Mountainside Camp Site, Naples, NY

For New York residents looking to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the state, Mountainside Camp Site offers a uniquely rustic and primitive camping experience. Situated in the picturesque hills near Naples, in the renowned Finger Lakes region, this campsite is a hidden gem for the fully equipped camper who values quiet solitude over resort-style amenities. It caters specifically to those seeking an "off the beaten path" retreat, where the sounds of wildlife and the sight of a starlit sky replace the noise and clutter of modern life.

Mountainside Camp Site is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a nature haven. The setting is a private, forested patch of land surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Finger Lakes, offering a genuine 'wild camping' feel. Reviews from local users frequently describe the atmosphere as "quiet and peaceful," emphasizing the opportunity to be "out away from everyone." This commitment to providing a truly secluded and tranquil experience is a significant draw for New Yorkers needing a substantial break from urban density and stress. It’s an ideal base camp for exploring the surrounding Finger Lakes culture, hiking trails, and wine country, all while retreating to a private, primitive space each evening.

Importantly, prospective visitors from the New York region should be aware that Mountainside Camp Site embraces a "dry camping" or "primitive" style. This means there is no running water or electricity at most sites, encouraging a return to traditional camping methods. While this might not suit every camper, it is precisely this rustic approach that guarantees the remote, peaceful setting that is so highly praised by those who choose to stay here. The limited, well-spaced sites ensure privacy, making it perfect for families, large groups, or solo adventurers who prize personal space and quietude.

Location and Accessibility for New York Adventurers

Mountainside Camp Site is located at 2047 NY-245, Naples, NY 14512, USA. While the address places it near Naples, the campground is technically situated in the rural Town of Italy, NY, at the southern tip of Canandaigua Lake. This specific location offers both seclusion and convenient access to the region’s best attractions.

Accessibility is one of the camp’s greatest assets for local New York users. The site is a short, approximately five-minute drive from the idyllic Town of Naples, which serves as a crucial hub for necessities, featuring convenience stores, restaurants, a farmers’ market, and charming antique shops. For recreation, the campground acts as a gateway to the vast opportunities of the Finger Lakes region. It is only about 25 minutes by car from the shores of Canandaigua Lake, and within an hour's drive, campers can reach seven of the eleven Finger Lakes, including Keuka and Seneca, renowned for their stunning natural parks and world-class wine tours. Major hiking destinations are within easy reach, such as Grimes Glen Park in Naples and Keuka Lake State Park. Although the site itself is primitive, its proximity to NY-245 and the local towns ensures that while you feel completely off-grid, supplies and attractions are never truly out of reach.

Services Offered by Mountainside Camp Site

The services at Mountainside Camp Site are deliberately minimal, adhering to its primitive, back-to-nature philosophy. The available services are focused on ensuring a comfortable and well-organized, yet fully rustic, experience for the well-prepared camper.

P Designated Primitive Camp Sites: The camp offers several distinct tent camping sites, including secluded options ("Eagle's Nest") high up the mountain and more accessible sites ("Base Camp") closer to parking.
P Basic Sanitation: A portable toilet (Porta Potty) is provided near the main parking/driveway area for essential sanitation needs, complete with toilet paper.
P Firewood and Fire Rings: Each designated site typically includes a fire ring and benches, with firewood often provided by the host or readily available for gathering in the surrounding woods.
P Basic RV Parking: A specific "Roadside" site is available as the primary spot for parking an RV or for a quick overnight stop, which is close to the road and the portable toilet.
P Pet-Friendly Environment: Well-behaved dogs are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash and pet owners are fully responsible for cleanup and supervision, adhering to the camp’s commitment to a peaceful environment.
P Wildlife Viewing: The camp’s deep forest setting naturally includes regular visits from local wildlife, such as deer and owls, offering a built-in nature viewing experience.

Features and Highlights for New York Campers

The true highlights of Mountainside Camp Site are its inherent natural qualities and the opportunity it provides for a rare type of retreat in the New York landscape.

P Deep Forest Seclusion: The top highlight is the exceptionally private and peaceful forest setting, with sites intentionally spaced out, making it one of the most secluded camping options in the region.
P Proximity to Finger Lakes Culture: Despite the remote feel, the camp is a convenient base for exploring the world-famous Finger Lakes wine region, local breweries, and cultural events like the annual Naples Grape Festival.
P Natural Scenery and Sounds: Campers often note the beauty of the well-maintained campsites, the calming presence of seasonal creeks and streams, and the natural symphony of owls and hawks overhead.
P Dry Camping / Off-Grid Experience: Ideal for experienced campers, the primitive style—no running water, no electricity—is a featured highlight for those who seek to truly "unplug" and practice authentic self-sufficient camping.
P Hiking and Exploration Potential: The 13-acre site itself is heavily wooded and hilly, offering rugged terrain and trails for on-site exploration, plus immediate access to the broader Finger Lakes Trail system nearby.
P Group-Friendly Layout: With large sites that can accommodate multiple tents and up to 10-15 people (depending on the site), it is well-suited for family gatherings or large outdoor enthusiast groups from the New York area.

Contact Information

For reservations, current site availability, or detailed questions regarding the primitive nature of the camping experience at Mountainside Camp Site, please use the following contact details:

Address: 2047 NY-245, Naples, NY 14512, USA

Phone: (585) 261-5461

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

Mountainside Camp Site is perfectly suited for a specific segment of the New York population: those who crave raw, unspoiled nature and genuine solitude without traveling hundreds of miles. In a densely populated state, finding such a deeply private, primitive, and "off-the-grid" forest setting is increasingly rare. For locals, this means less travel time and more time spent enjoying the outdoors.

Its location in the Finger Lakes region is a strategic advantage. Campers can spend their days hiking through state parks like Grimes Glen, fishing in nearby state creeks, touring wineries, or enjoying a meal in the charming town of Naples, knowing they have a quiet, peaceful sanctuary to return to. The affordability of the campsites further enhances its appeal, offering an inexpensive retreat into the natural beauty of Western New York. By providing a truly rustic experience, the Mountainside Camp Site encourages New Yorkers to reconnect with nature, practice essential outdoor skills, and relax in an environment where the only noise is the gentle sound of the forest. It is a necessary and highly valued resource for deep relaxation and authentic outdoor adventure.