Watkins Glen State Park, nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes region of New York, is a true gem for RV enthusiasts. This 778-acre park boasts 19 stunning waterfalls, 200-foot cliffs, and a vast network of hiking trails that offer breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in nature.
Campground Options for RVers
For RVers visiting Watkins Glen State Park, there are several nearby campground options to consider:
- Tuscarora Campground: This campground can accommodate up to 12 RVs ranging from 20 to 40 feet in length.
- Watkins Glen / Corning KOA Resort: This resort offers a variety of RV hookup sites, as well as tent camping and rental cabins. The resort is a popular choice for RVers, with all 50/30/20 RV sites suitable for all rigs, making it an ideal base for exploring the nearby Watkins Glen International Race Track.
Costs and Fees
Accessing Watkins Glen State Park comes with a few fees to consider:
- Vehicle Use Fee: New York State Parks charge a vehicle use fee to enter the facility, which varies by location and season. It’s recommended to contact the park directly for the most up-to-date information.
- Empire Pass: The Empire Pass card, priced at $80, offers unlimited day-use entry at most facilities operated by State Parks and the State Dept. of Environmental Conservation, including forests, beaches, trails, and more.
- Pavilion Rentals: Watkins Glen State Park has two pavilions available for rent, with prices ranging from $75 to $150 and accommodating up to 122 people. Availability can be checked on ReserveAmerica.com.
Pet Policy
Watkins Glen State Park has a pet-friendly policy, with a few guidelines to keep in mind:
- Maximum Pets: A maximum of two pets are allowed in campsites and day-use areas.
- Supervision: Pets must be supervised at all times, either crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length.
- Gorge Trail: Pets are not allowed on the Gorge Trail, which is one of the park’s main attractions.
Educational Programs
For RVers interested in learning more about the natural wonders of the Finger Lakes region, the Finger Lakes Environmental Education Department offers scheduled gorge tours and educational programs at Watkins Glen State Park, as well as other nearby parks such as Buttermilk Falls, Robert H. Treman, and Taughannock Falls.
Amenities at Watkins Glen / Corning KOA Resort
The Watkins Glen / Corning KOA Resort, a popular choice for RVers visiting Watkins Glen State Park, offers a wide range of amenities to enhance your camping experience:
- Indoor heated pool
- Fitness center
- Wi-Fi
- Gigantic pirate ship playground
- Jumping Pillow
- Jump Pad
- Giant waterslide
- Army truck ride
- Theater in the woods
The campground’s convenient location near Watkins Glen State Park and other family-friendly hiking trails makes it an ideal base for your RV adventure.
Watkins Glen State Park is a true gem for RV enthusiasts, offering stunning natural beauty, a variety of recreational activities, and nearby campground options to suit your needs. Whether you’re exploring the park’s waterfalls, hiking the trails, or enjoying the amenities of the Watkins Glen / Corning KOA Resort, this destination is sure to leave a lasting impression.