Watkins Glen State Park
00 reviewP.O. BOX 304, WATKINS GLEN, New York, 14891, United States
Watkins Glen State Park
$6.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Parking costs $10 per day per car. Shuttle service between entrances costs $6 per person.
About this campground
Deep in the heart of New York's Finger Lakes region, Watkins Glen State Park beckons adventurers with its legendary gorge trail and 19 cascading waterfalls. This natural wonderland hosts 305 well-appointed campsites, each offering easy access to modern amenities including hot showers, restrooms, and convenient dumping stations. Beyond the falls, families gather at the Olympic-sized pool, children explore state-of-the-art playgrounds, and evenings come alive with crackling campfires fueled by on-site firewood. Whether you're seeking thundering waterfalls or peaceful nights under the stars, this crown jewel of the Finger Lakes delivers an unforgettable camping experience.
The park offers a mix of camping options, including tent and trailer campsites and rustic cabins. "Huge campground, in the woods, with lots of sites in 5 rings," a reviewer noted. The park does not have walk-in sites.
Historical SignificanceWhile the park's natural wonders take center stage, the surrounding Finger Lakes region pulses with centuries of stories waiting to be discovered by curious campers.
Weather and SeasonsThe gorge creates its own microclimate, where summer days remain refreshingly cool beneath the protective canopy of ancient trees and towering rock walls. Morning mist often dances above the waterfalls, while afternoon showers can transform the stone pathways into glistening ribbons—sturdy footwear is essential. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forests explode in brilliant colors, though temperatures begin their descent. Winter transforms the park into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures plunging below freezing and waterfalls occasionally freezing into spectacular ice sculptures. Spring brings renewal and rushing waters, though trails may remain slick with snowmelt.
ElevationThe dramatic topography creates an ever-changing landscape as you explore the park's varied elevations and stunning vantage points.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to have your breath stolen by nature's masterpiece: a serpentine gorge where crystal-clear waters plunge 400 feet over just two miles, sculpting 19 magnificent waterfalls along the way. The crown jewel, Cavern Cascade, invites brave souls to walk behind its thundering curtain of water. Ancient rock walls rise on either side, their layers telling a geological story millions of years in the making. Stone bridges arc gracefully over churning pools, while the famous Gorge Trail winds past moss-covered cliffs and through tunnels carved by time itself. Every turn reveals another postcard-worthy vista, from delicate ribbon falls to powerful cascades that shake the very ground beneath your feet.
Geological RegionNestled in New York's spectacular Finger Lakes region, Watkins Glen showcases nature's artistic prowess through its dramatic gorges, sheer cliffs, and ancient rock formations. This geological wonderland was carved by glaciers and sculpted by centuries of flowing water, creating a landscape where every stone tells a story of ice ages past. The park stands as a testament to the raw power of nature, offering visitors a front-row seat to one of the Northeast's most stunning geological theaters.
Campsite details
AccessibilityShort trails, such as one connecting campsites to the Gorge Trail, are available for those with mobility issues. However, one reviewer mentioned difficulties navigating the trails due to incomplete directions provided by staff.
Sites SizeSites are described as level and shady. One user noted that the site for their 33-foot motorhome in the Seneca loop was 'more than ample with lots of distance to neighbors.'
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as having a spacious and wooded setup, though quiet hours enforcement and generator noise in certain areas were noted as concerns.
Total Campsites305 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe Mohawk and Cayuga loops are the only ones with electric sites.
Best CampsitesSpecific site recommendations are not provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
14 continuous nights. Campers must leave for 48 hours before re-registering.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific number of guests per site is mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is large and wooded, with sites organized into five loops. Mohawk and Cayuga loops offer electric sites.
Open and Closed SeasonThe park follows seasonal schedules. The pool, for example, operates from the end of June to Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Reserve America.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground accommodates one-night reservations if booked within seven days of the arrival date online or through the Call Center. First-come-first-served details are not mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyOPRHP General Camping Rules, Information, and Cancellation Policy apply. Reservations with departure dates outside the 9-month maximum window cannot be altered until 18 days after the reservation was made.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Watkins Glen State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and picnicking. The park's Gorge Trail with 19 waterfalls is a major highlight. Visitors also enjoy the Olympic-sized swimming pool and access to nearby fishing spots like Seneca Lake.
Hiking
"One of the best state parks I've visited so far," one reviewer wrote, praising the multiple trails with beautiful waterfalls and rock formations. The Gorge Trail is the primary attraction, featuring 19 waterfalls, 800 steps, and scenic views. Visitors are advised to wear proper footwear due to wet and slippery conditions.Fishing
Fishing is available in Seneca Lake and Catherine Creek, which is 'renowned for its annual spring run of rainbow trout.'Swimming
Swimming is available in the Olympic-sized pool (open from late June to Labor Day) and a kiddie pool. Swimmers must wear proper swim attire, and the pool is subject to water quality and lifeguard availability.Wildlife viewing
The natural scenery and the Gorge Trail provide opportunities for observing wildlife and appreciating the park's unique ecological features.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers interpretive programs and scheduled summer tours through the gorge.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Each campsite has a fire ring with a cooking grill. Specific fire restrictions are not mentioned.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 8 AM, strictly enforced.
Hazards
General hazardsTrails can be wet and slippery. Steep drop-offs and narrow trails may pose challenges for those afraid of heights. Users have noted the presence of ticks leading to Lyme disease.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station contact is 607-535-4511. Specific details of nearby hospitals or emergency services are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified, though summer appears to be the busiest period.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but details on pickup schedules or specific locations are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Seneca Lake and Catherine Creek, which are popular fishing spots.
Common complaintsOvercrowding, noisy generators, slippery trails, and the lack of control over shower water temperature are common complaints.
HostNo information on campground hosts is provided.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 304, WATKINS GLEN, New York, 14891, United States
Driving directionsFor the pool, camping, and picnic areas, please use the South Entrance: 3530 State Route 419, Watkins Glen NY 14891 607-535-4511
The park is accessible from the South Entrance at State Route 419. No specific issues with road access, seasonality, or terrain challenges are mentioned.Nearby places
Watkins Glen (approx. 0 miles)
Nearby supplies
Within 10 miles, visitors can access convenience stores and other amenities. Specific grocery or camping supply locations are not detailed.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Watkins Glen State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The park is widely praised for its stunning Gorge Trail, waterfalls, and well-maintained facilities. "The most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks," one user wrote. However, some criticisms include overcrowding and generator noise in non-electric sites.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Visitors highlighted the beauty of the trails, waterfalls, and the level sites with clean restrooms. Access to nearby attractions was also appreciated.
Common Concerns
Common complaints include overcrowding, poor enforcement of quiet hours, excessive generator noise, and slippery conditions on the trails.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend wearing proper footwear for the trails, arriving early to avoid crowds, and bringing water as there are limited refill points along the trails. Proper swim attire is advised for...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most crowded season, with visitors taking advantage of swimming pools and scheduled tours. Fall attracts fewer crowds but retains the park's scenic beauty.
Camper Quotes
"The walk-behind waterfalls ... felt like I was walking through a Hobbit movie," one user remarked. Another stated, "I saw we had to go down 280 steps to the parking lot. Ugh! Was it worth it? YES!!!"
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific loops like Seneca and Cayuga are noted for electric sites, while Mohawk and other loops are praised for their spacious layout.
Accessibility Features
Mixed reviews. While some short trails are available for those with mobility issues, others found the staff's directions unhelpful.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but restrictions apply. "Pets are NOT allowed on Gorge Trail," noted one reviewer. Only two pets per site are permitted.
Last updated August 10, 2025