Cabins near Adams Basin, New York combine rustic charm with modern conveniences. Located in western New York state, the region sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level with a temperate climate featuring warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The area rests at the edge of Lake Ontario's watershed, creating abundant waterways and access points for water activities from late spring to early fall.
What to do
Hiking at Letchworth State Park: Known locally as the "Grand Canyon of the East," the park offers extensive trails through dramatic gorges. "Wandering around the gorge is so beautiful and relaxing the views and sights inside the park are amazing, it's almost like another world at times," notes Jason, who stayed at Letchworth State Park Campground.
Frisbee golf at Darien Lakes: The park maintains a fully designed course through wooded areas. "There is a fairly new Frisbee golf course as well. This campground would be a good alternative to paying the high prices to stay at the theme park down the road," says Jeremy H., who found Darien Lakes State Park Campground to be a quiet escape.
Kayaking from Webster Park: The proximity to Lake Ontario creates excellent paddling opportunities. "It is within an hour drive of many different areas for recreation and is close to Lake Ontario and the Genesee River," explains Dorothy P., who appreciated Webster Park for its recreational access.
What campers like
Lighthouse tours: Golden Hill State Park's historic thirty-mile lighthouse provides educational opportunities. "Be sure to visit the light house on your visit. With standard sites and a beautiful water for fishing this camp ground is great for a weekend or even for a day hike or a nice game of frisbee golf. Lots of history at this place!" recommends Meag F. from Golden Hill State Park Campground.
Fishing with minimal gear: Sleepy Hollow Lake Campground offers easy fishing for beginners. "The camp store offered a few grocery items, along with cold drinks, firewood and ice in addition to laundry facilities. Within a short walk were many hiking trails, an old-school fitness path, and a stellar playground where anyone under 9 years of age should get a great workout," notes Shari G., who found the campground amenities extensive.
Privacy between sites: Big Guys Campground offers spacious sites with good separation. "All the sites are large and designed for family and friends to contact and enjoy," says Marie, who appreciates the Big Guys Campground layout.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most cabin facilities operate from May through mid-October due to harsh winter conditions. "We stayed at this campground when we went to Niagara falls. It's a small campground but has clean bath houses and a relaxing atmosphere. Not much to do but fish or walk trails but that's how we like it. Nice park to go to after a long day at the falls. Just relax by the fire," reports Dawn T. about Darien Lakes State Park Campground.
Cell phone reception: Coverage can be spotty depending on location and carrier. "Cell phone coverage is poor by Verizon and T-Mobile, and there is no WiFi, and no camp store (but the town of Webster is nearby)," warns Carl C. about Webster Park, information to note when planning your stay.
Shower facilities: Quality varies significantly between parks. "The showers in the bathrooms were phenomenal - very clean with hot water and a private dressing area next to the shower. Showers were ADA compliant and had shower seats," reports Leah L., who appreciated the accessibility at Golden Hill State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for independence. "We stay close to the playground these days in our pop up usually at site 5 so our 5 and 9 year old can walk or ride to campground. We like site 1 as well. The campground is very quiet and very kid friendly to allow them to walk around and ride or scooter the loop alone," advises Scott C. about Webster Park.
Swimming options: Canandaigua-Rochester KOA offers both lake and pool swimming. "This KOA has all that you need for a relaxing family trip. It is close to the finger lakes, is clean, has kid activities and a pond where the fish are easy to catch with hotdogs!" shares Amy T. about the Canandaigua-Rochester KOA.
Weather considerations: Summer thunderstorms can occur suddenly. "Beautiful state park, very lush green from all the rain unfortunately the smoke from the Canadian fires near have made it unhealthy here, especially strenuous outdoor activities," notes Jeff A. about conditions at Letchworth, highlighting how regional weather patterns can affect your stay.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring blocks. "Almost all of the sites are not even close to level. Not a big issue with a fifth wheel but a real hassle with a motorcoach. We changed sites three times and finally resigned ourselves to not being leveled," cautions Donna C. about Red's Twilight on the Erie RV Resort.
Hookup locations: Water connections may be in unexpected places. "Our water hook up was in the middle of someone's site," notes Sparks N. about Canandaigua-Rochester KOA, highlighting the importance of bringing extra hose length.
Dump station access: Plan your arrival and departure times accordingly. "The sites are very nice and well maintained. There are campers for rent, cabins for rent, tent sites, RV sites and premium RV sites," mentions Mary H. about Six Flags Darien Lake Campground, noting the variety of accommodation options available beyond just cabin rentals.
