Autumn is just around the corner which means its the last chance for RV camping in Upstate New York before the cold winter sets in and nature lovers everywhere are gearing up for a spectacular fall foliage show.
The trees are beginning to transition, the weather is getting cooler, and the days are getting shorter, little by little. In a few months, we may have snow on the ground, but rest assured, now is the best time of year for an epic RV camp trip.
You can make the most of these upcoming months in a variety of places, but there is almost no better place for watching the leaves change than in upstate New York.
The following campgrounds provide the best sights that the region has to offer, from stunning waterfall, awe-inspiring mountains, star-studded skies, and of course, thousands of colorful autumnal forests.
So pick up the ingredients for some s’mores and pack up your RV, this top notch list is a guide to the best RV campgrounds in Upstate New York.
RV Camping in Upstate New York
Watkins Glen State Park
Nestled into an enchanting stretch of woodlands, Watkins Glen State Park is a truly visual extravaganza, no matter what time of year you go. In the park, you can find stunning cliffs, thick forests, and nineteen waterfalls!
Sites cost between $18 and $30 each night depending on which site you book. There are electric hookups available and pull-thru sites for RVs up to 40 feet. Pets are also allowed at this campground.
Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA
Some RV campers love KOA campground, while others prefer to look elsewhere. However, anytime you stay at a KOA, you can be sure that quality and cleanliness will be a top priority.
The Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA is just 7 miles away from the iconic landmark of Niagara Falls, making it a perfect basecamp for a day trip. The river also has several bike paths, paddle boats for rent, live entertainment, fishing spots, and a pool. There are electric hookups available and free Wi-Fi! They can also accommodate rigs up to 80 feet in length.
Photo by Akbarsait N on Unsplash
Letchworth State Park
Located in Castile, New York, the Letchworth State Park campground has plenty of spectacular sightseeing opportunities. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park is one of the most magnificent parks in the eastern United States. The Genesee River roars through a gorge with cliffs as high as 600 feet and three waterfalls.
The campground at this state park accommodates RV rigs up to 50 feet in length. You’ll also find 50 amp hookups available. Another fantastic thing about this state park campground is that the sites are spacious and fairly shady. Nightly rates usually range between $25 and $39.
Photo by Anand on Unsplash
Glimmerglass State Park
Glimmerglass State Park overlooks Otsego Lake, just outside of Cooperstown. There are a number of hiking trails from the campground that will allow you to find spectacular views of the lake. This can be especially alluring in the fall when all of the trees around the lake are beginning to change color.
This state park will accommodate RV rigs up to 40 feet in length, but be prepared for back-in sites only. There are electric hookups available and pets are allowed in the campground. If you’re looking for fun-filled activities, Glimmerglass has dozens of activities for the whole family, from biking, hiking, fishing, and swimming.
Cumberland Bay State Park
Cumberland Bay State Park near Plattsburgh, New York, has miles of shoreline to explore for recreational boating. Whether you plan on bringing a motorboat, a canoe, or even just an inner tube, this campground is an absolute blast! You’ll be able to camp directly on the bay for some amazingly scenic views. There is also a pristine sandy beach running along the shore.
There are 152 total sites available and the campground will accommodate RV rigs up to 50 feet in length. The majority of sites available don’t have hookups, but if you reserve in advance, you should be able to score a site on one of the loops with electricity and water. Sites are fairly spacious and sunny, and the campground stays fairly quiet after hours.
Fish Creek Pond Campground
Fish Creek Pond is known for its calm water and views that almost can’t be beat. The sites are relatively shady and you’ll have the chance to see plenty of wildlife from your campsite near the water. Most campers usually take kayaks and canoes onto the water for fishing or recreational boating.
Fish Creek Pond Campground is also one of the highest rated RV campgrounds in the state! There are a few back-in sites that will accommodate rigs up to 40 feet, but most of them are designed for RVs around 20 to 30 feet in length. This campground is fairly primitive and there aren’t any hookups available. However, the ability to stay disconnected makes for an even more incredible camp trip during the fall season.
So many campgrounds to choose from…
Camping in Upstate New York during the fall is certain to be a rewarding experience. You will not only be able to take in the remarkable mid-western landscapes, but you’ll also have access to some of the best displays of fall-time colors around.
For these reasons alone, thousands of RV campers flock to Upstate New York during this wondrous time of year.
If you’re looking to book some time for a similar kind of trip, there is an abundance of campgrounds to choose from.
Whether you’re looking for luxury or primitive camping, private resorts or state parks, an RV trip to this part of the country is going to be absolutely exceptional
Looking to head a little further east into New England to savor the changing fall foliage? Check out our top New England RV campgrounds.
