The best camping near Sampson State Park

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

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Swimming and paddling are popular at this Finger Lakes park famed for its sunsets,

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Sampson State Park

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

Top-rated campgrounds near Sampson State Park

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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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(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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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

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Mission Hemlock Grove

4 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Conesus, NY

Welcome, Mission Conesus, originally built by Franciscan Catholics. These lands were likely chosen for many reasons. Suffice it to say there is something special here. Come discover for yourself. Lose yourself here, or maybe find yourself, among the Hemlocks. First, a bit about the terrain. There is much in the way of forest, very mature, and a broad array of plant species. Elevation differences are vast, land to the west is uphill for quite a ways, and downhill to the east, to Hemlock lake below, so the world here can feel a bit tilted. We adjoin 150 acres of nature conservancy lands that nobody seems to know about. These lands are for respectful public daytime use. We also adjoin 6600 acres of NY state forest which is public property. Exploring all that is here would take a very long time! Want to get away? Welcome to our little slice of heaven. We are just getting started in the camping space, but for now, we're accepting bookings and looking forward to hosting you, at the mission. See the provided map for site locations. Site 1 is open field and is near the pavilion, sites 2 and 3 are along the woods, and site 4 is the most private and tucked into the woods. We looking forward to hosting you, at the mission.

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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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Camp Earth Connection

21 sites · Lodging, Tents62 acres · Freeville, NY

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, AdirondackLean-To's and Tent-Sites. Each site has privacy, picnic tables and grills or fire pits. 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 our community campfires, campfire pancake breakfasts or workshops. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Camp Earth Connection offers a variety of activities and workshops such as: -Saturday Morning Campfire Pancake Breakfast between Memorial Day and Labor Day -Saturday Evening Community Campfire (when scheduled with guests) 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 & 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 LGBTQ community, People of Color and other culturally diverse individuals, families and groups.

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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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Cabin in the woods

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Moravia, NY

The cabin is located in a remote area of Bear Swamp State Forest. It is about 5 miles from the nearest paved road but has seasonal roads that take you to the cabin. There are many close attractions like Skaneateles Lake and Carpenters Falls. The Cabin doesn’t have electricity or water but we do have a generator available. We do not have a shower or bathroom but we have an outhouse. We do ask people to bring their own gas if you want to run the generator and woods to make a fire. I highly recommend 4x4 vehicles but I been there in a civic and a mini van.

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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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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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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

The best camping near Sampson State Park guide

Overview

About

Covering just over 2,000 acres on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake, Sampson State Park is a prime location for boating, swimming, hiking and volleyball. The marina has 96 boat slips and a large multiple launch site, while the sandy beach has guarded swimming, playgrounds, and a scenic lake trail. Other popular activities include fishing, biking, and wildlife watching. At the end of a full day of activity, you can enjoy one of the Finger Lakes’ most picturesque sunsets. Those who wish to spend the night can choose from 243 electric campsites at the Sampson State Park Campground.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Bookings can easily be secured online or by phone.
As this is a popular campground, reservations are recommended: bookings may be made up to nine months in advance.
Same-day reservations are allowed until 3pm on the day of arrival.

When to go

Sampson State Park is open year-round but the campground only opens from mid-April to early October. As water activities are the main draw, spring and summer are the busiest times in the park, especially on weekends. In winter, roads in and around the park may become icy and difficult to maneuver.

Know before you go

If you need to stock up, you’ll find the essentials at grocery stores just outside the park. For bigger purchases, head for Geneva, 10 miles away.
A maximum of two pets are allowed in campsites and day use areas, but not in the swimming area, and must be on a leash and have proof of rabies inoculation.
Swimming season typically runs from mid-June to early September.
Boat rentals are available from Seneca Lake Resorts.