The best mountainous 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.

96% (225) • 23 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Syracuse

Wonderland Forest

1. Wonderland Forest

90%

(93)

12mi from Syracuse · 99 sites · Tents, RVs

Wonderland Forest is located on 400 beautiful acres that overlook New York's Apple Valley. Camp Wonderland offers primitive camping sites. Home to the historic Rattlesnake Gulf and The Blue Hole, along with other waterfalls and watering holes. Spend your days exploring!

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$70

/ night

-Windfall-

2. -Windfall-

100%

(11)

23mi from Syracuse · 2 sites

Proud to be recognized as a Hipcamp Star Host! ⭐️ Windfall is a 4.5 acre homestead tucked in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in the Finger Lakes region of New York. The property offers endless opportunities to connect with nature, from fishing or wading in Haights Creek (which runs the length of the property), to walks in the woods and a wild apple orchard, or visits with the miniature horse (Millionaire) in the animal barn. Windfall offers peace and quiet and ensures a comfortable and clean environment for campers to relax and enjoy their time in nature, and is in direct proximity (10 - 20 mins) of state forests, preserves, and hiking/skiing trails. Each campsite has its own small firepit, or you may join other campers at the main firepit near the farm side of the property. A tented "outhouse" between the campsites, with a portable outdoor toilet, is available. Minutes from Labrador Mountain, Tinker Falls, Kettlebail State Forest, and Morgan Hill State Forest, your stay at Windfall puts you in direct proximity to some of Central New York's top hiking, skiiing, snowmobiling, and wilderness opportunities. The property is 15 minutes from the Cortland/Homer area, a half hour from Syracuse, and one hour from Ithaca.

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$23

/ night

Riverfront Campsite Adventures

3. Riverfront Campsite Adventures

97%

(19)

30mi from Syracuse · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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!

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$22

/ night

Smyrna Lake Campsite

4. Smyrna Lake Campsite

96%

(36)

35mi from Syracuse · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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

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Full hookups

from

$95

/ night

Camp Earth Connection

5. Camp Earth Connection

99%

(94)

43mi from Syracuse · 20 sites · Tents, Lodging

Camp Earth Connection is located in the town of Dryden, NY just 12 miles from Ithaca, NY. Camp Earth Connection offers a relaxing stay with a variety of camping options including Log Cabins, Rustic Cabins and Tent-Sites. Camp Earth Connection is an alcohol and drug free facility, offering guests the opportunity to connect with nature and each other in a serene and beautiful natural setting. The Hammond Hill trail system, which offers hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing connects to the 950 mileFinger Lakes Trail system. Wildlife is abundant in the area. It is common to hear the Coyotes and Owls throughout the day. In addition,Mink, Fishers, Bald Eagles, Turkey Buzzards, Porcupines, Raccoons, Skunks, Wild Turkeys, Ravens, Grouse, Red and Grey Fox and an occasional Black Bear are some of the inhabitants of the local forest. Guests can choose to have some peaceful alone time or be more engaged in our small community during scheduled community campfires, campfire pancake breakfasts or workshops. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Camp Earth Connection offers a Community Saturday Morning Campfire Pancake Breakfast. Camp Earth Connection values Diversity, Acceptance and Community. It is more than just a campground, it is an experience that can be life-changing. Guests enjoy making meaningful connections with hosts, guests, family and friends. In addition they experience the beauty and healing that is provided by this sacred natural environment. Camp Earth Connection is open to everyone and provides an accepting and safe space for folks who can't always count on that, including the the LGBTQ +, BIPOC and Recovery communities as well as other culturally diverse individuals, families and groups.

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$39

/ night

Hill side field, with some woods

6. Hill side field, with some woods

100%

(10)

45mi from Syracuse · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land:We love to play music and create art with everyone, part of our property butts up against protected state forest. 16 miles from Ithaca, the finger lakes are also close by.

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Potable water

from

$17

/ night

Round Top Retreat

7. Round Top Retreat

93%

(48)

46mi from Syracuse · 1 site

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.).

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$99

/ night

5 Lamps Inn at Summerhill Brewing

8. 5 Lamps Inn at Summerhill Brewing

29mi from Syracuse · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Camp, Sip, and Stay at Five Lamps on the Summerhill Brewing Property Nestled in the rolling hills of the Finger Lakes and just steps from Summerhill Brewing, our scenic 20-acre property is the perfect place to camp, glamp, and unwind. Wake up to birdsong and fresh air, wander peaceful nature trails, and take in panoramic views and unforgettable sunsets. Whether you're pitching a tent, parking your camper, or staying at our cozy glampsite, you'll have space to relax and recharge—while being close to all the action. Centrally located between Ithaca and Syracuse and just 15 minutes from Cortland you'll experience all of the rural charm without compromising on the necessities. And just a short stroll away? Craft brews, yummy eats, and live music all summer long at our on-site brewery.

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$50

/ night

Luisa Woods

9. Luisa Woods

33mi from Syracuse · 1 site · Tent, RV

built in 2006 lost luisa to cancer in 2013 ....it all about her 💖🪶 Learn more about this land: Tent camping; cabin nearby for emergencies. note that camping inside the cabin is not permitted only on the decks the lower deck and the upper deck this reason is for shelter From the elements.... the Outhouse on the deck is not for public use except for an extreme emergencies I'm try to have yourself some kind of portable toilet or dig a hole.... a porta potty is available at no extra cost but if you feel it you have to empty it and maintain its cleanliness

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Electrical hookup

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from

$43

/ night

Firelight Camps

10. Firelight Camps

48mi from Syracuse · 22 sites

Our campgrounds stand out for their commitment to low-impact infrastructure and natural landscaping, which not only preserve the beauty of rural and wild properties but also enhance the guest experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings while enjoying a range of outdoor activities, from guided hikes to wine tours, all designed to celebrate the local culture and support the economy. Each camp is thoughtfully designed to reflect its unique environment, ensuring a strong sense of place. Central to our camps is the inviting fire circle, where guests can forge meaningful connections with family, friends, and the community. We honor the traditional camping experience, allowing guests to drift off to the soothing sounds of bullfrogs and awaken to the cheerful chorus of birds. Our camps provide a serene escape, where the gentle patter of rain on canvas and the warmth of a crackling campfire create unforgettable memories. We invite both seasoned campers and first-timers to relax and embrace the natural beauty around them, all while enjoying a comfortable and clean atmosphere that inspires adventure and exploration.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$249

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$43

/ night

Firelight Camps

10. Firelight Camps

48mi from Syracuse · 22 sites

Our campgrounds stand out for their commitment to low-impact infrastructure and natural landscaping, which not only preserve the beauty of rural and wild properties but also enhance the guest experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings while enjoying a range of outdoor activities, from guided hikes to wine tours, all designed to celebrate the local culture and support the economy. Each camp is thoughtfully designed to reflect its unique environment, ensuring a strong sense of place. Central to our camps is the inviting fire circle, where guests can forge meaningful connections with family, friends, and the community. We honor the traditional camping experience, allowing guests to drift off to the soothing sounds of bullfrogs and awaken to the cheerful chorus of birds. Our camps provide a serene escape, where the gentle patter of rain on canvas and the warmth of a crackling campfire create unforgettable memories. We invite both seasoned campers and first-timers to relax and embrace the natural beauty around them, all while enjoying a comfortable and clean atmosphere that inspires adventure and exploration.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$249

/ 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.

P

Paul

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hill side field, with some woods

Jennifer was a perfect host and I highly recommend this site for everyone.

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!

C

Claire

October 2025

17 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hill side field, with some woods

We parked our campervan in Jennifer’s driveway for the night. It was easy to get to and level. In the morning I walked the mown trail on the property with our dog- beautiful and peaceful!

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!

K

Kylie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to -Windfall-

stayed at windfall for only a night but it was so fun!! the area by the stream is so pretty, and relaxing at night. they provided us with the little things we forgot haha and were always asking if we needed anything. Wendy, Ty’s mom, showed us around their home- which included giving us fresh produce and seeing their animals. They also recommended fishing spots around the area. We really liked this area, especially in the fall, the towns surrounding it were super quaint and the people were kind. Do not forget your food like we did cause there are not many restaurants/ grocery stores surrounding the area!!!! if you are looking for a place that to get away i highly 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!

D

Dale

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hill side field, with some woods

Beautiful place to camp! Site is quiet and peaceful. Host was very friendly.

K

Karen

September 2025

22 ft campervan

1 night at Hill side field, with some woods

We enjoyed boon docking on Jennifer's land. It was very quiet! Jennifer invited us to take the well-maintained trail that circled her 52 acres of land and it was lovely. We would definitely stay again.

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!!

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

s

sung

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at -Windfall-

it was a fantastic 2 days trip the host was so nice to give me organic jam for morning toast and organic vinegar that they made! i was so relaxed and happy all the time i was there! i also went to finger lakes regions from there was a near drive! I would like to come back here again thanks to the host!

Y

Yvonne

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Camp Earth Connection

Our one-room cabin with electricity was cozy and quiet. When we went to the bathhouse, the showers and toilets were very clean. We would definitely visit Susan's land again in the future.

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.

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!

K

Kori

August 2025

19 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Smyrna Lake Campsite

The campsite was beautiful and had everything we needed. The hosts were friendly and helpful as well.

Theresa

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Round Top Retreat

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.

R

Ruth

August 2025

15 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Smyrna Lake Campsite

Pitch black and silent for sleeping Always use the GPS to find your way. Beautiful fire pit area The lake is downslope from the camping spot with the 30 amp power hookup. It was just what we needed after a big, exciting wedding.

R

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at -Windfall-

Our family (with little kids) absolutely loved Ty’s Pine Grove tent site. We all played in the creek and walked the trail. We had complete privacy. No cell phone service was a great addition. We can’t wait to book for longer next time!!!

J

Jeff

July 2025

Tent

1 night at -Windfall-

Very private and quiet. Went to see some meteors and meteorites, but rain cancelled that. Would choose again.