Best Budget-Friendly RV Campgrounds in Upstate New York
Exploring the natural beauty of Upstate New York in your RV doesn't have to break the bank. From the rolling hills of the Catskills to the serene shores of the Finger Lakes, budget-conscious travelers can find exceptional camping experiences without the premium price tag. We've researched and compiled this comprehensive guide to the most affordable RV campgrounds across Upstate New York, all offering nightly rates under $50.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended road trip, these wallet-friendly destinations provide the perfect base for adventure while keeping your travel budget intact. Each location offers a unique blend of natural surroundings, convenient amenities, and proximity to popular attractions that make them ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Upstate New York RV Camping Regions
Before diving into specific campgrounds, it helps to understand the diverse regions of Upstate New York. Each area offers distinct landscapes, attractions, and camping experiences.
Adirondacks
Vast wilderness with mountains, lakes, and forests. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking seclusion and adventure.
Finger Lakes
Wine country with scenic lakes, waterfalls, and charming small towns. Ideal for those who enjoy water activities and wine tasting.
Catskills
Rolling mountains with hiking trails, fishing streams, and artistic communities. Great for families and nature lovers.
What Makes a Great Budget-Friendly RV Campground?
When searching for affordable RV camping options, it's important to consider what amenities and features provide the best value for your money. The best budget-friendly campgrounds balance cost with comfort and convenience.
Essential Amenities to Look For:
- Clean restrooms and shower facilities
- Water hookups (even if just a filling station)
- Reasonable site spacing for privacy
- Fire rings and picnic tables
- Access to dump stations
- Proximity to attractions or natural features
Nice-to-Have Extras:
- Electrical hookups (30/50 amp)
- Free or affordable Wi-Fi
- Laundry facilities
- Camp store for essentials
- Recreational facilities (playgrounds, fishing spots)
- Seasonal activities or events
Ready to Find Your Perfect Campsite?
Use ReserveAmerica to check availability and book your stay at state parks and public campgrounds across Upstate New York.
Search Available CampsitesBudget-Friendly RV Campgrounds in the Adirondacks
The Adirondack region offers some of the most pristine wilderness in the eastern United States. These affordable campgrounds provide excellent access to mountains, lakes, and forests without straining your wallet.
1. Scaroon Manor Campground
$25/night 73 sites
Once an upscale resort for New York City's elite, Scaroon Manor now offers affordable camping on the picturesque shores of Schroon Lake. The campground features spacious sites with easy access to swimming, fishing, and boating.
Amenities:
- Accessible restrooms and showers
- Sandy beach with swimming area
- Boat launch and fishing pier
- Picnic areas with grills
- Hiking trails with historic features
Nearby Attractions:
- Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park (30 min)
- Gore Mountain for hiking and mountain biking (30 min)
- Schroon Lake town with shops and restaurants (10 min)
- Paradox Lake for additional fishing (15 min)
Booking Tips:
Reserve well in advance for summer weekends, especially for waterfront sites. Shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall) offer better availability and the same beautiful scenery with fewer crowds.
2. Cranberry Lake Campground
$20/night 167 sites
Located in one of the most remote areas of the Adirondacks, Cranberry Lake Campground offers a true wilderness experience at an unbeatable price. The campground is surrounded by thousands of acres of undisturbed forest and provides access to excellent fishing, hiking, and paddling opportunities.
Amenities:
- Clean restrooms and hot showers
- Sandy beach with designated swimming area
- Boat launch for non-motorized and small motorized boats
- Picnic tables and fire rings at each site
- Hiking trails connecting to the larger trail network
Nearby Attractions:
- The Wild Center in Tupper Lake (40 min)
- Adirondack Sky Center & Observatory (40 min)
- Cranberry Lake 50 hiking trail
- Bear Mountain and Cat Mountain trails
Booking Tips:
Sites are more private than at many other campgrounds, with trees providing natural separation. For the most secluded experience, book sites in the 100-150 range, which offer better spacing and privacy.
3. Wilmington Notch Campground
$22/night 54 sites
Nestled along the scenic West Branch of the Ausable River, Wilmington Notch Campground offers budget-friendly camping with spectacular views of Whiteface Mountain. This no-frills campground is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to be close to hiking, fishing, and mountain biking opportunities.
Amenities:
- Basic restrooms and shower facilities
- Direct access to the Ausable River for fishing
- Picnic tables and fire rings
- Relatively flat, accessible sites
- Dump station available
Nearby Attractions:
- Whiteface Mountain (10 min)
- High Falls Gorge (5 min)
- Lake Placid Olympic sites (20 min)
- Ausable Chasm (30 min)
- Flume Trail System for mountain biking (5 min)
Booking Tips:
Sites 16-27 are closest to the river and tend to book quickly. For a more peaceful stay, avoid holiday weekends when the nearby attractions draw larger crowds.
Budget-Friendly RV Campgrounds in the Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes region is known for its stunning lakes, award-winning wineries, and charming small towns. These affordable campgrounds put you in the heart of wine country without the premium price tag.
| Campground | Price/Night | Number of Sites | Hookups | Best For |
| Keuka Lake State Park | $20-33 | 147 | Electric at some sites | Wine tours, lake activities |
| Watkins Glen State Park | $18-28 | 279 | Electric at some sites | Gorge hiking, racing events |
| Sampson State Park | $19-31 | 309 | Electric at most sites | Beach access, boating |
4. Keuka Lake State Park
$20-33/night 147 sites
Located on the eastern shore of Y-shaped Keuka Lake, this state park campground offers stunning views of vineyard-covered slopes and crystal-clear waters. It's an ideal base for exploring the Finger Lakes wine region while enjoying affordable camping.
Amenities:
- Clean restrooms and hot showers
- Swimming beach with lifeguards (seasonal)
- Boat launch and fishing access
- Hiking trails with lake views
- Playground and picnic areas
- Electric hookups at some sites
Nearby Attractions:
- Keuka Lake Wine Trail (6 family-owned wineries)
- Finger Lakes Boating Museum (15 min)
- Glenn H. Curtiss Museum (15 min)
- Hammondsport village shops and restaurants (10 min)
- Penn Yan downtown and farmers market (15 min)
Booking Tips:
Loop A sites (1-42) offer the best lake views. Book midweek stays for better availability and a more peaceful experience, especially during peak wine touring season (May-October).
5. Watkins Glen State Park
$18-28/night 279 sites
Camp just minutes away from the spectacular Watkins Glen Gorge, featuring 19 waterfalls along a 2-mile hiking trail. This affordable campground provides easy access to both natural wonders and the amenities of Watkins Glen village.
Amenities:
- Modern restrooms and shower houses
- Olympic-sized swimming pool (seasonal)
- Playground and recreation fields
- Dump station
- Electric sites available
- Hiking trails connecting to the gorge
Nearby Attractions:
- Watkins Glen Gorge Trail (walking distance)
- Seneca Lake waterfront (5 min)
- Watkins Glen International racetrack (10 min)
- Seneca Lake Wine Trail (numerous wineries within 20 min)
- Corning Museum of Glass (30 min)
Booking Tips:
Book well in advance for race weekends at Watkins Glen International. The Seneca Loop offers the most spacious sites for RVs, while the Glen Loop is closer to the gorge trail entrance.
Planning a Wine Country Adventure?
Explore the Finger Lakes Wine Trails while staying at these affordable campgrounds. Many wineries offer free tastings with purchase!
Discover Finger Lakes WineriesBudget-Friendly RV Campgrounds in the Catskills
The Catskill Mountains offer a perfect blend of wilderness and culture, with artistic communities, fishing streams, and hiking trails. These affordable campgrounds provide excellent value in one of New York's most beloved regions.
6. Kenneth L. Wilson Campground
$22/night 74 sites
Nestled in a forested area of Mount Tremper, Kenneth L. Wilson Campground offers a secluded nature escape with rustic wooded campsites. Historic stone fences throughout the property hint at the area's farming past, adding character to this affordable Catskills retreat.
Amenities:
- Clean restrooms and hot showers
- Small lake for fishing and paddling
- Canoe and kayak rentals
- Hiking and mountain biking trails
- Picnic areas with grills
- Playground for children
Nearby Attractions:
- Woodstock town center (15 min)
- Phoenicia village and Phoenicia Diner (10 min)
- Esopus Creek for fishing and tubing (5 min)
- Kingston historic district (30 min)
- Catskill Park hiking trails (multiple access points)
Booking Tips:
Sites 1-20 offer the most privacy and shade. For a quieter experience, avoid weekends when the campground tends to be busier with visitors from New York City.
7. North-South Lake Campground
$22-26/night 219 sites
As the largest and most popular campground in the Catskills, North-South Lake offers an exceptional value with access to two beautiful lakes and some of the region's most iconic hiking trails. The campground sits at the site of the former Catskill Mountain House, a historic hotel that once attracted wealthy vacationers.
Amenities:
- Modern restrooms and hot showers
- Two lakes with beaches and swimming areas (seasonal)
- Boat rentals (rowboats, canoes, kayaks)
- Extensive hiking trail network
- Picnic areas with fireplaces
- Playground and volleyball courts
Nearby Attractions:
- Kaaterskill Falls (5 min)
- Sunset Rock and Artist's Rock viewpoints
- Hunter Mountain for hiking and scenic skyride (15 min)
- Tannersville village shops and restaurants (10 min)
- Thomas Cole National Historic Site (20 min)
Booking Tips:
The North Lake Loop offers better lake access, while the South Lake Loop tends to be quieter. Book at least 9 months in advance for summer weekends, as this campground fills quickly due to its popularity and proximity to New York City.
8. Covered Bridge Campsite
$40-55/night Multiple sites
Named after a nearby 19th-century covered bridge, this family-friendly campground is surrounded by 500 acres of the Catskill Forest Preserve. It offers affordable RV sites with hookups and is especially popular among anglers due to its location on the famous Willowemoc Creek, a premier fly fishing destination.
Amenities:
- 20/30-amp hookups with water access
- Clean restrooms and hot showers
- Direct access to Willowemoc Creek for fishing
- Fire rings and picnic tables at each site
- Camp store with basic supplies
- Hiking trails to nearby waterfalls
Nearby Attractions:
- Livingston Manor town center (5 min)
- Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum (10 min)
- Roscoe "Trout Town USA" (15 min)
- Mongaup Pond for swimming and boating (20 min)
- Catskill Brewery (5 min)
Booking Tips:
Request creekside sites for the best fishing access and scenic views. Weekdays offer better availability and more peaceful fishing conditions on the creek.
Budget-Friendly RV Campgrounds in Central New York
Central New York offers a diverse landscape of lakes, farmland, and historic sites. These affordable campgrounds provide excellent value while putting you close to popular attractions and natural beauty.
9. Verona Beach State Park
$20-33/night 46 sites
Located on the eastern shore of Oneida Lake, Verona Beach State Park offers affordable camping with 11 sites featuring direct lake views. The park's diverse ecosystem includes the lake, Black Creek, cattail marshes, and hardwood swamps, making it a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Amenities:
- Clean restrooms and hot showers
- Sandy beach with swimming area (seasonal)
- Picnic areas with grills
- "Woods and Wetland" nature trail
- Boat launch and fishing access
- Playground for children
Nearby Attractions:
- Turning Stone Resort Casino (15 min)
- Sylvan Beach Amusement Park (10 min)
- Erie Canal Village (25 min)
- Chittenango Falls State Park (30 min)
- Green Lakes State Park (40 min)
Booking Tips:
Sites 24-34 offer the best lake views. The campground is relatively small, so book well in advance for summer weekends when the beach is most popular.
10. Green Lakes State Park
$20-39/night 136 sites
Home to two stunning glacial lakes with a unique blue-green color, Green Lakes State Park offers affordable camping on grassy and wooded sites. The lakes' rare meromictic quality (layers that don't mix) creates their distinctive turquoise hue and makes them a scientific wonder as well as a beautiful backdrop for camping.
Amenities:
- Modern restrooms and hot showers
- Sandy beach with swimming area (seasonal)
- Boat rentals (kayaks, rowboats, paddleboards)
- 18-hole golf course
- Extensive hiking and biking trail network
- Picnic areas and playgrounds
Nearby Attractions:
- Syracuse city center (15 min)
- Destiny USA mall (20 min)
- Erie Canal Museum (20 min)
- Museum of Science and Technology (20 min)
- Dinosaur Bar-B-Que (20 min)
Booking Tips:
The Rolling Hills loop offers more spacious sites for RVs, while Pine Woods loop provides more shade. Book midweek for a quieter experience, as weekends can be busy with day visitors to the beach and golf course.
Budget-Friendly RV Campgrounds in Western New York
Western New York offers diverse landscapes from the majestic Niagara Falls to the serene shores of Lake Erie. These affordable campgrounds provide excellent value while putting you close to some of the state's most iconic attractions.
11. Four Mile Creek State Park
$20-37/night 260 sites
Located just 15 minutes from Niagara Falls, Four Mile Creek State Park offers affordable camping with 10 premium sites featuring panoramic views of Lake Ontario. The park's location makes it an ideal base for exploring the falls while enjoying a more peaceful setting away from the tourist crowds.
Amenities:
- Clean restrooms and hot showers
- Hiking trails along wooded bluffs
- Fishing access to Lake Ontario and Four Mile Creek
- Playground and recreation areas
- Picnic areas with grills
- Yurts available for glamping
Nearby Attractions:
- Niagara Falls State Park (15 min)
- Maid of the Mist boat tours (15 min)
- Old Fort Niagara (10 min)
- Lewiston village shops and restaurants (5 min)
- Niagara Wine Trail (multiple wineries within 20 min)
Booking Tips:
Sites 1-10 offer the best Lake Ontario views but book quickly. The free Discover Niagara Shuttle (seasonal) stops at the campground, providing transportation to Niagara Falls and other attractions without having to move your RV.
12. Allegany State Park
$20-33/night 300+ sites
As New York's largest state park with over 65,000 acres of wilderness, Allegany offers exceptional value for RV campers seeking natural beauty and outdoor recreation. The park features two developed camping areas (Red House and Quaker) with hundreds of affordable sites nestled among forested valleys.
Amenities:
- Modern restrooms and hot showers
- Two sandy beaches with swimming areas (seasonal)
- Miles of paved biking paths
- Extensive hiking trail network
- Fishing in lakes and streams
- Two museums about local natural history
- Boat rentals (canoes, kayaks, paddleboats)
Nearby Attractions:
- National Comedy Center in Jamestown (40 min)
- Rock City Park with massive rock formations (40 min)
- Seneca-Allegany Casino (20 min)
- Griffis Sculpture Park (30 min)
- Ellicottville village for shopping and dining (30 min)
Booking Tips:
The Red House area tends to be more developed and family-oriented, while Quaker area offers a more rustic experience. Loop 3 in the Red House area provides the most spacious sites for larger RVs.
Pro Tips for Budget-Friendly RV Camping in Upstate New York
Seasonal Discounts
- Camp midweek (Sunday-Thursday) for lower rates and fewer crowds
- Visit during shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) for reduced pricing
- Look for off-season specials at private campgrounds (up to 50% off)
- Purchase an Empire Pass ($80) for free entry to all state parks for a year
- Many state parks offer senior discounts (10-20% off) for campers 62+
Free Camping Options
- Explore dispersed camping in Finger Lakes National Forest (free, no hookups)
- Try boondocking on DEC land in the Adirondacks (check regulations first)
- Use HipCamp to find private landowners offering free or low-cost camping
- Join Harvest Hosts ($99/year) for free overnight stays at wineries and farms
- Some Walmarts in Upstate NY allow overnight parking (call ahead to confirm)
Packing Essentials
- Bring a water pressure regulator to protect your RV's plumbing
- Pack a good quality surge protector for electrical hookups
- Include leveling blocks for uneven campsites
- Bring a portable water filter for filling tanks from various sources
- Don't forget insect repellent (especially for Adirondacks and Catskills)
- Pack layers for unpredictable Upstate weather, even in summer
"The best way to save money while RV camping in Upstate New York is to book directly through ReserveAmerica for state parks. Avoid third-party booking sites that charge extra fees, and always check for available discounts before finalizing your reservation."
Money-Saving Booking Strategy
For the best deals on budget-friendly RV campgrounds in Upstate New York, book your stays 9 months in advance (the earliest possible date for NY state parks). Sites under $30/night get booked quickly, especially for summer weekends and holidays. Set a calendar reminder for exactly 9 months before your planned trip date!
Price Comparison: Budget-Friendly vs. Premium RV Campgrounds
To help you understand the value offered by these budget-friendly options, here's how they compare to premium RV resorts in the same regions:
| Region | Budget Campground | Budget Price/Night | Premium Campground | Premium Price/Night | Savings |
| Adirondacks | Scaroon Manor | $25 | Lake George RV Park | $89-129 | $64-104 |
| Finger Lakes | Keuka Lake State Park | $20-33 | Conesus Lake Campground | $65-85 | $32-65 |
| Catskills | Kenneth L. Wilson | $22 | Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds | $58-78 | $36-56 |
| Western NY | Four Mile Creek | $20-37 | Branches of Niagara | $69-99 | $32-79 |
As you can see, choosing budget-friendly campgrounds can save you $30-100 per night while still providing access to the same beautiful regions and attractions. Over a week-long vacation, these savings can add up to $200-700 – enough for several nice meals, attraction tickets, or even extending your trip by a few days!
Frequently Asked Questions About Budget RV Camping in Upstate NY
When is the best time to book budget-friendly RV campgrounds in Upstate New York?
For New York State Parks, reservations open exactly 9 months before your arrival date. Budget-friendly sites, especially those with hookups or water views, tend to book quickly for summer weekends and holidays. For the best selection and rates, set a calendar reminder and book the moment reservations open. Private campgrounds may have different booking windows, but generally, 3-6 months in advance is recommended for the best rates.
Do these budget campgrounds offer full hookups for RVs?
Most New York State Park campgrounds offer electric hookups (30 amp) at select sites but typically don't provide full hookups with water and sewer. They do have water filling stations and dump stations available for use. Private campgrounds like Covered Bridge Campsite often offer water and electric hookups at budget-friendly rates, with dump stations available. If full hookups are essential for your trip, focus on private campgrounds or be prepared to use your RV's tanks and the campground's dump station.
Are these budget campgrounds suitable for large RVs?
Site sizes vary significantly across campgrounds. State parks like Allegany and Four Mile Creek can accommodate larger RVs (up to 40 feet) on certain loops, while others like Kenneth L. Wilson have more limited space for big rigs. When booking, pay close attention to the maximum RV length specified for each site. Many campground reservation systems allow you to filter sites by the length of your RV. If you have a larger RV (over 35 feet), it's also wise to call the campground directly to discuss access roads and site conditions.
Is Wi-Fi available at these budget-friendly campgrounds?
Wi-Fi availability is limited at most budget-friendly campgrounds in Upstate New York, especially at state parks. Some private campgrounds offer Wi-Fi in common areas or at an additional fee. Cell service varies by region, with the Adirondacks and remote areas of the Catskills having more limited coverage. If staying connected is important, consider bringing your own hotspot or checking cell coverage maps before booking. Libraries and cafes in nearby towns can also provide internet access when needed.
What additional fees should I expect beyond the nightly rate?
When camping at New York State Parks, non-residents pay a $5 daily vehicle entrance fee in addition to camping fees. Residents with New York license plates are exempt from this fee. Both state parks and private campgrounds may charge additional fees for:
- Reservation processing ($7.25-9.00 for state parks)
- Pets ($5-15 at some campgrounds)
- Extra vehicles ($5-10)
- Visitors/guests ($3-7 per person)
- Firewood ($5-10 per bundle)
Start Planning Your Budget-Friendly RV Adventure in Upstate New York
Upstate New York offers a wealth of affordable camping options that provide access to stunning natural landscapes, outdoor recreation, and charming small towns. By choosing these budget-friendly RV campgrounds, you can enjoy an unforgettable vacation experience without breaking the bank.
From the majestic mountains of the Adirondacks to the crystal-clear lakes of the Finger Lakes region, the rolling hills of the Catskills to the thundering waters of Niagara Falls, these affordable campgrounds put you right in the heart of New York's most beautiful destinations.
Remember to book early, take advantage of seasonal discounts, and consider visiting during shoulder seasons for the best rates and a more peaceful experience. With proper planning, your budget-friendly RV camping trip to Upstate New York will create lasting memories without emptying your wallet.
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