The best mountainous campgrounds near Rochester, New York

Tourists often overlook this historic small city located on Lake Ontario. But locals know that Rochester is prime terrain for exploring western New York. niagara falls is 1 1/2 hours away and the Finger Lakes just an hour. The city itself is a hub for festivals, making summer the prime season to visit.

Lake Ontario offers nearly 200 miles of fresh water to swim, fish, and kayak. About 30 miles from Rochester, Hamlin Beach State Park is a favorite for lakeside camping. The family-friendly camp has tent and trailer sites with electrical hookups. Sandy beaches with lifeguards and a boat launch offer easy water access, plus beach trails for walking and biking.

For wilder terrain, make a day trip to the Braddock Bay Wildlife Management Area. Nature trails crisscross these marshes--a flyway stop for harriers, kingfishers, and herons, among other species. It's a beautiful spot for kayaking, and several boat launches make getting in the water easy. There's also a fishing pier on Salmon Creek to cast your line.

The Finger Lakes are worthy of destination camping all by themselves. In addition to scenic waterfall trails and boating, the region has first-rate golf courses and many wineries.

Sampson State Park is an excellent home base for exploring. Located on Seneca Lake, the large campground has cabins and several loops of campsites. A snack bar on the beach and a marina give the park a busy feel. There's also a military museum with retired fighter jets parked outside on the grass.

If you want to stay closer to Rochester, private campgrounds are your best bet. You can find cottages right out of a summer camp and RV parks with creature comforts like full hookups and Wi-Fi. The closest public campgrounds are in Webster Park in the nearby town of Webster. This small camp is set amid miles of nature trails and a short walk from the fishing pier on Lake Ontario.

99% (65) • 14 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Rochester

Cozy A-Frames and Camp Vibes in NY

1. Cozy A-Frames and Camp Vibes in NY

100%

(2)

28mi from Rochester · 84 sites · Tents, Lodging

Relax, Recharge, and Reconnect Camp. Cabin. Glamp. Your Finger Lakes Escape Starts Here. Tucked into the scenic Bristol Hills, just a short drive from the sparkling lakes and world-class wineries of New York’s Finger Lakes region, our campground is the perfect blend of peaceful retreat and modern convenience. Whether you're parking your RV, cozying up in a cabin, or indulging in a luxury glamping A-frame, you’ll find space to breathe, explore, and unwind. On-site amenities include: ✅ Spacious full-hookup RV sites (30/50 amp) ✅ Secluded tent sites for classic camping ✅ Private cabins and luxury glamping A-frames ✅ Clean, modern bathhouses ✅ Sparkling swimming pool for sunny days ✅ Covered pavilion with a gathering area, books, and games ✅ Picnic tables & fire pits at every site ✅ Scenic hiking trails on-site and public trails throughout the region ✅ Camp store stocked with essentials and local goodies ✅ Pet-friendly sites — bring your adventure buddy ✅ Peaceful, wooded surroundings and star-filled skies Whether you're here to unwind by the fire, explore nearby waterfalls and wineries, or spend the afternoon at the pool, our campground is your home base for Finger Lakes adventure. Adventure Starts Here — On Land, Water, and Everywhere in Between Explore the Finger Lakes Looking to explore all that the Finger Lakes have to offer? Bristol Woodlands is your perfect launch point. Hike scenic trails through rolling hills and chase waterfalls that reward every step. Paddle across any of the local lakes by kayak, canoe, or paddleboard—or bring your own boat for a day of fishing, cruising, or adrenaline-fueled fun. Craving a taste of the local scene? With more than 100 wineries, breweries, and distilleries nearby, you’ll find endless options for sipping your way through the region. And when the sun sets, head just 13 miles down the road to CMAC, where world-class artists light up the stage all season long. From outdoor thrills to unforgettable evenings, your Finger Lakes adventure begins right here. Our Mission: To exceed your expectations, every time.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$45

/ night

Apple Cove Farm

2. Apple Cove Farm

96%

(62)

48mi from Rochester · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Bought this place 13 yrs ago it was nothing but bare land. I've cleared out an area to camp, play, and enjoy the world. Find this as a good chance to share the outdoors with new ppl. Every year we host a Tree fundraiser called "May We Begin" where we replant as many trees with tree shields as we can raise funds for. Learn more about this land: The feeling of peace is about 1 mile off the road. Pulling into Apple Cove you'll see we've cleared areas for tents and small van style RVs. There is an individual fire pit for each camper, a small rock bottom creek runs through the 15 acres for a nice, relaxing view of the woods. The kids and I set up a swing set, and a spot by the creek to play and splash. Now, New York is a 420 friendly state. Enjoy yourself but please be respectful of others Minutes away from: Letchworth State Park, Silver Lake, Genesee River, Geneseo, Silver Springs MX track, Mt. Morris Dam, Walmart, Tim Hortons, Escoy Creek, Wiscoy falls, Stony Brook Creek, Silver Lake Drive Inn, With in an hour from: Buffalo, Batavia, Corning, Chautauqua, Lake, Rochester, Olean, Hamburg, Jamestown, Franklinville, Ellicottville, Niagara Falls Tonawanda, Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, Case Lake, Finger lakes, Rushford lake, Watkins Glenn, Three different casinos, Bills Stadium, Sabers Rink, Bison's and Batavia baseball Statium Recycling is encouraged, camping is at your own risk and discretion for spot location. Military members showing id at check in receive $5 cash back or free small bundle of wood. Thanks for your service!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$29

/ night

Camp Believe It

3. Camp Believe It

100%

(3)

45mi from Rochester · 1 site · Lodging

A small 950 square foot cabin in the windmill/farm hills of Cohocton NY. Cabin sits on 50 acres with hiking trails. Perfect for a get away from people and cities. Nearby there are small unique villages with breweries, wineries, restaurant, stores and hiking. The local lakes in the area are Canadaguia lake, Loon Lake and Keuka lake. There is also all the finger lakes around the area too. All within 10-35 minutes away!

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$100

/ night

Daddy's Mountain

4. Daddy's Mountain

100%

(6)

46mi from Rochester · 2 sites · RVs

Nestled in the foothills of the Northern Appalachian Mountains, "Daddy's Mountain" is so named by my younger daughter when she was a child. The property has been in the family for generations. It was part of the original Acomb Family Farm located on Acomb Road. This site offers spectacular views and breathtaking sunsets of the rolling hills of the Genesee Valley. Surrounded by beautiful farmland it has easy access to the road. A variety of wildlife can often be seen.

Pets

from

$25

/ night

Tourists often overlook this historic small city located on Lake Ontario. But locals know that Rochester is prime terrain for exploring western New York. niagara falls is 1 1/2 hours away and the Finger Lakes just an hour. The city itself is a hub for festivals, making summer the prime season to visit.

Lake Ontario offers nearly 200 miles of fresh water to swim, fish, and kayak. About 30 miles from Rochester, Hamlin Beach State Park is a favorite for lakeside camping. The family-friendly camp has tent and trailer sites with electrical hookups. Sandy beaches with lifeguards and a boat launch offer easy water access, plus beach trails for walking and biking.

For wilder terrain, make a day trip to the Braddock Bay Wildlife Management Area. Nature trails crisscross these marshes--a flyway stop for harriers, kingfishers, and herons, among other species. It's a beautiful spot for kayaking, and several boat launches make getting in the water easy. There's also a fishing pier on Salmon Creek to cast your line.

The Finger Lakes are worthy of destination camping all by themselves. In addition to scenic waterfall trails and boating, the region has first-rate golf courses and many wineries.

Sampson State Park is an excellent home base for exploring. Located on Seneca Lake, the large campground has cabins and several loops of campsites. A snack bar on the beach and a marina give the park a busy feel. There's also a military museum with retired fighter jets parked outside on the grass.

If you want to stay closer to Rochester, private campgrounds are your best bet. You can find cottages right out of a summer camp and RV parks with creature comforts like full hookups and Wi-Fi. The closest public campgrounds are in Webster Park in the nearby town of Webster. This small camp is set amid miles of nature trails and a short walk from the fishing pier on Lake Ontario.

99% (65) • 14 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Rochester

Cozy A-Frames and Camp Vibes in NY

1. Cozy A-Frames and Camp Vibes in NY

100%

(2)

28mi from Rochester · 84 sites · Tents, Lodging

Relax, Recharge, and Reconnect Camp. Cabin. Glamp. Your Finger Lakes Escape Starts Here. Tucked into the scenic Bristol Hills, just a short drive from the sparkling lakes and world-class wineries of New York’s Finger Lakes region, our campground is the perfect blend of peaceful retreat and modern convenience. Whether you're parking your RV, cozying up in a cabin, or indulging in a luxury glamping A-frame, you’ll find space to breathe, explore, and unwind. On-site amenities include: ✅ Spacious full-hookup RV sites (30/50 amp) ✅ Secluded tent sites for classic camping ✅ Private cabins and luxury glamping A-frames ✅ Clean, modern bathhouses ✅ Sparkling swimming pool for sunny days ✅ Covered pavilion with a gathering area, books, and games ✅ Picnic tables & fire pits at every site ✅ Scenic hiking trails on-site and public trails throughout the region ✅ Camp store stocked with essentials and local goodies ✅ Pet-friendly sites — bring your adventure buddy ✅ Peaceful, wooded surroundings and star-filled skies Whether you're here to unwind by the fire, explore nearby waterfalls and wineries, or spend the afternoon at the pool, our campground is your home base for Finger Lakes adventure. Adventure Starts Here — On Land, Water, and Everywhere in Between Explore the Finger Lakes Looking to explore all that the Finger Lakes have to offer? Bristol Woodlands is your perfect launch point. Hike scenic trails through rolling hills and chase waterfalls that reward every step. Paddle across any of the local lakes by kayak, canoe, or paddleboard—or bring your own boat for a day of fishing, cruising, or adrenaline-fueled fun. Craving a taste of the local scene? With more than 100 wineries, breweries, and distilleries nearby, you’ll find endless options for sipping your way through the region. And when the sun sets, head just 13 miles down the road to CMAC, where world-class artists light up the stage all season long. From outdoor thrills to unforgettable evenings, your Finger Lakes adventure begins right here. Our Mission: To exceed your expectations, every time.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$45

/ night

Apple Cove Farm

2. Apple Cove Farm

96%

(62)

48mi from Rochester · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Bought this place 13 yrs ago it was nothing but bare land. I've cleared out an area to camp, play, and enjoy the world. Find this as a good chance to share the outdoors with new ppl. Every year we host a Tree fundraiser called "May We Begin" where we replant as many trees with tree shields as we can raise funds for. Learn more about this land: The feeling of peace is about 1 mile off the road. Pulling into Apple Cove you'll see we've cleared areas for tents and small van style RVs. There is an individual fire pit for each camper, a small rock bottom creek runs through the 15 acres for a nice, relaxing view of the woods. The kids and I set up a swing set, and a spot by the creek to play and splash. Now, New York is a 420 friendly state. Enjoy yourself but please be respectful of others Minutes away from: Letchworth State Park, Silver Lake, Genesee River, Geneseo, Silver Springs MX track, Mt. Morris Dam, Walmart, Tim Hortons, Escoy Creek, Wiscoy falls, Stony Brook Creek, Silver Lake Drive Inn, With in an hour from: Buffalo, Batavia, Corning, Chautauqua, Lake, Rochester, Olean, Hamburg, Jamestown, Franklinville, Ellicottville, Niagara Falls Tonawanda, Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, Case Lake, Finger lakes, Rushford lake, Watkins Glenn, Three different casinos, Bills Stadium, Sabers Rink, Bison's and Batavia baseball Statium Recycling is encouraged, camping is at your own risk and discretion for spot location. Military members showing id at check in receive $5 cash back or free small bundle of wood. Thanks for your service!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$29

/ night

Camp Believe It

3. Camp Believe It

100%

(3)

45mi from Rochester · 1 site · Lodging

A small 950 square foot cabin in the windmill/farm hills of Cohocton NY. Cabin sits on 50 acres with hiking trails. Perfect for a get away from people and cities. Nearby there are small unique villages with breweries, wineries, restaurant, stores and hiking. The local lakes in the area are Canadaguia lake, Loon Lake and Keuka lake. There is also all the finger lakes around the area too. All within 10-35 minutes away!

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$100

/ night

Daddy's Mountain

4. Daddy's Mountain

100%

(6)

46mi from Rochester · 2 sites · RVs

Nestled in the foothills of the Northern Appalachian Mountains, "Daddy's Mountain" is so named by my younger daughter when she was a child. The property has been in the family for generations. It was part of the original Acomb Family Farm located on Acomb Road. This site offers spectacular views and breathtaking sunsets of the rolling hills of the Genesee Valley. Surrounded by beautiful farmland it has easy access to the road. A variety of wildlife can often be seen.

Pets

from

$25

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

K

Kelly

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Camp Believe It

What a great piece of property, went for just a night but it was worth it. Cabin was so nice,so quiet loved it

J

Jessi

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at Camp Believe It

Thanks for having us!! I must say your cabin was perfect! Secluded and no neighbors, much room for the dogs to run on your private, well maintained property! The cabin was extremelyclean and spacious. The wifi worked great and the big TV came in handy for the rainy day. We couldn't have asked for a cozier place to stay. We have paid more in the past for much less in other states. We can't wait to be back and enjoy the summer swims at the natural pool nearby. Thankyou for being an awesome host!! -Nick and Jessi

The Milky Way, viewed at Apple Cove on a clear September night

J

Jacob

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Apple Cove Farm

James was very welcoming and kind! We showed up as it was getting dark and he was very helpful and understanding. The land is great! It was quiet and private and well maintained. We would definitely stay here again!

N

Nicole

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Apple Cove Farm

The host was extremely welcoming. As a multi-racial family group, the atmosphere felt safe, warm and friendly. The property has been cultivated to share this special place with others while preserving habitat. We had a quick overnight while visiting Letchworth for the day. It was inspiring and all around a very positive experience.

Jenene

September 2025

13 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Daddy's Mountain

This place was exactly what we needed. I was looking for a beautiful place to put my little trailer for a couple of days with nothing to do other than read and spend time valuable with my sister. The land is meticulously cared for and manicured. Beautiful flowers and rolling hills. There were several flat places to park and the area was spotlessly clean. There was a nice fire pit with those view and a couple of shade trees. We chose our favorite one and set up the hammocks. The night sky! Oh my goodness that was ethereal! The first time I have seen the Milky Way in years. It was hard to give it up for sleep- it was that amazing. Mark was an incredible host. He answered our questions so quickly. He was extremely kind and helpful. I’m grateful he shared the land with us. One thing to note that surprised us but didn’t bother us, was that it seems the dirt road was well traveled. There were quite a few cars (and a school bus) driving by. Everyone would wave a hello. It was nice knowing there were other people around. Other than the occasional vehicle it was SO quiet. I’d definitely recommend this place for someone looking to get away from everything! Check out these views!

E

Eric

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Apple Cove Farm

Apple cove is a beautiful campground, the tent area was perfect with plenty of room. Our host James level of hospitality was amazing. We will definitely be coming back.

M

Mona

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Cozy A-Frames and Camp Vibes in NY

I liked the specific info and campsite with map taped to the window after hour. And secluded campsites. Didn’t seem like too many. About 7-9 A-frame houses that look really cute. She said they are rented on weekends, but I was there a Wednesday night, none rented. They had many RV sites on a large grassy hill and field. Nice little mowed trails. Hammock swing and coffee on the deck next to the office…. For me it was a good stay-over to break up my traveling from Michigan to Massachusetts . Economical on Hipcamp

G

Geoff

August 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Daddy's Mountain

I spent 5 days here and enjoyed it very much. The property is well maintained, with a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside. There was excellent stargazing on clear nights and several gorgeous sunsets. Marks mother in law welcomed me with some delicious cookies and then brought some elderberry jam a few days later. Lots of privacy and room for my pets to explore safely. Would recommend and hope to come back some day!

j

jesus

August 2025

Group trip

2 nights at Camp Believe It

Best camping experience i’ve ever had 10/10, cabin was beautiful trails were amazing Host was helpful & kind explained how to do many like Start a fire ect. 100% would book again

J

James

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Apple Cove Farm

I am biking cross-country. And needed a place in the general vicinity of this camp. James opened up his camp to me even though, was that there and I was the only person in camp. PIt made or a perfect night of camping

A

Andrew

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Apple Cove Farm

Really great land and hospitality from James, perfect place to camp with great and clean facilities. James was super kind, 100% recommend to visit Letchworth —which was absolutely gorgeous as well.

P

Peter

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Cozy A-Frames and Camp Vibes in NY

The A-frame was a great base for exploring the Finger Lakes region. Super comfortable bed, nice rocking chairs out front, and bathrooms/showers just a few steps away. The staff at the camp were friendly. Recommended!

S

Samuel

June 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Apple Cove Farm

James works hard and takes pride in his land super great guy very friendly and accommodating this property is off the beaten path very little road noise we loved it!

R

Ryan

May 2025

Tent

1 night at Apple Cove Farm

James had a nice, clean property and was very welcoming when we arrived. Directions were clear. He was hospitable and checked on us to make sure that we had everything we needed before settling in. Great experience overall!

C

Colin

April 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Apple Cove Farm

The campsite was great. It was very remote and quiet, no road noise, and we could hear the peepers all night. James was a great host and gave us our space while letting us know he was available if we needed anything. He also showed my son some deer antler sheddings in the morning and gave him a turkey feather he found! We only stayed for 1 night, but it was a perfect place to stay.

J

Jenna

March 2025

24 ft campervan

1 night at Daddy's Mountain

We made a last minute detour to stay and it was absolutely fantastic!

A

Alex

March 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Apple Cove Farm

absolutely amazing views, camping spots, and hospitality! firewood was delivered right to us and we even got some background on the history of Jim Thorpe. we will 100000% be back!