The best camping near Cayuga Lake State Park

The highlight of this 188-acre park is its view of Cayuga Lake, the longest of the Finger Lakes. Drive the 87-mile scenic byway loop or boat or paddle along the 40-mile long lake. Located at the top of a gently rolling hill above the lake, the campground offers more than 250 campsites, 14 cabins, and a cottage, making it easy for campers to take advantage of the park’s many attractions, including a swim beach, boat launch, nature trails, playground, playing fields, picnic tables and pavilions. The lake is a great spot for fishing, including ice fishing in winter, when cross-country skiing is also popular.

• Best for RVs and lake access: The East Camp of the Cayuga Lake State Park Campground offers electric hookups and is the closest to the lake.
• Best for families: The Carp loop in the West Camp is located closest to the playground.
• Best for comfort: The cottage offers space for eight and includes a full kitchen, bathroom with hot shower, heat, and an enclosed porch.

1. You must have a reservation to camp. Book a site as soon as you know your dates. Reservations can be made up to nine months in advance.
2. If you’re planning to camp between mid May and Columbus Day, reservations can be made the same day up to 3pm.
3. Campsites may be reserved for one night only, while cabins and the cottage require a two-night minimum in the off-season, and a week or longer during the peak season. 

The park is open year-round but the campground is only open from late April to October. Vehicle entrance fees are collected from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The beach is open from the end of June through Labor Day. Peak season generally runs from late June to the last Sunday before Labor Day, and will see the largest crowds, along with longer minimum stays for cabins and the cottage. Winter activities like ice fishing and cross-country skiing are weather dependent, so check the weather before finalizing plans.

• Lifeguards are only on duty during peak season.
• Fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older.
• Highway noise can be an issue at the campground.
• Accessible facilities include the cottage, pavilions, restrooms and showers, boat launches, and swimming beach.
• Pets are not allowed in buildings, cabins, playgrounds, or guarded beaches. Pets are permitted in some camping loops. Mandatory certificate of rabies is required.
• Small-game hunting is permitted from a boat in late season only, with appropriate licenses.
• Do not bring firewood from more than 50 miles away from the park.