The best big rig friendly campgrounds near Syracuse, New York

Sitting on the thumb of the Finger Lakes, Salt City is a gateway to the awesome nature of upstate New York. Syracuse is roughly halfway between Niagara Falls and the Adirondacks for easy side trips. But this small city has its own claim on natural beauty with lakes, forests, and farms. The New York State Fair sets up its tents here, covering the 375-acre grounds with horse shows, butter sculptures, and deep-fried Oreos.

Winter brings snow--and lots of it. Locals grumble, but the deep white makes for killer cross-country skiing. Highland Forest park bills itself as the Adirondacks of Central New York with 40 miles of trails, half of them groomed. Beaver Lake Nature Center boasts a warming hut and snow-shoe rentals.

The closest public camp is Green Lakes State Park in Fayetteville. Two emerald-green glacial lakes are its centerpiece, where you can rent a rowboat or swim off the sandy beach. Tent camping is set back from the lakes amid pine trees, with options for cabins and RV camping. There's also an 18-hole course by Robert Trent Jones, a legendary golf course architect.

The old Erie Canal passes right by Green Lakes. The canal turned Syracuse into a thriving city. At the Erie Canal Museum in downtown Syracuse, visitors can go deep on its history.

Today, kayakers have free rein in the canal's retired sections. Try launching in Dewitt at Cedar Bay Park, then paddle 10 miles to the Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum. The route is especially scenic in autumn when the turning leaves are a blazing canopy on the shore.

The Finger Lakes are close by, and Cayuga Lake State Park makes a good home base to dip in your toes. The park campground has cabins near the shore and hilltop tent sites. Boat launches are on the beach, and the waters are quite good for catching largemouth bass. Over a dozen vineyards and wineries are a short drive away.

Most state park campgrounds will accommodate trailers, but big rigs wanting full hook-ups should check out RV parks in the area. Several offer extra amenities such as free Wi-Fi, swimming, and boat launches.

85% (49)

Top-rated campgrounds near Syracuse

Sitting on the thumb of the Finger Lakes, Salt City is a gateway to the awesome nature of upstate New York. Syracuse is roughly halfway between Niagara Falls and the Adirondacks for easy side trips. But this small city has its own claim on natural beauty with lakes, forests, and farms. The New York State Fair sets up its tents here, covering the 375-acre grounds with horse shows, butter sculptures, and deep-fried Oreos.

Winter brings snow--and lots of it. Locals grumble, but the deep white makes for killer cross-country skiing. Highland Forest park bills itself as the Adirondacks of Central New York with 40 miles of trails, half of them groomed. Beaver Lake Nature Center boasts a warming hut and snow-shoe rentals.

The closest public camp is Green Lakes State Park in Fayetteville. Two emerald-green glacial lakes are its centerpiece, where you can rent a rowboat or swim off the sandy beach. Tent camping is set back from the lakes amid pine trees, with options for cabins and RV camping. There's also an 18-hole course by Robert Trent Jones, a legendary golf course architect.

The old Erie Canal passes right by Green Lakes. The canal turned Syracuse into a thriving city. At the Erie Canal Museum in downtown Syracuse, visitors can go deep on its history.

Today, kayakers have free rein in the canal's retired sections. Try launching in Dewitt at Cedar Bay Park, then paddle 10 miles to the Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum. The route is especially scenic in autumn when the turning leaves are a blazing canopy on the shore.

The Finger Lakes are close by, and Cayuga Lake State Park makes a good home base to dip in your toes. The park campground has cabins near the shore and hilltop tent sites. Boat launches are on the beach, and the waters are quite good for catching largemouth bass. Over a dozen vineyards and wineries are a short drive away.

Most state park campgrounds will accommodate trailers, but big rigs wanting full hook-ups should check out RV parks in the area. Several offer extra amenities such as free Wi-Fi, swimming, and boat launches.

85% (49)

Top-rated campgrounds near Syracuse

1. Hillside Haven

93%

(30)

47mi from Syracuse · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Hillside Haven is a small, private campground nestled in-between Cayuga and Seneca Lakes. 5 miles from the heart of Trumansburg, and 6 miles from the Seneca Wine Trail. The property borders over 1000 acres of National Forest. With 14 RV sites, we offer wifi , Electric with water, also dry camping, we do have a dump station. Full Hook Up will become available, site dependant, after June 15, 2025. *Not all sites will offer Full Hookup* There is a play set on site for our younger friends. Dogs welcome. Limit 2 per site and must be leashed at ALL times.

2. Junius Ponds Cabin and Campground

85%

(10)

42mi from Syracuse · 58 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

If you’re looking for a peaceful campground setting with a family-friendly atmosphere, and tons of activities, then Junius Ponds Cabins & Campground is the perfect spot for you! Join us by pitching a tent, renting a cabin, or by parking your RV. We’ve got sites you will fall in love with after just one stay that will make you want to start a family tradition. Whether you are just passing through or planning a vacation with us you will not be disappointed with your stay. We simply offer the best camping experience you can have within the Finger Lakes location, complete with camping amenities and a broad selection of camping activities. There is something to do for everyone, check out our activities for our different weekend events.

3. indian hills

100%

(8)

42mi from Syracuse · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

One 30amp and a 110v receptacle may be available for $10 extra per night. A small cabin with air mattress may also be available but please check availability first and bring your own bedding and linens. Don't forget the bug spray. In warmer weather the bugs can be quite brutal. Learn more about this land: This location receives approximately 300 inches of snow per year starting anytime around October through March. Site is available for camping from April or May through the first snowfall. Typically in late October or November. Seven miles South is the Redfield Reservoir with public boat launches great fishing swimming kayaking Etc. No animals allowed without prior permission and must have tick treatments.

4. Lake Bluff Campground

50%

(4)

42mi from Syracuse · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nestled near the blue waters of Lake Ontario in northern New York, Lake Bluff Campground is a family-oriented Wayne County campground located just one mile from Chimney Bluffs State Park. Bring the whole family and truly get away from the push and pull of your everyday life! Whether you stay for a day, a weekend, a month, or longer, our Lake Ontario RV resort is the ideal place for your next family vacation, romantic weekend getaway, or family reunion. We have tent spaces and cabins available, as well. The campground offers your choice from a total of 140 open or wooded RV sites, including 6 pull-thru sites and 100 with full hook-ups. All sites include water and electric, and our full hook-up sites include water, electric, and sewer. All of our sites can accommodate double slideouts. We offer a separate, more wooded camping area, with water and electric (dump station available), and can accommodate up to 40′ units. Two of these sites offer 50-amp service! Many of our tenting guests prefer this area, as it is wooded and private. We also have cabin rentals for those who would like to leave all the gear behind! When you arrive at Lake Bluff Campground near Sodus Bay, you are going to wish you could stay forever! We have created a camping haven for you and your family – one where you will feel like you are among old friends! Our RV park has 53 short-term sites, 84 full hookup seasonal sites, 2 tent sites, & 4 cabins. Select “Check Availability” above to book online today!

5. Lazy Paddle Cove at Stump Pond

100%

(4)

42mi from Syracuse · 1 site · Tent, RV

Easy Days, Starry Nights and Smooth Waters on this private lakeside site. Water and Electric hookup available. Easy in and out with half circular gravel driveway. Bring your Kayak (motor boats restricted on lake) and fishing gear or relax with a book and lounge chair.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

E

Evan

November 2025

23 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hillside Haven

Host was super helpful and kind. Great hiking trails and wonderful location. The playground was a nice bonus and the bathrooms and showers were clean.

K

Kelly

October 2025

24 ft Class C

3 nights at Hillside Haven

We stayed during mid-week so campground was extra quiet. Restrooms are brand new and sites were well spaced. Camp host was accommodating and helpful.

C

Cooney

October 2025

42 ft fifth wheel

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lazy Paddle Cove at Stump Pond

Great site! It felt very private and was easy to find. Nice to have direct water access to launch our kayaks and get some paddling in. Our dogs were very happy too!

Georgette

October 2025

42 ft fifth wheel

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lazy Paddle Cove at Stump Pond

Great site! Right on the water, easy access to pond for kayaking. Host is very responsive. Road is close but was pretty quiet at night. We had a great time and our dogs loved swimming.

C

Courtney

October 2025

22 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Hillside Haven

The spot was great, bathrooms and showers were clean. There was a problem with the water pressure in the AM but it was quickly fixed and the hosts personally let us know. Will be staying again!

P

Phyllis

October 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Hillside Haven

The campground only has about a dozen or so spots. It was a pleasant space. It was a good place to stay 20 minutes to Ithaca. Shower could be larger (clean enough). Good price we were left alone and we left satisfied.

M

Megan

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hillside Haven

Really nice and clean campground! Beautiful sunrises and foggy fall morning views. Bathrooms were very clean!

L

Lindsey

October 2025

35 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hillside Haven

I liked that it was quiet and conveniently located close to taughannock falls.

Shawna

October 2025

35 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to indian hills

My husband and I had the pleasure of being the first hip camp guests! What an amazing experience! We were so happy to visit this hidden gem! It is underdevelopment so it’s under a tad of construction. However this little gem is definitely one I would visit again. Joe was an amazing host and stayed up late for us after a small embarrassing navigation on my part(pfft truck driver getting lost lmbo) I would overall say the experience was amazing. I wouldn’t bring tiny humans… like I said still under development and the ponds… being a hover craft mom still for my adult children. But as a doggie mom my dogs loved it! Thanks again Joe!

L

Laura

September 2025

19 ft campervan

1 night at Junius Ponds Cabin and Campground

We enjoyed our site at junius ponds. It was further back in a more private wooded area. Easy access to the restrooms and showers. Both were very clean while we were there. Very friendly staff called to confirm when we booked a second night. They have a store and soft serve ice cream on site. Makes camping easy!

K

Kelly

September 2025

22 ft Class B

With pets

2 nights at Hillside Haven

Our stay was great because the camp site was easy to access independently and it was clean, quiet and exactly what we expected! The young owners were eager to make everyone feel comfortable and satisfied with the bathrooms and showers (which were clean and comfortable with nice hot showers ) we walked our dogs in a beautiful field with mowed paths. Close to State Park and interesting day trips in the finger lakes! We will return!

C

Cinders

September 2025

31 ft Class C

3 nights at Lazy Paddle Cove at Stump Pond

We enjoyed staying at Stup Pond. We had lovely views and nice weather. There was a bit of traffic noise because its near the road but was quiet at night.

C

Casey

September 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hillside Haven

What a peaceful little haven on a hillside! We had a wonderful weekend and would highly recommend. Rebecca helped us find the best site to camp with our tent and made sure our party of three sites were well situated. The bathrooms were lovely and clean. Highly recommend!

S

Sandra

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Hillside Haven

Nice, clean small camp ground that was very relaxing and quiet. Nice sized sites. Perfect place to get away from city lights and noise but near all the Finger Lakes fun and adventure.

D

Dan

August 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hillside Haven

Was a nice and quiet campground. Lots of room to get the dogs out and enjoy the nice weather.

Savanna

August 2025

27 ft travel trailer

1 night at Junius Ponds Cabin and Campground

We had a wonderful stay at Junius Ponds Campground! The sites were clean and well-kept. The location made it easy to explore the surrounding area, yet it still felt peaceful and relaxing. Amenities were well-maintained, and everything worked just as expected. We’d happily stay again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great campground experience.

G

Gregory

August 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hillside Haven

Hidden gem! We'll be back. Good site for Bills backers too!

B

Bob

August 2025

22 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Hillside Haven

Very peaceful and quiet site. Clean bath house. Definitely recommend.

M

Maryanne

August 2025

26 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Junius Ponds Cabin and Campground

Well maintained large campground with lots of seasonal units. As an overnighter, we were placed in the very back of the campground. It was beautiful and quiet. Lots of weekend activities going on with soft serve ice cream available in the camp store. 😋 Our WE site was only big enough for our 25’ motorhome which was fine. Bathrooms were a little walk away but immaculate.