Camping options near Belfast, New York include locations within the Genesee River Valley and southern Finger Lakes region at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,000 feet. The area experiences cold winters with heavy snowfall and mild summers with average temperatures between 68-78°F during peak camping season. Most campgrounds in this region operate from May through mid-October due to seasonal weather patterns.
What to do
Hiking the gorge trails: Letchworth State Park Campground offers over 66 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging. A visitor noted, "The gorge is spectacular. Try to get to the balloon fest on Memorial Day - and book a flight if you can. Voted Best State Park in the USA."
Fishing in stocked ponds: Arrowhead Campground provides river access with a private boat launch. "Campground is right on the river with a private boat launch," according to one camper who visited multiple times.
Swimming in natural formations: Stony Brook State Park Campground features a unique swimming area carved from the mountain. A visitor mentioned, "This park is beautiful and has a unique swimming area- a 'pool' carved from the mountain! There are lots of paths and picnic areas, as well as beautiful hiking trails and creeks to cool off in."
What campers like
Halloween celebrations: Jellystone Park of Western New York offers special themed weekends for families. A regular visitor commented, "They had amazing fireworks and activities galore for the kids. I would recommend this place to anyone."
Natural swimming options: Stony Brook State Park Campground provides natural water features for cooling off. One reviewer shared, "My favorite part about this park has to be their natural pool. It's beautiful and so refreshing."
Wildlife viewing: Kanakadea Park offers early morning wildlife encounters. A camper mentioned, "Deer by the tent in the morning. Great stopover or base camp, not much to do right on site."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping near Belfast requires advance planning. At Letchworth State Park Campground, a reviewer advised, "This is a popular park so make reservations."
Site selection considerations: Loop locations can significantly impact your experience. A camper noted, "The loops near the Lower Falls are our favorites, but any choice is a good one. All are close to the gorge/river and wooded, and connect to trails directly from your campsite."
Payment methods: Some campgrounds have specific payment requirements. A visitor to Arrowhead Campground pointed out, "NO CREDIT CARDS; cash or check only. It makes it a little clunky to get a reservation because you have to mail in a check."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Triple R Camping Resort offers numerous amenities specifically for children. A family camper shared, "The campground has so many fun things for kids. It is a very clean campground and well maintained."
Water features for kids: Several campgrounds offer splash pads and pools. A parent noted, "Just got the pop up this year and have already done 4 trips this was by far the best. So much for the kids to do with splash pad, pool, playground and Rec room. Worth every penny."
Natural clay activities: Some sites offer unexpected creative opportunities. A family visitor to Stony Brook mentioned, "There is natural clay which my children used to make clay pots which air dried on the grass by our playground. We picked blueberries off a bush near our campsite to have with our breakfast every morning."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing awareness: Beaver Meadow Family Campground has varied site layouts. An RV camper noted, "Most of the sites with full hook-ups are practically on top of each other. They advertise long walking trails but they are all overgrown and non-existent."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging entrance roads. A visitor to The Ridge Campsite observed, "Driveway getting in and out is a little tight for big units, definitely have to swing wide. Sites are very big and clean has plenty to do with multiple fishing ponds, swimming pool and playgrounds."
Electric-only options: Several campgrounds near Belfast offer limited hookups. A camper at Kanakadea Park advised, "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."
