The best luxury RV 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.

87% (347)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

87% (347)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Riverfront Campsite Adventures

97%

(19)

30mi from Syracuse · 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!

2. Underhill Forest and Farm

99%

(454)

40mi from Syracuse · 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.

3. Junius Ponds Cabin and Campground

85%

(10)

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

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.

4. Shady Shores Campground

36mi from Syracuse · 9 sites · RVs, Lodging · Sterling, NY

Nestled along the scenic south shore of Lake Ontario, Shady Shores RV Park & Resort offers a serene escape in the Sterling/Fair Haven area of New York. With picturesque waterfront views of Lake Ontario and Blind Sodus Bay, our resort is ideally located between Syracuse and Rochester. From family-friendly fun to relaxing activities, Shady Shores is dedicated to providing the perfect getaway for everyone. Ready to unwind by the lake? Give us a call and plan your stay with us today! Whether you’re seeking a peaceful lakeside retreat or a family-friendly adventure, Shady Shores has a range of accommodations to suit your needs. From classic tent camping near the shores of Lake Ontario to RV sites and cozy cabins, we provide the best family camping experience in New York’s beautiful upstate region.

5. Robinia in Glenwood

100%

(20)

43mi from Syracuse · 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. Smyrna Lake Campsite

96%

(36)

35mi from Syracuse · 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

7. Lake Bluff Campground

50%

(4)

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

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!

8. Taste Of Heaven Campground

100%

(1)

46mi from Syracuse · 1 site · Tent, RV · New Berlin, NY

This gorgeous campground is uniquely located on the Brookfield Trail System-130 miles of wooded trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, bird watching, cross country skiing, and snowmobiling. Please note we have many different sites at different price points, so please reserve here: book.letsbonfire.com/tasteofheaven Or Call: 503 890 8068 We have cabins with electricity and TV monitors, 40 RV sites with electric, tent sites, bathrooms, showers, and a restaurant. Come and enjoy nature as well as the culinary skills of the proprietor, whose restaurant is known for its family-friendly camaraderie as well as its food. Shoot a game of pool and enjoy a delicious meal after a long day in the woods. Call 503 890 8068 or book on book.letsbonfire.com/tasteofheaven (or visit our fb page: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563015123756)

Camper favorites near Syracuse

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Shady Shores Campground

36mi from Syracuse · 9 sites · RVs, Lodging · Sterling, NY

Nestled along the scenic south shore of Lake Ontario, Shady Shores RV Park & Resort offers a serene escape in the Sterling/Fair Haven area of New York. With picturesque waterfront views of Lake Ontario and Blind Sodus Bay, our resort is ideally located between Syracuse and Rochester. From family-friendly fun to relaxing activities, Shady Shores is dedicated to providing the perfect getaway for everyone. Ready to unwind by the lake? Give us a call and plan your stay with us today! Whether you’re seeking a peaceful lakeside retreat or a family-friendly adventure, Shady Shores has a range of accommodations to suit your needs. From classic tent camping near the shores of Lake Ontario to RV sites and cozy cabins, we provide the best family camping experience in New York’s beautiful upstate region.

Robinia in Glenwood

100%

(20)

43mi from Syracuse · 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.

Smyrna Lake Campsite

96%

(36)

35mi from Syracuse · 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

Lake Bluff Campground

50%

(4)

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

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!

Taste Of Heaven Campground

100%

(1)

46mi from Syracuse · 1 site · Tent, RV · New Berlin, NY

This gorgeous campground is uniquely located on the Brookfield Trail System-130 miles of wooded trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, bird watching, cross country skiing, and snowmobiling. Please note we have many different sites at different price points, so please reserve here: book.letsbonfire.com/tasteofheaven Or Call: 503 890 8068 We have cabins with electricity and TV monitors, 40 RV sites with electric, tent sites, bathrooms, showers, and a restaurant. Come and enjoy nature as well as the culinary skills of the proprietor, whose restaurant is known for its family-friendly camaraderie as well as its food. Shoot a game of pool and enjoy a delicious meal after a long day in the woods. Call 503 890 8068 or book on book.letsbonfire.com/tasteofheaven (or visit our fb page: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563015123756)

Stories from the community

V

Virginia

October 2025

26 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Smyrna Lake Campsite

We stayed in a 26' trailer, and the hookups were excellent. If you have dogs with good recall, this is the perfect place. Being able to let them off leash was so appreciated. The lake was beautiful and crystal clear. Our dogs loved swimming, and we enjoyed paddle boarding. Next time we’ll come earlier in the season so we have more daylight to enjoy everything. Very private. Thank you, Roberto!

Zach

October 2025

17 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Smyrna Lake Campsite

This place is awesome! Perfect for camping with a trailer. All the hookups you need plus WiFi! Quiet and private tucked back in the woods. The lake is really calm and peaceful. Roberto checked to make sure we were all set and definitely takes care of this place. 10/10 recommend!

W

WILLIAM

October 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Smyrna Lake Campsite

This spot exactly as described. Very private but everything here and well laid out. The walk to the lake is a bit steep but 110% worth it if you like to fish or be by water. We caught at least a dozen largemouth bass, several 10-12 inches, a yellow perch and several large pumpkinseeds. RV Site is gravel and damn near perfectly level. Couldn’t ask for much better, appreciate Roberto and his family are willing to to share this very nice location, A+ Hipcamp!

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!

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

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! 🌿🔥✨

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!

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.

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.

C

Colin

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Robinia in Glenwood

This was a perfect place to camp outside of Ithaca! Krys is incredibly welcoming and made staying so easy. The bonfire site is large, and has lots of shaded areas for you to set up in. She has chairs and tables that you can move to your campsite, and there is plenty of firewood! There were almost no mosquitoes which was a pleasant surprise! We liked exploring the paths through her property, and felt comfortable letting our 7 year old wander on his own. We would absolutely go back to stay here.

J

Jesse

August 2025

15 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Smyrna Lake Campsite

Perfect spot for a weekend get away. We didn’t swim in the lake but the dog sure loved it. Clean area, quiet neighbors, easy to get to.

Pitch your tent in the back yard under the apple tree, where you can hear the brook babble in season.

Roxanne

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Robinia in Glenwood

Krys was very communicative and answered all my questions prior to arrival. She greeted us when we arrived. The grass had been freshly mowed and the campsite locations were large. We needed to be near Ithaca and Cayuga Lake and this was the perfect location.

E

Erika

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Riverfront Campsite Adventures

Vivian was an amazing host. She sent coordinates that led us right to the campsite. We were pleasantly surprised to see that she provided us with some wood for our campfire.. Having water at the site was a bonus and loved having the picnic table there too. Thank you for the wonderful night.

P

Peter

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Robinia in Glenwood

Nice place, clean and remote, yet close enough to town to visit.