Keuka Lake Day Trip

Keuka Lake and Hammondsport Day Trip From Hickory Hill

One of the best parts of staying at Hickory Hill is that you do not have to choose between campground time and Finger Lakes exploring. You can wake up to a quiet morning in Bath, spend part of the day near Keuka Lake, then come back for pool time, dinner and a campfire.

Hammondsport is the easiest lake-town day trip from the campground. It is close enough to keep the day simple, but full of enough history, lake views, food and small-town wandering to make the trip feel special.

Use this as a flexible day plan. Pick the pieces that fit your family, check current hours before you go, and leave enough time to return to Hickory Hill before everyone runs out of steam.

Start with a slow campground morning

A good Keuka Lake day does not need to begin early. Have breakfast at your site or rental, pack a small day bag and give the kids a little time to play before getting in the car. The drive to the Hammondsport area is short enough that you can avoid the rushed vacation feeling.

Bring water, sunscreen, a light layer, comfortable shoes and a plan for lunch. If you are traveling with kids, add snacks even if you are only going a few miles. Snacks are not a detail. Snacks are trip insurance.

Make the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum your first stop

The Glenn H. Curtiss Museum is one of Hammondsport's signature attractions. It tells the story of Glenn Curtiss, a pioneer aviator, motorcyclist and inventor with deep roots in the village. The museum has early aviation history, motorcycles, local exhibits and the kind of machines that make both kids and adults slow down for a closer look.

This is a strong first stop because it gives the day a real anchor. It is indoors, it works in mixed weather, and it connects the trip to local history rather than just scenery. Check current hours and admission details before you leave the campground.

Add the Finger Lakes Boating Museum for a lake story

If your family enjoys museums, the Finger Lakes Boating Museum is another worthwhile stop in the Hammondsport area. It focuses on the region's boating history, with galleries and exhibits tied to the Finger Lakes' long relationship with wooden boats, lake life and local craftsmanship.

You do not have to do both museums in one day, especially with younger kids. Choose the one that best fits your group, or split them across two different visits if you are staying longer.

Plan lunch in Hammondsport

After a museum stop, head into Hammondsport for lunch and a walk. The village has the kind of lake-town scale that works well for families: not too big, not too complicated, and easy to enjoy at a slower pace.

Casa Mezcal Flavors of Mexico in Hammondsport is a casual option to consider for families. The Park Inn offers a more elevated meal in the village if your group wants a sit-down lunch or dinner. Hours can change by season and day of week, so check before you promise lunch to hungry travelers.

Leave room for the lake

Keuka Lake is the reason many guests make the short drive. Even if your day is mostly museums and lunch, leave a little time to enjoy the lake-town setting. Take a short walk, find a view, let everyone stretch their legs, and take the family photo while nobody is in a hurry.

This is also a good place to keep the day simple. You do not need a packed itinerary to make Hammondsport feel worthwhile. Sometimes one museum, one meal and one lakeside pause are exactly enough.

Optional stops for adults

The Keuka Lake area is known for wineries and breweries, and adult guests may want to add a tasting room or scenic stop to the day. Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, Bully Hill Vineyards, Pleasant Valley Wine Company and several local breweries are all part of the broader Hammondsport-area experience.

Keep these as optional add-ons rather than the center of a family itinerary. If you are traveling with kids, choose one stop, check whether it fits your group, and make sure the day still feels comfortable for everyone. Hours, reservations and dining availability can change, so verify details before you go.

Head back for the best part of camping

A day trip feels better when it ends with room to relax. Give yourself time to return to Hickory Hill before dinner or before the evening activities begin. The kids may want the pool or mini golf. Adults may want a quiet hour at the site. The dog may want the dog park. Everyone will probably want dry shoes and a snack.

This is the real advantage of staying at a campground basecamp. You can explore the Finger Lakes during the day without giving up the easy pleasures of the campground at night.

A sample Hammondsport day from Hickory Hill

Start with breakfast at the campground, then drive to Hammondsport for the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum. Have lunch in the village, take a short lakeside walk, then choose one optional afternoon stop: the Finger Lakes Boating Museum, a shop, a scenic drive, or a tasting room for the adults. Return to Hickory Hill with enough daylight for dinner and a campfire.

For families with young kids, make the day shorter. For adults or multi-generational groups, add a second stop. For longer stays, consider doing Hammondsport once for museums and once for food, views and wineries.

Why this day trip works

Keuka Lake and Hammondsport give Hickory Hill guests a simple way to experience the Finger Lakes without spending the whole day in the car. The route is easy, the stops are flexible, and the reward is a day that feels local, scenic and relaxed.

You come back to the campground with something to talk about around the fire. That is usually the sign of a day trip worth taking.

Want a campground basecamp close to Keuka Lake? Pick your dates and check availability at Hickory Hill.

Cabin vs. Cottage vs. Lodge

Cabin vs. Cottage vs. Lodge: What to Know Before You Book

Not every family wants to camp the same way. Some love the RV setup. Some want the full tent experience. Others want fresh air, campfires and campground fun, but with a real bed and a private bathroom waiting at the end of the night.

That is where Hickory Hill's rental options come in. Cabins, cottages and lodges give guests a way to enjoy the campground without bringing an RV or tent. They still feel connected to the outdoors, but they make the practical parts of the trip easier, especially for families, grandparents and first-time campers.

The question is not which rental is best. The better question is which one fits your trip.

Start with what all rentals have in common

Every Hickory Hill rental type includes a private bathroom with a toilet, sink and standing shower. That is one of the biggest reasons families choose a rental instead of a tent or RV site. It makes mornings easier, bedtime easier and rainy days a little more comfortable.

All rentals also include utility-grade Wi-Fi, A/C and heat, a TV, a Keurig coffee maker, outdoor space for classic campground time, and pet-friendly options. Rental guests should bring their own linens, pillows and towels. Hickory Hill does not provide bedding or towels in cabins, cottages or lodges.

The biggest differences are space, kitchen setup and sleeping arrangement.

Choose a cabin for simple comfort

Cabins are the coziest rental option. Each cabin measures 12 feet by 12 feet, plus an attached full bathroom. They are built for guests who want the feel of a classic camping cabin with key comforts already in place.

A cabin sleeps four with a queen bed and bunk bed. Inside, guests have a microwave, mini-fridge, Keurig coffee maker, TV, A/C and heat. Outside, cabins include a covered porch, BBQ grill, fire pit and picnic table.

A cabin is a strong fit for a weekend stay, a small family, a couple who wants a simple basecamp, or guests who are new to camping and do not want to start with a tent. It is not the best fit if you want a full kitchen or extra indoor room for a larger group.

Choose a cottage for the best middle ground

Cottages are a step up in space and kitchen convenience. Each cottage measures 12 feet by 30 feet and includes a full kitchen, full-size fridge, stove and oven, microwave, Keurig coffee maker, full bathroom, TV, A/C, heat and ceiling fan.

The sleeping setup includes a queen bed, bunk beds and a futon, making cottages a good fit for families who want more flexibility than a cabin. The covered porch, porch swing, patio, BBQ grill and landscaped fire pit area give the stay a little more room to spread out outside too.

For many families, the kitchen is the deciding factor. Being able to make breakfast, store groceries and handle simple dinners inside can take pressure off the weekend. You still get the campfire, the porch and the campground feel, but meals become easier.

Choose a lodge for more space and longer stays

Lodges are Hickory Hill's most spacious rental units. They are made for families who want room to spread out, multi-generational trips, longer stays, or groups who prefer separate bedrooms and a larger indoor gathering space.

Lodges feature three bedrooms, a dining area, full bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen. Most include a full-size fridge, microwave, Keurig coffee maker, TV, A/C, heat, ceiling fan, BBQ grill, fire pit and outdoor seating. Sleeping capacity can vary by lodge, so the exact unit details should always be confirmed in Book Now before reserving.

If you are traveling with grandparents, older kids, or a family that needs more breathing room, a lodge may be the most comfortable fit. It is also the easiest rental choice for guests who want to cook more meals at the campground instead of relying on restaurants.

The kitchen question

Kitchen needs are often the clearest way to decide. Cabins have a microwave and mini-fridge, which works well for snacks, coffee, simple breakfasts and leftovers. Cottages and lodges have full kitchens, which are better for families who want to cook real meals during the trip.

A full kitchen can also make picky eaters, food allergies and early breakfasts easier. If your family likes to start the day slowly or eat dinner without leaving the campground, a cottage or lodge will probably feel more relaxed.

The sleeping question

Cabins work best when four people can sleep comfortably in a queen bed and bunk bed arrangement. Cottages add a futon, which gives families more flexibility. Lodges provide the most separation, with three bedrooms and unit-specific sleeping capacity.

Always check the exact rental details before booking, especially if your group is close to the occupancy limit. Comfort matters. A trip feels different when everyone has a place to sleep that actually works.

What to bring for any rental

The most important reminder is bedding. Bring sheets, blankets, pillows, bath towels and pool towels. Rental units include toilet paper, hand soap and shampoo/conditioner, but personal toiletries, food, favorite coffee supplies and bedtime comforts should come from home.

It also helps to bring easy outdoor items: camp chairs, roasting sticks, bug spray, sunscreen, flashlights and a few games for the porch or picnic table. Rentals make camping more comfortable, but the best parts still happen outside.

So which one should you book?

Choose a cabin if you want simple, cozy comfort for a small group. Choose a cottage if you want a full kitchen, porch time and more room for a family weekend. Choose a lodge if your group needs the most space, separate bedrooms and a larger setup for meals and downtime.

No matter which rental you choose, you will still be close to the Hickory Hill experience: fresh air, campfires, family-friendly amenities and a Finger Lakes basecamp where the day can be as busy or as slow as you want it to be.

Ready to compare cabins, cottages and lodges? Check availability and review rental details before you book.

Rainy Day Ideas Near Hickory Hill

Rainy Day Ideas Near Hickory Hill

Rain on a camping trip can feel dramatic when you see it in the forecast. Once you have a plan, it usually becomes something much smaller: a slower morning, a museum day, a cozy lunch, dry socks and a campfire later if the weather clears.

Hickory Hill is a helpful home base for exactly that kind of day. You can stay close and keep things simple, or you can turn the rain into a reason to explore Corning, Hammondsport or Keuka Lake. The key is to choose one good outing, not pack the day until everyone is tired.

Here are family-friendly rainy-day ideas to keep in your back pocket before your next Finger Lakes camping trip.

Make Corning your main rainy-day plan

Corning is about 21 miles from the Bath area, depending on route and traffic, which makes it one of the easiest rainy-day day trips from Hickory Hill. The centerpiece is the Corning Museum of Glass, a strong choice for families because it feels special without depending on perfect weather.

The museum is built around glass, art, science and live demonstrations, which gives kids something to watch instead of only something to read. It is the kind of place where different ages can find their own point of interest: color, fire, history, design, or the simple question of how something fragile can become so strong.

Before you go, check the museum's current hours, admission details and daily schedule. If your family wants to add a hands-on experience, review availability in advance because some activities may require a reservation or fill up on busy days.

Add downtown Corning if the weather lets up

If the rain turns into a drizzle, give yourself a little time in Corning's Gaffer District. Downtown Corning is known for Market Street, local shops, restaurants and an easy walkable feel. This is a good add-on when your family needs lunch, coffee, a treat, or a short stroll before heading back to the campground.

Keep it flexible. A rainy day with kids is not the time to insist on seeing every storefront. Pick one lunch spot, one shop, and maybe one dessert stop. Then head back while the day still feels like a win.

Choose Hammondsport for a closer, lighter outing

If you do not want a full Corning day, Hammondsport and the Keuka Lake area are closer to Hickory Hill and can work well when the weather is passing through. The Glenn H. Curtiss Museum is a strong indoor option for aviation, motorcycles and local history. It is especially good for families with curious kids, grandparents, or anyone who likes machines with a story behind them.

Another nearby option is the Finger Lakes Boating Museum, which celebrates the boating history of the region. It is a natural fit for a Keuka Lake day, especially if your family likes museums that feel connected to the place you are visiting.

As with any local attraction, check current hours before you leave the campground. Small museums and seasonal destinations can adjust schedules for events, private rentals or holidays.

Keep part of the day at the campground

A rainy day does not have to mean leaving for six hours. Sometimes the best plan is to take a shorter outing, then come back to Hickory Hill for a slower afternoon. This works especially well if you are staying in a cottage or lodge with a full kitchen, but it can work in any stay style with the right mindset.

Use the rain as permission to reset. Do laundry if the trip needs it. Visit the camp store for a treat. Play cards. Let younger kids rest. Make an easy dinner earlier than usual. If the weather clears, take a walk, play mini golf during store hours, or settle in for a campfire when conditions allow.

Pack a rainy-day bag before you leave home

A small rainy-day bag can save a surprising amount of energy. Pack rain jackets or ponchos, extra socks, a dry change of clothes for each child, a few compact games, coloring supplies, chargers and a plastic bag for wet items.

For rental stays, add cozy extras like slippers, a favorite blanket and simple breakfast food. For RV and tent campers, think in layers and waterproof storage. Nobody minds rain quite as much when the dry clothes stay dry.

A simple rainy-day itinerary

If the forecast looks wet from breakfast through afternoon, start slow at the campground. Make an easy breakfast and let the first wave of rain pass while everyone gets ready. Late morning, drive to Corning for the museum. Have lunch downtown or keep it simple with snacks and a packed meal. Return to Hickory Hill by late afternoon so the evening can be calm.

If the rain is scattered, choose Hammondsport instead. Visit one museum, get lunch, take a short drive near Keuka Lake if visibility is good, then return to the campground with plenty of daylight left.

Why rainy days can still become good memories

Kids remember the mood of a trip as much as the weather. If the adults treat rain as a small detour, the whole day feels easier. Put on the rain jackets. Choose one good place to go. Keep expectations low and snacks close.

The story may not be, Remember when everything went exactly as planned. More likely, it will be, Remember when it rained and we watched glass being made, or found that little lunch spot, or played cards until the sun came out.

That still counts as a Hickory Hill memory.

Planning a Finger Lakes camping trip with room for every kind of weather? Check availability and pick your dates.

What to Pack for Camping With Kids

What to Pack for a Stress-Free Camping Weekend With Kids

Packing for a family camping weekend can make you feel like you are moving the whole house outdoors. The trick is not to bring everything. The trick is to bring the things that keep the weekend from getting fussy.

At Hickory Hill, families have plenty to do once they arrive: pools and spray park in season, mini golf, playgrounds, the jumping pillow, trails, themed weekends and classic campfire time. That means your packing list should support a simple rhythm: sleep well, eat easily, stay dry, play outside and have a backup plan if the weather changes.

Here is a practical way to pack for a family camping weekend without overthinking every inch of the car.

Start with the bedtime bag

A good camping day can fall apart quickly if nobody sleeps. Pack bedtime first, especially if you are staying in a rental unit. Hickory Hill cabins, cottages and lodges do not include linens, pillows or towels, so rental guests should bring their own sheets, blankets, pillows, bath towels and pool towels.

For campsites, bring the sleeping gear that matches your setup, then add one extra layer for each person. Even warm Finger Lakes days can lead to cooler evenings, and kids who are comfortable at bedtime are much more likely to wake up ready for the next day.

A small bedtime routine helps too. Pajamas, toothbrushes, a favorite stuffed animal, one book and a flashlight in the same bag can save you from the end-of-night search through six different totes.

Pack clothes for real campground life

Camping clothes do not need to be cute. They need to survive wet grass, playground mulch, sunscreen, ice cream, campfire smoke and the mysterious dirt that appears on every child by breakfast.

Bring comfortable layers, extra socks and shoes that can handle a walk to the bathhouse, a trail, or a quick trip to the camp store. For summer stays, pack swimsuits and cover-ups where you can grab them quickly. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, the pools and splash park are a big part of the family routine, and kids rarely want to wait while someone digs through a suitcase.

A laundry bag is worth the space. It keeps wet towels and smoky sweatshirts from taking over the clean clothes, and it makes unpacking easier when you get home.

Build meals around easy wins

The best camping meals are the ones your family will actually eat when everyone is tired. Save the complicated recipes for another time and build your weekend around familiar food.

A good first-night dinner might be sandwiches, hot dogs, tacos in a bag, grilled cheese, pasta salad, or foil packets prepped at home. Breakfast can be just as simple: bagels, fruit, oatmeal, cereal, eggs, or pancakes if your family loves a griddle morning.

Think in meal kits instead of loose ingredients. Put everything for one meal in the same bin or cooler section. When dinner comes, you are not looking for the ketchup under a pile of breakfast food.

Do not forget the small things that cause the most annoyance: trash bags, paper towels, dish soap, a lighter, a cutting board, a sharp knife, reusable water bottles and a few clips or rubber bands for closing snack bags.

Plan for pool time and outdoor play

Pool and play gear should be easy to reach, not buried under bedding. Pack swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, goggles if your kids like them, sandals, dry clothes and a simple bag that can carry everything back from the pool area.

For outdoor play, keep it light. Hickory Hill already has built-in fun, including mini golf, playgrounds, a jumping pillow and trails. You do not need to bring a garage full of toys. A ball, bubbles, sidewalk chalk, a deck of cards and bikes or scooters if your family uses them responsibly may be plenty.

If you are bringing the dog, add leash basics, waste bags, food, bowls, a towel for muddy paws and proof of any paperwork you like to keep handy when traveling. Pets are welcome at Hickory Hill, and leashes are required throughout the park outside designated areas.

Give rainy weather a small, smart plan

Rainy-day packing should not take over the trip, but it should exist. A small bag with dry socks, ponchos or rain jackets, cards, coloring supplies, a compact board game and one quiet screen option can rescue a gray afternoon.

Hickory Hill is also close enough to make a rainy-day outing feel easy. Corning and Hammondsport both offer family-friendly stops, including museums, shops and places to eat. Check current hours before you go, then come back to the campground for a slower evening.

Keep campfire nights simple

Campfire packing is mostly about comfort. Bring chairs, roasting sticks, marshmallows, chocolate, graham crackers and a small flashlight or headlamp for each child. Add sweatshirts before the sun goes down, not after everyone is cold.

This is also a good place to pack a little nostalgia. A card game, a family story, a favorite snack from your own childhood, or a camera for the not-quite-perfect photos can make the evening feel less like a checklist and more like the reason you came.

The five-bag method

For families who want one simple system, try packing in five zones: bedtime, clothes, meals, pool and play, and rainy-day backup. Label each bag or bin clearly. When you arrive, put each one where it belongs instead of unpacking everything at once.

This keeps the campsite or rental from becoming a pile of mystery bags. More importantly, it lets the weekend start faster. The kids can go explore, the adults can breathe for a minute, and everyone knows where the dry socks are.

Before you leave home

A few days before your trip, check your reservation details, current activity information and the weather forecast. If you are staying in an RV or tent site, review your site details in the booking engine. If you are staying in a rental, make sure linens and towels are in the car before anything else.

You do not need a perfect packing list to have a wonderful weekend. You need the basics covered, a little flexibility and enough room in the plan for the kind of memories that happen on their own.

Ready for a weekend with less planning and more fresh air? Pick your dates and check availability.

How to Choose Your Site

How to Choose Your Hickory Hill Site

Choosing where to stay is the first real decision of a camping trip. It shapes how you cook, how you sleep, how much gear you bring, how close you stay to the classic camping feel, and how much comfort you want waiting at the end of the day.

At Hickory Hill, there is not one right way to camp. Some guests roll in with a large RV and want full hookups. Some want a simple tent site with fresh air and a campfire. Some want the camping feeling without towing anything at all, which is where cabins, cottages and lodges come in.

This guide is meant to help you narrow the choice before you click Book Now. The booking engine and site map are still the best source for individual site details, exact utilities, availability and unit-specific features.

Start with the kind of trip you want

Before comparing site categories, picture the trip itself. If your family plans to spend most of the weekend around the campsite, extra outdoor space may matter more. If you are using Hickory Hill as a Finger Lakes basecamp, a straightforward full-hookup site or comfortable rental may be just right. If this is your first camping trip with kids, choosing comfort can make the whole weekend feel easier.

A good rule is to choose based on your evenings. Days may be full of pools, mini golf, day trips or activities, but evenings are when the site really matters. Think about dinner, showers, bedtime, campfire time and where everyone will land when the day winds down.

For RV campers who want the most complete setup

Premium sites are the most elaborate RV sites at Hickory Hill. They are built for campers who enjoy a bigger footprint and an upgraded outdoor living area. At minimum, Premium sites include full hookups with 50/30/20 amp electric, water and sewer, plus utility-grade Wi-Fi, a concrete patio, a fire pit and either a picnic table or table and chairs.

This category is a strong fit for families who plan to spend real time at the site. It also works well for longer weekends, grandparents joining the trip, and anyone who likes the idea of slow mornings outside. Select Premium sites may include extra features such as a gazebo, bench swing or BBQ grill, but those details vary by individual site.

The safest way to choose a Premium site is to review the site map after you click Book Now. That is where you can compare the exact site details before making a decision.

For larger RVs and fifth wheels

Big Rig sites are designed for campers traveling with larger RVs who want a smoother setup and full hookups without necessarily choosing the most upgraded outdoor-living category. These sites include 50/30/20 amp electric, water and sewer, plus utility-grade Wi-Fi, a fire pit and picnic table.

If your biggest question is, Will my rig fit, do not rely on a general blog answer. Use the booking engine to review the site details for the exact site you are considering. RV length, layout and personal setup needs can vary, and the map is there to help you choose with confidence.

For full hookups with a simpler feel

The 50 Amp Electric, Water and Sewer sites are a straightforward full-hookup option for RV campers who want modern camping convenience with a classic campground rhythm. These sites include 50/30/20 amp electric, water and sewer, plus utility-grade Wi-Fi, a fire pit and a picnic table.

This is a practical fit for many RV travelers. You get the essentials, you stay connected to the campground experience, and you can spend your trip focused on family time instead of setup questions.

For smaller RVs and classic camping comfort

The 50/30 Amp Electric and Water category is best for smaller RVs and campers who do not necessarily need sewer at the site. Some sites in this category may include sewer, but utilities vary by individual site.

This is where the site map matters. If sewer, amperage or layout is important to your setup, check the details for the specific site before reserving. Safe planning now means a calmer arrival later.

For tents and small camper vans

Tent sites are ideal for guests who want the classic camping feeling with access to resort amenities. They are a good fit for tents, small camper vans and families who want fresh air, campfire time and a simpler stay.

Tent sites include electric and water, along with a fire pit, picnic table and utility-grade Wi-Fi. Exact utility details can be site specific, so check the booking map before you finalize your reservation.

For guests who want camping without the RV

Cabins, cottages and lodges are the best choice when you want the campground experience but do not want to bring an RV or tent. Every rental type has a private bathroom, which is a major comfort point for families and first-time campers.

Cabins are cozy and simple, with a queen bed, bunk bed, full bathroom, microwave, mini-fridge, Keurig coffee maker, TV, A/C and heat. Cottages add more space and a full kitchen, with a queen bed, bunk beds, futon, full bathroom, covered porch and outdoor hangout space. Lodges are the most spacious, with three bedrooms, dining area, full kitchen and full bathroom. Sleeping capacity varies by lodge, so confirm the exact unit in Book Now.

One important packing note applies to all rentals: linens, pillows and towels are not included. Bring sheets, blankets, pillows, towels and anything else your family likes for bedtime and showers.

The simplest way to decide

If outdoor living space matters most, start with Premium. If RV size and setup ease matter most, look at Big Rig. If full hookups are the priority, compare 50 Amp W/E/S sites. If you are camping smaller and simpler, review water/electric or tent sites. If you want comfort without towing gear, compare cabins, cottages and lodges.

The final choice should always come from the site map. Hookups, features and layouts vary by individual site, and the reservation engine is the source of truth for what is available on your dates.

A better site choice makes a better trip

The right site does not have to be the fanciest one. It has to fit your family, your rig, your packing style and the way you want the weekend to feel. When you choose with that in mind, the rest of the trip has a way of falling into place.

Ready to compare options? Check availability and view the site map before choosing your stay.

A 2-Day Family Camping Itinerary

A 2-Day Family Camping Itinerary at Hickory Hill

Some family trips start with a long list of places to be and times to keep. The best camping weekends usually work a little differently. You unpack once, let the kids find their favorite corner of the campground, and give the whole family enough room to make the weekend their own.

That is the beauty of a Hickory Hill weekend. You can fill the day with pools, mini golf, the jumping pillow, playground time and a campfire, but you do not have to schedule every minute. The campground gives you a comfortable home base in Bath, New York, with easy access to the Finger Lakes when you want a little adventure off property.

Use this itinerary as a starting point for a family camping weekend. Then leave a little space for the moments nobody plans, the extra lap around the campground, the second round of mini golf, the kid who suddenly becomes the keeper of the campfire stories.

Day 1: Arrive, settle in and let the weekend begin

Try to arrive with your first evening in mind. Campsite and rental check-in begins at 3pm, so a relaxed arrival plan usually works better than trying to squeeze in a full day of activity before you have even unpacked. Once you get to your site or rental, give everyone a small job: unfold chairs, find the flashlights, set up the picnic table, or walk the dog before dinner.

Families staying in an RV site can use the first hour to get settled and check the site details for hookups and features. Families in a cabin, cottage or lodge should make beds right away, since linens, pillows and towels are not provided in rental units. It is much easier to do that while everyone still has daylight and energy.

First stop: a campground walk

Before dinner, take an easy walk through the resort. Point out the places your family will probably use most, such as the pools and spray park in season, the playgrounds, mini golf, the jumping pillow, the camp store and the dog park. This little walk does more than help everyone get oriented. For kids, it turns the campground into a map of possibilities.

If you are visiting during a themed weekend, check the activity schedule during your stay. Planned activities and times may change with weather, staffing and the season, so the current schedule is always the best guide.

Dinner should be simple

The first night is not the time to prove anything. Keep dinner easy: grilled hot dogs, foil packets, sandwiches, pasta salad, or anything your family can eat without turning the campsite into a full kitchen. If you forgot a small essential, the camp store can help with many of those classic camping-trip misses.

After dinner, let the evening slow itself down. A short round of mini golf, a little playground time, a walk to see the sunset, then back to the fire pit. This is where the weekend starts to feel like a memory in the making.

Day 2: Make it a true Hickory Hill day

The second day is the one to enjoy the campground at full speed, or at half speed, depending on your family. Start with an easy breakfast at your site or rental. Pancakes, bagels, cereal and fruit all work well because nobody has to think too hard before coffee.

Morning: play before the heat of the day

Use the morning for the activities that burn off energy. The jumping pillow is a favorite for kids and is open during store hours, weather permitting. Mini golf is another good morning choice because it works for mixed ages. Younger kids get to play, older kids get just competitive enough, and adults can participate without needing sneakers and a stopwatch.

If your family likes quieter mornings, trade the activity rush for a walk on the hiking trails or a slow loop around the campground with the dog. Hickory Hill has a large dog park and doggie stations throughout the park, which makes bringing the family pup feel more manageable.

Midday: pool time, lunch and a reset

From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, the pools and splash park are a natural centerpiece of the day. They are open daily during posted seasonal hours, with no lifeguard on duty, so families should plan to supervise closely and take breaks as needed.

Build a lunch plan around convenience. Eat at the site, head back to the rental kitchen if you are staying in a cottage or lodge, or keep a cooler stocked with easy favorites. A midday reset matters. It keeps the afternoon from turning into the overtired part of vacation that nobody writes about in the scrapbook.

Afternoon: choose one bigger moment

This is a good time to pick one thing rather than five. Maybe it is another swim. Maybe it is a round of 18-hole mini golf. Maybe it is a wagon ride if one is scheduled. Maybe it is a short drive toward Hammondsport or Keuka Lake, then back to the campground before dinner.

The goal is not to do everything. It is to give the day a shape. One bigger moment is usually enough, especially when the kids still want room for the small things, snacks, bikes, playground friends, and a few more bounces before bedtime.

Evening: campfire, stories and the good kind of tired

The second night is when the campground rhythm usually settles in. Dinner feels easier. Everyone knows where the flashlights are. The kids have a favorite place to go. The adults have figured out which chair is theirs.

Plan a campfire night if weather and current fire guidelines allow. Keep dessert simple and let the evening stretch a little. The best family camping memories are often not the biggest events of the weekend. They are the jokes that get repeated, the marshmallow that goes wrong, the grandparent telling the same story one more time because this is exactly the place for it.

Rainy day swap: keep the weekend moving

Rain does not have to ruin the trip. Hickory Hill is close enough to Corning for a museum day, and the Corning Museum of Glass is one of the best rainy-day options in the region. You can also keep the day smaller with board games, a trip to the camp store, a quiet meal in a rental, or a drive to Hammondsport if the weather is passing through.

Pack one small rainy-day bag before you leave home. Cards, coloring books, a puzzle, dry socks and a movie option for the evening can turn a gray day into a cozy one.

Before you book

Hickory Hill offers RV sites, tent sites, cabins, cottages and lodges, so the best family itinerary starts by choosing the stay style that fits your crew. If you want more outdoor living space, look closely at RV site categories. If you want a private bathroom and a place to sleep without bringing an RV, compare cabins, cottages and lodges. Site features and sleeping capacity can vary by individual site or unit, so the booking map is the best place to confirm details.

Ready to make your own Hickory Hill weekend? Check availability and pick your dates.

Themed Weekends Are Back

Themed Weekends Are Back: Your 2026 Season Preview at Hickory Hill

For years, families have come to Hickory Hill for a lot of different reason, but our themed weekends are right at the top of the list. This year is no different, and we’re excited to kick off another season of easy, memory-making fun starting May 1, 2026. The themes are here, the calendar is stacked, and the only question is: which weekend feels most like your crew?

Ready to start plotting out summer? Here’s the fastest way to make it real: check availability and pick your dates.

What a themed weekend feels like

Hickory Hill’s themed weekends are the kind of trips your family talks about long after you’ve unpacked. It’s not just “a weekend at the campground” — it’s a weekend with a built-in vibe. The theme gives everyone something to look forward to, something to join in on, and something that makes the whole park feel connected.

For you, that means less time wondering “what should we do today?” and more time watching the kids light up because there’s always something fun happening nearby. For the kids, it means they’re part of the action — the kind of day where they make a new friend at an activity, come back to the campsite full of stories, and fall asleep fast after a day that actually felt big.

And for the whole crew, it’s the perfect balance: join in for as much as you want, then drift right back to the best parts of camping — pool breaks, playtime, slow mornings, and campfire nights that stretch a little longer than planned.

The season starts with a bang (May and June)

Opening month brings that “we’re back!” energy, then it rolls straight into the weekends families plan around.

A few highlights to circle now:

• Opening Weekend (May 1 to May 3)

• Celebrate Mama Bear (May 4 to May 10)

• Spin to Win - BOGO (May 11 to May 17)

• Memorial Day Weekend (May 18 to May 25)

• Down on the Farm (May 26 to May 31)

• Hook, Line & Treasure (Jun 1 to Jun 7)

• Field Day Frenzy (Jun 8 to Jun 14)

• Cheers to Dad (Jun 15 to Jun 21)

• Scampers Birthday Bash (Jun 22 to Jun 28)

Peak-summer weekends (July and August)

This is where the calendar turns into full summer mode. Think splashy days, happy chaos, and the kind of weekends where bedtime happens fast.

A few can’t-miss summer favorites:

• Stars, Stripes & S’Mores (Jun 29 to Jul 5)

• Wet N’ Wild I (Jul 6 to Jul 12)

• Pet Lovers (Jul 13 to Jul 19)

• Santa’s Summer Workshop (Jul 20 to Jul 26)

• Wet N’ Wild II (Jul 27 to Aug 2)

• Death By Chocolate (Aug 3 to Aug 9)

• Need for Speed (Aug 10 to Aug 16)

• Under the Sea (Aug 17 to Aug 23)

• Campfire & Chill (Aug 24 to Aug 30)

And if you’re the “squeeze every drop out of summer” type:

• Labor Day Weekend (Aug 31 to Sep 7)

• Summer Sendoff - BOGO (Sep 8 to Sep 13)

• Roar & Explore (Sep 14 to Sep 20)

• S’More Wine Please (Sep 21 to Sep 27)

Want to scroll the whole lineup in one place? See all events and themed weekends.

How to pick your weekend like a pro:

If planning feels overwhelming, here’s the simple approach that works every time:

1. Pick one “anchor” weekend your family will be excited about.

2. Choose your stay style next (RV, tent, or a cabin-style stay) to match your crew.

3. If it’s a holiday week, grab it early. Those are the first to get snapped up.

Ready to plan your Hickory Hill summer getaway?

Hickory Hill opens May 1, and this season is packed with themed weekends made for real family fun. If you’re dreaming about pool days, campfire nights, and the kind of weekends that turn into “remember when…” stories, now’s the perfect time to make it official. Check availability and book your stay, then start the countdown to that first campground morning: coffee outside, fresh air, and a full day of fun ahead.

Your Finger Lakes Basecamp

Hickory Hill Camping Resort: Your Finger Lakes Basecamp for Summer

For over 40 years, families have returned to Hickory Hill Camping Resort for the same simple reason: it feels like summer the moment you arrive. It’s the kind of place where kids make fast friends, neighbors wave from the next site, and the best parts of the day happen in the in-between moments, coffee outside, a spontaneous game, a campfire that runs a little long.

And this season comes with a meaningful milestone. Hickory Hill has been family-owned for decades, with the Lehman family at the heart of its story, and 2026 marks a new chapter as Alan and Andrea Lehman step in to carry the legacy forward. The goal stays the same: keep the traditions people love, add fresh touches, and make it even easier for families to build “remember when…” weekends.

Want the story behind the place before you plan your trip? Watch this short video about Hickory Hill’s rich history.

Hickory Hill opens May 1, 2026. If you’re already thinking about summer, you don’t have to wait to start planning. Check availability and book your stay.

Choose your stay style

Hickory Hill is a “stay your way” kind of campground. Whether your ideal weekend is classic tent camping, rolling in with the RV, or having a comfy place to crash after a full day outside, you can build the trip that fits your crew.

You’ll find options that include:

• RV camping (hookups and features vary by individual site, so it’s best to review the site details as you book)

• Tent camping for that back-to-basics, under-the-stars feeling

• Cabins, cottages, and lodges when you want campground fun with indoor comfort

When you’re ready to pick your home base, check availability and choose your dates.

What to do at the park

Some campgrounds are a place you sleep between day trips. Hickory Hill can absolutely be your basecamp for exploring, but it also has plenty of “we never even left the park” kind of days.

Make it a pool day

Summer here has a rhythm. A swim, a snack, a break in the shade, then right back to the water. Hickory Hill features two heated pools and a spray park (seasonal), so it’s easy to build your day around splash time.

The classics that keep everyone happy

A few on-site favorites that tend to become part of the routine:

• Jumping pillow energy for kids who wake up ready to move

• Mini golf for low-stress family competition

• Playgrounds for quick “just one more minute” stops

• Basketball court for pickup games and family challenges

• Hiking trails for a quieter reset in the middle of the fun

• Dog park for campers traveling with their four-legged family members

Traditions that make it feel like Hickory Hill

This is where the “people come back every year” part really shows up. Classic campground traditions like bingo night are part of the fabric here, and the kind of thing families look forward to as soon as they start talking about dates.

You’ll also see a mix of familiar favorites and newer additions. Expect fun ways to get around the grounds (including golf carts, with rentals available in limited quantity), plus fresh ideas designed to add energy without changing the laid-back feel.

The little things that make vacation easier

The best trips are the ones that feel simple. On-site conveniences like the camp store and laundromat help keep things smooth, even when your crew is running at full summer speed.

Themed weekends and events

If you’ve heard someone rave about Hickory Hill, there’s a good chance they mentioned themed weekends. They’re one of the biggest reasons families plan their summers here.

Hickory Hill’s themed weekends are what turn a regular camping trip into a weekend your kids talk about on the ride home. The theme gives everyone something to rally around, something fun to step into, and that “the whole campground is in on it” feeling. You can join in as much as you want, then drift right back to the good stuff, pool breaks, playtime, slow mornings, and campfire nights.

Want to see what’s coming and choose your vibe? Explore the themed weekends and events calendar.

Things to do nearby in the Finger Lakes

One of the best parts of staying at Hickory Hill is how easy it is to mix campground time with Finger Lakes exploring. You can do a relaxed morning at the park, head out for an afternoon adventure, and still be back for dinner at your site and a fire at night.

Here are a few nearby favorites that pair perfectly with a camping weekend:

• Corning for a walkable downtown and the Corning Museum of Glass

• Hammondsport and Keuka Lake for lake-town views and easy exploring

• Watkins Glen for iconic scenery and a “wow” kind of outing

• Penn Yan for browsing, wandering, and a change-of-pace afternoon

• Dansville for nearby nature outings and waterfall-hike energy

If your trip style is “camping plus a day trip,” Hickory Hill makes that plan feel effortless.

A simple plan for a great day

If you like the idea of a loose itinerary that still feels like you made the most of your stay, try this:

1. Slow morning at your site: coffee outside, breakfast, a stroll.

2. Big on-site fun: pools, spray park, jumping pillow, mini golf.

3. Optional adventure: a Finger Lakes afternoon outing.

4. Best part: back to the campground for snacks, showers, and campfire time.

Ready to make it a Hickory Hill summer?

May 1 is the start line, and once you’ve got your dates on the calendar, the rest gets easy. Pick your stay style, build in a little pool time, circle a themed weekend (or two), and save room for those laid-back campfire nights that turn into your family’s favorite stories.

Check availability and book your stay, then let the countdown begin.

A Campground Built on Tradition

Hickory Hill’s Story: A Family Campground Built on Tradition

Some campgrounds are nice places to stay. Others become part of a family’s timeline.

Hickory Hill Camping Resort has been that kind of place for generations of campers in Bath, New York, where summer isn’t just a season, it’s a tradition. And in 2026, that tradition gets a fresh chapter: the park opens May 1, 2026, welcoming guests back with the same familiar feel people love, plus new energy from the next generation of the family.

If you want the quick, feel-good version of the story, you can watch this video about Hickory Hill’s rich history.

A campground with roots that go back decades

Hickory Hill was founded in 1962 by Frank and Evelyn Brundage. In 1979, the campground was entrusted to Randy Lehman, who took the reins at just 23 years old and spent more than four decades shaping Hickory Hill into the kind of place families return to again and again.

That long stewardship matters, because campgrounds aren’t just land and amenities. They’re the small details that get polished over years: where the fun happens, how guests are welcomed, what traditions stick, and how a place learns what families actually want from a getaway.

The “why” behind the loyalty

Ask people why they come back, and you’ll hear versions of the same answer: Hickory Hill feels like camping the way it’s supposed to feel.

It’s relaxed, welcoming, and built for together time. The kind of place where kids have room to roam, parents can actually exhale, and the weekend doesn’t require a spreadsheet to be fun.

Over time, those weekends start stacking into something bigger:

• First camping trips that become annual traditions

• Kids who grow up coming here, then come back with their own kids

• “Remember when…” stories that get told every summer like a family ritual

Passing the torch, keeping the feel

In 2025, Alan and Andrea Lehman made a big leap, leaving their corporate careers to come home to the Finger Lakes and step into leadership at the family campground. It’s not a “reinvent everything” moment. It’s a “keep what people love and keep building” moment.

That means holding tight to the heart of Hickory Hill, the traditions, the easy fun, the sense of community, while adding thoughtful improvements that make the guest experience even better. You’ll see the park being cared for, the grounds being refreshed, and more ways to enjoy your stay without losing that classic, familiar vibe.

What that history means for your family vacation

When a campground has been family-run for decades, you feel it in the way the place operates. It’s not just service. It’s pride. It’s a sense of responsibility to the memories that happen there.

For you, that translates to a vacation that’s easy to settle into:

• You can choose the “camping style” that fits your crew, from RV and tent camping to cabin-style stays

• You’ll find plenty to do without feeling like you have to do everything

• The park’s themed weekends and seasonal events add extra fun, but always with that low-pressure campground rhythm

Plan your next chapter

Whether you’ve been coming for years or you’re discovering Hickory Hill for the first time, 2026 is a great season to start a new tradition. The park opens May 1, 2026, and summer has a way of filling up fast once it’s on the calendar.

If you’re ready to make it official, check availability and book your stay.

And if you want to see the story behind the place before you pick your dates, watch the Hickory Hill legacy video here.