Best Camping in and near Taughannock Falls State Park

100% (7 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Taughannock Falls State Park adventure.

Camp in the shadows of one of New York’s best waterfalls.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Taughannock Falls State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Taughannock Falls State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Taughannock Falls State Park

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(129)

Ithaca Artsy Bunkhouse

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Ithaca, NY

Stay in our cozy, heated and well insulated, artsy cabin. We're located on a quiet woodsy dead end street with tons of bird life and acres of nature to enjoy. Walking trails are right out the back gate! There is also frog pond and campfire pits to enjoy. Marshmallows and roasting sticks provided. The bunkhouse is less than 2 miles to the center of Ithaca where there is plenty to do! including taking advantage of the new bike share program and waterfront trails. Definitely come hungry, Ithaca has more restaurants per capita than NYC and LA.!! Were also just 12 min across town to Cornell University and Ithaca College and 5-20 minutes from numerous amazing waterfalls. The available half bathroom is in the main house, just seconds from the cabin and is open to use 24 hrs. The heated bunkhouse has 2 twin mattresses in the loft, and several blankets and pillows, but you need to BRING YOUR OWN SHEETS and pillow CASES as you wish. Firewood is $5 per fire, starters materials included, marshmallows are in the end table drawer! There are roasting sticks near the cabin door and out by the far fire pit. You can select the campfire wood option here or pay in cash in the cabin. Feel free to bring your own fire wood and pay nothing to enjoy a campfire. if you need any help starting a fire, we can help. We have a sweet fluffy orange cat who roams the property. His name is kitty kitty :) He's fearful of dogs, and is wary of visitors since they might be harboring one! If you have a pup with you, please keep them leashed at least around the main house and cabin. We are also have a very sweet dog, Beya-- (pronounced Bay-yuh). She is the nicest person you'd hope to meet and although she may bark a little the first time you come in to use the bathroom she's just letting us know you have arrived- and will be very happy to have you greet her. She doesn't jump up, growl, or have any negative behavior with people --other than getting underfoot in the kitchen!. There isn't a shower included in the stay unless you are here for multiple days and have spoken with us about it...but you can definitely wash up with hot water and soap, in the half bath --hand towel provided. The cabin has air conditioning for summer use so no worries about being too warm to sleep well. (and of course there is electric heat in the winter) The location is Beautiful in all seasons! Cross country skiing is possible in the winter but bring your own gear. ** We have also have for sale our just published 100 Things To Do In Ithaca before You Die-- book, let us know if you want one and we can have one ready for you upon your arrival. 18$ ---see the photo and blurb in photo section of our listing If there's something else you need for your stay, just ask! We are pretty flexible and can probably help out.

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(11)

A-Frame In The Woods

1 site · Lodging12 acres · Dundee, NY

Welcome to your serene primitive campsite, perfect for a getaway and nestled right on the Finger Lakes wine trail. Enjoy the tranquility of this off-grid experience with a view of Seneca Lake from the hill. Key Features: -Primitive Camping Experience: Embrace the simplicity of off-grid living with no running water, detached outhouse for your convenience, and no electric amenities. This is a true escape into nature. -Cozy A-Frame Shelter: Find comfort in the contained A-frame shelter, featuring a queen-size loft mattress. Bring your own bedding. -Wood Stove and Campfire: Warm up inside by the wood stove or gather around a cozy campfire outside. It's the perfect way to create lasting memories with your loved ones. -Scenic Surroundings: Take in the beauty of the Finger Lakes wine trail and the stunning view of Seneca Lake from the hill. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the peaceful surroundings and the opportunity to reconnect with the outdoors. -4-wheel drive vehicle recommended if you want to drive straight to the A-frame. There is the option to park in the parking lot by the road and walk a couple hundred yards across the field to the A-frame. This primitive campsite invites you to step away from the hustle and bustle, allowing you to unwind, bond with family, and savor the simplicity of nature. Bring your own camping supplies, cooking materials, and a sense of adventure for an unforgettable off-grid camping experience.

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(38)

Round Top Retreat

1 site · Lodging101 acres · Richford, NY

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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Waterfall Creek

6 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Millport, NY

This is a beautiful piece of property located in the heart of the Finger Lakes and Wine Country of NY. It features a stunning spring fed waterfall and nice forest land. Very close to town but also very secluded and private. Great place to unwind and relax from our everyday lives. It is situated however in a gully next to a creek and waterfall so it is susceptible to heavy rains. It is recommended to at least have an AWD vehicle if rainy. I can usually help campers with getting to the site in my side X side if you need to park up at the pasture. Please order enough wood initially as I have found I spend a lot of time delivering extra wood to campers. It seems as if you will typically go through 2 bundles per night on average. Also I supply a contractor size garbage bag to you if you choose garbage removal. It is also a good idea to text me when you have a solid ETA so I can be here to take you to the site. I want to mention that the two sites closest to the waterfall are a slight hike in and can only accommodate up to 4 person tents so if a bigger group or vehicle camping you will be placed at another site. Hope to see you soon. Ken

Happy Pastures Campground

7 sites · Lodging, Tents3 acres · Tully, NY

Nestled in the Finger Lakes, Happy Pastures Campground is a place where families can come and stay for a day, a week, a month or even a season. The campground is located between Skaneateles and Otisco Lakes in the town of Spafford. Our mission is to provide a fun, family-oriented getaway, providing opportunities for families to reconnect with nature and agriculture. With an on-site barn and a mixture of animals in pastures, families will have the opportunity to care for and feed the animals at designated chore times. Scheduled guided hayrides to Fesko Dairy’s family operated dairy farm a mile down the road will provide opportunities to engage with the farmer and staff about modern day agricultural practices. During the camping season, programs will be provided at the campground lodge and barn. Programs will cover a variety of topics designed to incorporate agriculture and nature. Such topics can include gardening, fishing, animal husbandry, outdoor cooking, bird watching, using nature and animals to reduce stress, and many others. Our goal at Happy Pastures Campground is to have campers leave with a better understanding of agriculture and nature while gaining a greater appreciation for where their food comes from and the ecosystem it grows in.

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(388)

ZiegenVine Homestead

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents103 acres · Savona, NY

Our property is a 103 acre farm located in Savona, NY - offering Goat Yoga on the Homestead May - September. Be sure to check our website for scheduled dates or schedule a private session. Nature, belonging and freedom is a gift everyone deserves, so it's our mission to share our blessings humbly and earnestly with all. At ZiegenVine Homestead, we promise to provide a simple, cheerful, beautiful property where you can experience life outdoors and nature in its true glory. We invite you to walks the trails around the property and visit our goat herd, as well as meet the rest of our farm animals. ZiegenVine Homestead Restoration. Reconnection. Exploration.

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(144)

Valley View Camp

11 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Montour Falls, NY

WE ALLOW A MAXIMIUM OF 4 CAMPING GROUPS AT A TIME. We have 8 sites to choose from but, due to Town rules more than 4 camping any given night is tooo many. So, 4 acres 4 camping groups. We are advertising a "RUSTIC CAMPING EXPERIENCE". This isn't the state or county owned or run site. We want you to come and be clean and considerate and have a great experience! I walked many lots over the previous several years and this pasture was perfect. This location is a work in progress. The pictures are over a few years and when you get there the hay could be high, it could have just been cut. The reviews and some pictures begin 3 years ago 3 days after we went online. Work the reviews in reverse to see newest reviews.

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(87)

Yost Ridge in the Finger Lakes

2 sites · RVs1 acre · Waterloo, NY

This peaceful, private RV camp site has ... - FULL HOOKUP site, with 110, 30 amp and 50 amp electrical outlets - WIFI - POTABLE WELL WATER (65psi) - SEPTIC TANK, - LARGE DRIVEWAY ENTRANCE - LEVEL PARKING Park however it suits you for getting the best views. It's easy to back in or out with big rigs and trailers from the quiet road . The driveway entrance is extra large. There's plenty of space for a boat, trailer or second vehicle. This is a perfect place for fishing, kayaking, bicycling, kite flying, hiking, wine trailing or relaxing at the well-maintained fire pit in the Adirondack chairs. (Local firewood is for sale in the area.) Sunrise and sunset are spectacular here and stargazers will be delighted with the expansive views. Amish carriages and work horses are common sites. YOST RIDGE is located between Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lakes ("Trout fishing capital of the World") in the Finger Lakes wine country, and is just a short distance from numerous wineries; Swedish Hill, Knapp Vineyards, Three Brothers, Ventosa, Buttonwood Grove, and Hosmer wineries. Also located nearby are the National Women's Hall of Fame, and many state parks, including Cayuga Lake State Park, Seneca Lake State Park, Taughannock Falls State Park, Watkins Glen State Park, Buttermilk Fall State Park, within just a few minutes of this site.

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(225)

Tempest Ranch camp

12 sites · Lodging40 acres · Beaver Dams, NY

40 secluded acres with 1850 feet of clear stream with a great swimming hole. Our fenced fields with sheds boarders 9100 acres Sugar Hill State Forest, hiking trails and a dirt seasonal road that connects to other dirt roads. We have a mature pine forest grove that you can pick a spot to camp next to,or walk our creek and find a cleared spot to tent or just sleep next to campfire. We have been here 20 years improving what was run down, and continue to add a few pines and special private site for great memories! Our sites sit along meads creek which is nice to sit and relax in. At the bridge along maple lane is a very fun swimming hole ,which has been so nice all summer let your dog swim with you and have a nice float .we have a picnic tabel and fire ring at most sites . We are constantly making new fun sites to enjoy . fire-ring and outhouse! We have a pond to feed fish and explore on a canoe or bring tubes .always horses and donkeys to see . I have 1850 foot of stream to hike along and explore wildlife.turkey,deer,fox the occasional coyotes howling . We have been getting eagles.few bear sightings. ..we have .some pretty private spots along the creek . And under the pine tree grove.we border 9100 acres of sugar hill state Forrest. Trails everywhere. Twelve miles of back dirt roads to get to Watkins Glen state park. 7 miles to the Glen race track .twelve miles to a great dirt track to see racing.we can accommodate horse camping ,either by ride ins or trailers with pASTURES TO PULL INTO. ! This site borders sugar hill state Forrest! Twelve miles to Watkins glen

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(11)

Creekside Cabin

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · NY

20 acres of pristine meandering woodland. Enjoy the deck overlooking the trees, climb up the 40 foot tower if you're feeling brave or just relax on a hammock looking up into the canopy. Go for a hike in the woods by the creek or sit out by the pond. Enjoy a bonfire in the large bonfire pit, a smaller campfire closer to the cabin at night or enjoy the stars far from any city lights. Cabin has propane powered fridge, oven/stovetop, coffee maker and light fixtures. Solar powered battery provides enough power to charge phones and basic appliances. Get away from the hustle and bustle of civilization. This place has so much to offer you'll never be bored.

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(35)

Bramble Hill

3 sites · Tents22 acres · Fabius, NY

Bramble Hill is situated in beautiful Central New York just off Route 20- Cherry Valley Turnpike and between the quaint villages of Cazenovia and Skaneateles. Beak and Skiff Apple Orchard is a 20 minute drive for after concert camping. Our close proximity to Syracuse and Ithaca is convenient for our guests. Please google map the address vs using the Hipcamp directions. We lease some of our property to local farmers but otherwise the land is in a relatively natural state. We enjoy the blue birds and other wildlife, our gardens and the views, and hope you will too! Bramble Hill is also available for family and wedding related photo shoots and you'll see some of these photos that showcase the property. Please note that photos are from over the years and changes may have occurred. Feel free to ask questions about the site. Pitch your tent on a quiet hillside overlooking the majestic green hills of CNY. After a day on trails, paddling, swimming, antiquing or taking in the quaint nearby villages or a local concert, return to your own private sanctuary with spectacular sunsets and gentle breezes to lull you to sleep. If you are looking for a place to unwind, unplug, relax and connect with nature, you have found the place. We love to see your photos of your campsite. Please feel free to post!

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(246)

Towner's Country Paradise

4 sites · Lodging, Tents500 acres · Addison, NY

Towner's Country Paradise started out as a wild forest and pasture for cows in the 1940's, owned by Llewellyn Towner. In the 1960s, Llewellyn's love for aviation led him to construct a small airstrip and hangar, and then his son Terry began to plant Christmas Trees (no more cows) and clear much of the land. By the early 1970's our main and largest pond was built and since that time our fully functional cabin, several more fish ponds, roads, trails, running water and generated electricity have been added. Christmas Trees are still grown and harvested by Terry's son Scott Towner. Green rolling hills, deep valleys, a waterfall, ponds stocked with fish, a fully functional cabin, herds of deer, flocks of turkey and Canada Geese, & well-maintained roads and trails here in Addison NY. It's so private that even most of the people who live in our small town don't know we're here! CHECK OUR REVIEWS!OPTION to camp/hike in the woods for a more wild experience. NEARBY: restaurants including Chinese, Subway, pizza/wings, & several excellent diners offering take out or eat-in. ALSO: Dollar General, Wal-Mart (15 min away), Dunkin Donuts (5 min away), & gas stations.Your jaw will *drop* when you see Towner's Country Paradise for the first time!

The best camping near Taughannock Falls State Park guide

Overview

About

Although named for its main attraction—the 215-foot-high Taughannock Falls—this Finger Lakes state park offers plenty more to do than just viewing its star attraction. The summer months draw hikers, water-sports enthusiasts, and swimmers galore, and the park’s Cayuga Lake offers seasonal slips, a boat launch, and a swimming beach. Winter brings lots of snow, offering winter sports for those keen on cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice-skating. Accommodations include 16 cabins and a campground with tent and RV sites, available from spring through early autumn.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can book a campsite either online or by calling New York State Parks. Walk-ins are not available, so it’s crucial to book ahead to avoid disappointment.
Campsites can be reserved from nine months in advance of your stay to 3pm on the day of your visit.
If the site you want isn’t available for your preferred dates, you can set up a notification through the website to be alerted of the next available opening.
If you can’t find a site at Taughannock Falls State Park, consider looking into nearby Hipcamps or private campgrounds instead.

When to go

Taughannock Falls State Park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, but camping is only available from the middle of April until mid-October. Summer is the best time of year to visit, and swimming is allowed from the beginning of July through Labor Day weekend. However, this is also the busiest time due to school summer vacations, so if you want to come in summer, opt for a weekday visit if possible.

Know before you go

The closest place to pick up groceries and supplies is the town of Trumansburg, about a five-minute drive from the park.
Two leashed pets per party are allowed in campsites and day-use areas.
Boat rentals and slips are available for rent during the camping season.
Cabins require a two-night minimum during certain times of the season.
A per-vehicle charge applies for entry but is waived for those with an annual Empire Pass.