little convenience to have (it is a walk away from the campsite so we just drove down & parked in the lot). After reading past reviews, as well as Joseph’s own words, if you have a 4x4 or an SUV with AWD, it’s not problem going up to the campsite nearby the pond. However, if you don’t, it might be a trek up with your stuff. I would highly recommend the spot bc we had a gorgeous view waking up in the morning & fell asleep under a starlit sky. Thanks for everything Joseph!
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Kip
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Round Top Retreat
Had an enjoyable 3 nights here while in the area for the Cup Series race at Watkins Glen Intl. Definitely private. It's all yours to the top of the hill and there's a good buffer of forest between the cabin and the surrounding roads. The description and other reviews here are accurate. This is not glamping. It's camping, but with the convenience of solid walls, a roof over your head, and a wood stove for warmth. At least in early August, there were no biting bugs and minimal swarming bugs. Nothing a mosquito coil or Thermacell can't handle. It was cool in the shade even when the forecast was in the low 90's, but it does get hot in the cabin even with all the windows open. The solar shower is fun since you have little choice but to be naked out on the porch!
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Theresa
August 2025
With pets
Absolutely loved the cabin and the property was definitely secluded. Nancy is an awesome host, quick to reply to any questions, gave perfect directions, and quick to make right what we had and issue with.
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Jennifer
August 2025
36 ft fifth wheel
We loved staying here. Beautiful view of the lake (from one spot), easy access to Watkins Glen and surrounding wineries. We were the only people there, very quiet. We hope to stay again next summer.
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Tanya
August 2025
26 ft travel trailer
With pets
We spent 4 nights at the Riverside Camping Site and absolutely loved it! Beth happily answered all of my questions before booking, and the provided directions to reach the property, access the amenities, and where to set up were clear. We had an issue with our electric service when we first arrived, and Grant didn't hesitate to travel to the site to resolve it. They are truly wonderful hosts.
We camp with our two fairly reactive dogs that don't do well in busy or noisy campgrounds, so this very private property was perfect. There is some traffic noise due to its easy accessibility from the interstate, but we didn't find it bothersome. We enjoyed our coffee by the river every morning while watching eagles, herons, and ducks, and some great fishing throughout the day as well. I was sad that we didn't bring our kayaks along! I recommend checking out Dorchester Park for a walk, boating, or playground visit, and The Scoop of Whitney Point for ice cream. :) The only thing I would change is cutting down some of the brush between the upper and lower levels for a river view from the electric/RV sites. Otherwise, this is a definite winner!
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k
kate
July 2025
20 ft Class C
Gorgeous site with expansive lake views. Very private and expansive. Easy access to the wine trail and all the amazing farm stands in the area. We loved our stay and would come back.
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C
Cassie
July 2025
Tent
The area was beautiful and peaceful. It was nice to be able to sit by the lake and read without having to share the area with anyone else. Kate was super helpful with her directions and checking in on me.
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Linda
July 2025
Tent
Group trip
Stunning views and wildlife galore! The whole property is basically yours, with very few kayakers/canoers going by. Everything you need from water to electric. The pups roamed freely with no worries. Highly recommend for family or couples.
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Warren
July 2025
25 ft travel trailer
Site was very private, even though not super far from houses and road. Saw only 2 people getting mail over 3 days I was there. Beautiful property. Only suggestion would be clearing weeds etc that block view of river. You can walk down nicely mowed path, however that view could be there for entire stay. Definitely plan on returning for another stay!
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