Best Campgrounds near Alfred, NY

Palmers Pond State Forest provides free dispersed camping opportunities in the rural landscape surrounding Alfred, New York. This primitive camping area features grassy terrain around a small pond where visitors can set up tents with no hookups or facilities. Several developed campgrounds are also located within a 30-minute drive, including Sugar Creek Glen Campground and Kanakadea Park near Almond Lake, which offer more amenities for RV and tent campers. The Allegany County region contains a mix of state forests with primitive sites and private campgrounds with cabin rentals, creating options for various camping styles and comfort levels.

Most camping areas near Alfred have seasonal considerations, with many campgrounds operating from May through October. State forest camping at Palmers Pond remains open year-round but may have limited access during winter months when unplowed roads become difficult to navigate. Navigation to some sites requires specific directions, as several reviewers noted GPS sometimes leads to incorrect locations. A camper wrote: "The directions took us to a dead end like the other reviews stated. Do not take Palmers Pond road. When you get off of Interstate 86 you will want to take turnpike rd to south road." Camping at higher elevations can experience rapid weather changes, with significant temperature drops at night even during summer months.

Waterside camping locations receive particularly positive feedback from visitors to the Alfred area. Palmers Pond State Forest offers shoreline camping with fishing opportunities, while developed campgrounds like Sugar Creek Glen feature creek-side tent areas. Several visitors highlighted the peaceful setting at Palmers Pond State Forest, with one noting "abundant flat and grassy terrain under pines near a beautiful lake." Kanakadea Park receives mixed reviews regarding noise levels, with some mentioning road noise and others appreciating the quiet lake setting for kayaking and fishing. For those seeking more amenities, nearby Trout Run Camp Resort provides full hookup sites, a heated pool, and organized activities, though these developed campgrounds tend to fill quickly during summer weekends and holiday periods.

Best Camping Sites Near Alfred, New York (163)

    1. Palmers Pond State Forest

    8 Reviews
    Alfred, NY
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (585) 466-3241

    "Beautiful grassy spots around the pond and along the road in. Google maps directed us to a dead end, go in through the north entrance and you’ll be good!"

    "I was able to set up next to the water with no problem. Definitely will be back."

    2. Sugar Creek Glen Campground

    7 Reviews
    Almond, NY
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (585) 335-6294

    "There was outer edges of a tropical storm when we went so lots of rain! The bathrooms are clean - quarter showers were nice and hot!"

    "It was right next to the river and actually very nice! They ever had karaoke at night, which was fun and different! Great place !!"

    3. Stony Brook State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Dansville, NY
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (585) 335-5530

    $21 - $90 / night

    "We stayed for two day and hike the trails. The gorge trail has all the waterfalls and you can walk right next to them."

    "The campground side doesn't open until around 11 we were told, and we reached at 8am, so we started at the North (day-use) side, parked there, hiked, ate, and eventually drove back to the other side, checked"

    4. Letchworth State Park Campground

    77 Reviews
    Perry, NY
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (585) 493-3600

    $300 / night

    "Letchworth State Park is known as the Grand Canyon of the East and is located in Mt. Morris New York. My husband and I visited regularly when we lived near Rochester, NY."

    "Not technically in the Finger Lakes but still one of the most beautiful parts of Western New York State. Splurge and eat at the Glen Iris Inn! Great for cycling and hiking but no swimming."

    5. Kanakadea Park

    4 Reviews
    Almond, NY
    8 miles
    Website

    "Nice lake for kayaking and fishing. The finger lakes trail runs through the campground. Did a 5.5 mile hike up Pennsylvania Hill today. A little road noice and no water hookups."

    6. Kanakadea Park - Almond Lake

    2 Reviews
    Almond, NY
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 664-2460

    "This is a park with a lake. In the green rolling hills of the Finger Lakes. Grassy open fields are nice but not private. Used the basic tent setup. Clean, grounds kept up nice, simple, no water."

    "Lots of things to do from paddling and fishing to hiking trails or learning about the dam. There is an observation deck and ball fields available."

    7. Evergreen Trails Campground

    4 Reviews
    Belfast, NY
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (716) 466-7993

    "The cabins next to us were very loud so that was distracting. The cabins looked very nice though.
    The shower house was clean and nice but did cost money, which I think is not appropriate."

    8. Trout Run Camp Resort

    3 Reviews
    Wellsville, NY
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (585) 596-0500

    "The camp ground had trash cans available in multiple locations to throw away garbage. They offer tubing on the River. They have a very nice salt water pool and extras for the kids to do."

    9. Riverside Park Campground

    1 Review
    Wellsville, NY
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (585) 593-3856

    10. Watkins Glen State Park Campground

    90 Reviews
    Watkins Glen, NY
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (607) 535-4511

    $24 - $58 / night

    "Watkins Glen boasts one of New York’s most beautiful state parks! I last camped here in 2012 and absolutely loved hiking along the gorges. Also- the camping was next to perfect."

    "Definitely one of the top places to camp and visit in New York, Watkins Glen State Park never disappoints. Each time I come back, I find something new to discover and have a great time doing that."

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Recent Reviews near Alfred, NY

600 Reviews of 163 Alfred Campgrounds


  • julian S.
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Tiadaghton Campground — Tioga State Forest

    Very crowded with bikers

    Nice campsite and cool view but be prepared to have a lot of bikers walking around the campground or stopping for lunch at near by sites. Also would recommend 4 wheel drive vehicles to drive to site, steep dirt roads to access it. It has a nice water front view but if seclusion is something you would like this spot may not be for you.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Would Stay again

    We stayed here for 2 nights car camping. quiet and clean. spots had fire rings and picnic tables. Bathrooms were clean and had potable water. There were lots of horses. There are hiking trails right out of the site! would absolutely stay here again!

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Free camping with amenities!

    26 camp sites with bathrooms! That flush! Very quiet and the sites aren’t on top of each other. People bring their horses. You can drive to to your site and tent camp or camper camp. I would come back!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Watkins Glen State Park Campground

    Nice campground in a gorgeous state park.

    Nice pretty campground, only electric hookup for the RV sites, tho. The showers were cool, no hot water. Close to some gorgeous hiking tho! And town is about a mile away with shops, restaurants and on the edge of one of the Finger Lakes to make it beautiful!

  • Roger V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    beautiful spots near pond or in woods

    if the lake spots are busy check the woods, there are a bunch more nice spots. dispersed free LNT style. no services. would stay here again.

  • Dana M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Lyman Run State Park Campground

    Quiet, Quaint and Clean!

    We love the lower loop! We were there on a Monday night and there were 4 sites occupied on our loop. Great stars. Clean bathrooms!

  • Dayne B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill

    Inexpensive, Peaceful.

    I've stayed here on 3 separate occasions, twice in RV 12 and once in RV 6. 

    I used the 30 AMP hookup and had zero issues.

    Beautiful playground for my son to enjoy and meet other kiddos. Deer, chipmunks and rabbits will say hi in the early and late hours.

    Large dumpsters near entrance. 

    Dump stations are present, but I haven't used them yet. 

    Potable water is present at a small spigot. 

    The washrooms facility is very close and speaking for the men's side, it had 2 stalls, 2 urinals, 2 showers, multiple sinks, and a sturdy baby changing station.

    Hiking trails with gorgeous views of the valley within a 5 min walk of my campsite.

  • B
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Leonard Harrison State Park Campground

    Small campground with clean bathrooms

    We stayed here Wednesday through Saturday of Labor Day weekend.  On Wednesday and Thursday nights there were about 5 sites that were taken. By Friday they were all full

    The campground is a simple loop of 28 sites.  19 are non -electric and 9 are electric. Sites are spacious and easy to back in to. I believe there are two pull throughs. Water spigots are continently located around the campground.  

    The PA Grand Canyon Visitor center and the Turkey Path (main path down into the canyon) are a short 5 minute walk across the parking lot from the campground.  For biking there is the  Pine Creek Rail Trail, that runs the length of the canyon at the bottom. To access from the campground you can drive there in 16 minutes Darling Run trail access area.

  • David A.
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Tiadaghton Campground — Tioga State Forest

    Tiadaghaton State Forest, PA

    Roadside site 1/4 mile from the nearest site. You can drive right to the site on Hackett Rd. Very secluded and peaceful. Picnic table and fire ring, but no water or latrine.


Guide to Alfred

Campers exploring Alfred, New York will find themselves in the western Finger Lakes region at elevations ranging from 1,400-2,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates across camping areas. Temperature swings between day and night can exceed 30°F even in summer months. State forest camping options remain accessible year-round, though some smaller access roads aren't maintained during winter.

What to do

Hiking nearby trails: At Stony Brook State Park Campground, visitors can access multiple trail difficulty levels within walking distance of campsites. "The gorge trail is very busy but you still can enjoy the beautiful waterfalls along with the gorge formation. We also did the east trail that goes up to the top of the gorge and is also a little further into the woods. It was much quieter up there," notes Verity S.

Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer lake and stream fishing within their boundaries. At Palmers Pond State Forest, campers can fish directly from shore. A recent visitor observed, "I was able to set up next to the water with no problem. Definitely will be back," according to Marjoe M.

Wildlife observation: Morning and evening hours provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper at Palmers Pond shared, "Lots of beavers to watch throughout the day," highlighting the active wildlife presence around the water features.

What campers like

Water access: Creek-side camping at Sugar Creek Glen Campground allows campers to enjoy moving water. Andy B. writes, "Tent sites along a confluence of creeks; ankle deep clear water. Amazing miles of upstream hiking, water holes, rope swings, etc. Perfect for little kids and adults."

Secluded options: Several campgrounds offer more isolated sites for those seeking quiet. At Evergreen Trails Campground, "If you are looking for a deep woods experience... this is it! The sites are very secluded though and if you want some peace get one of the sites in the woods and have some time to yourself!" says Megan T.

Flat terrain: Most camping areas near Alfred feature level ground suitable for tents and small trailers. Caitlyn R. notes about Palmers Pond, "The written directions from other reviews were easy to follow. The road was gravel but pretty easy to drive. I found one of the first spots and was very comfortable."

What you should know

Navigation challenges: Many campgrounds near Alfred have access issues with GPS directions. For Palmers Pond, Lizzy K. advises, "Google maps directed us to a dead end, go in through the north entrance and you'll be good!" Multiple reviewers emphasize using written directions rather than GPS.

Weather variability: The region's higher elevation creates unpredictable weather patterns, particularly in spring and fall. Temperature drops of 30+ degrees can occur overnight.

Water levels: Stream and pond conditions fluctuate seasonally. At Kanakadea Park - Almond Lake, Stuart notes, "Electric only, so be prepared to transport water from available spigots. Lots of things to do from paddling and fishing to hiking trails or learning about the dam."

Tips for camping with families

Creek play areas: Families particularly enjoy camping areas with safe water access. At Sugar Creek Glen Campground, Cassondra P. shares, "We loved sugar creek glen! There is a beautiful waterfall and creek in the middle of the campground. We were able to hike and climb up to more falls and swimming holes when the creek level came down one day."

Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer structured play areas for children. "There is a beautiful playground and Gaga ball pit," adds Cassondra about Sugar Creek Glen's family amenities.

Swimming options: For families seeking swimming opportunities, Trout Run Camp Resort provides dedicated water features. Sydney W. notes, "Lots of things to do for young ones; heated pool, splash pad, pickleball court, basketball hoops and Gaga ball court. Opportunity to rent kayaks, bikes and golf carts."

Tips from RVers

Electric service limitations: RVers should note the limited availability of full hookup sites. At Kanakadea Park, Stuart reports, "A little road noise and no water hookups," highlighting the need to bring sufficient water supplies.

Site selection for size: Larger RVs face challenges at some campgrounds. Sugar Creek Glen receives consistent warnings about site size. One reviewer cautions, "VERY tight to maneuver in and park if your camper is over 30 feet. Be prepared for very low power voltage drops with nothing running in your site."

Generator policies: Most state forest camping prohibits generators, making battery systems essential for extended stays. Private campgrounds have varying policies on generator use and quiet hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meaning of the name Alfred?

Alfred derives from the Old English name 'Ælfræd,' combining the elements 'ælf' (elf) and 'ræd' (counsel), essentially meaning 'elf or magical counsel' or 'wise counselor.' The name gained prominence through Alfred the Great, the 9th-century king known for defending England against Viking invasions and promoting education and literacy. While camping at Palmers Pond State Forest near West Almond, you might appreciate that the name Alfred embodies the natural wisdom and thoughtful leadership associated with navigating the great outdoors - qualities that have kept this noble name relevant throughout the centuries.

Is Alfred a good name for a boy?

Alfred is a classic, strong name for a boy with royal heritage. It has maintained steady popularity throughout history without becoming overused. The name carries connotations of wisdom and leadership, making it an excellent choice for parents seeking a traditional yet distinctive name. While exploring New York's Kanakadea Park near Danville, you might be interested to learn that 'Alfred' is actually connected to the region - the nearby town of Alfred was established in the early 1800s, reflecting the name's enduring appeal in American history.

What camping is available near Alfred, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Alfred, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 163 campgrounds and RV parks near Alfred, NY and 12 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Alfred, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Alfred, NY is Palmers Pond State Forest with a 4.9-star rating from 8 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Alfred, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 free dispersed camping spots near Alfred, NY.

What parks are near Alfred, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Alfred, NY that allow camping, notably Cowanesque Lake and Tioga-Hammond Lakes.