Allegheny State Park dominates the camping scene near Belmont, New York, with over 65,000 acres of forest terrain at elevations between 1,300 and 2,300 feet. Located in the northwestern portion of Allegany County, camping options range from rustic tent sites to cabins and yurt accommodations, with most campgrounds open from May through mid-October. Winter temperatures can drop below 10°F while summer averages 75-80°F.
What to do
Gorge hiking trails: Letchworth State Park Campground offers excellent trail access for all skill levels. "The park itself is fantastic. The gorge is spectacular. Voted Best State Park in the USA," notes Rebecca E. Trails connect directly to campsites, allowing convenient exploration of the renowned gorges.
Natural swimming options: Stony Brook State Park Campground features a unique mountain-carved swimming area. "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," shares Kayti D.
Seasonal celebrations: Jellystone Park of Western New York hosts special holiday events throughout their season. "They have the best fireworks for July 4 and their Halloween weekends are full of fun and fright!" mentions Amy T. The campground organizes trick-or-treating and themed activities during autumn weekends.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Red House Area at Allegany State Park offers more secluded camping. "The trees offer great shade and privacy between most sites. The park itself is fantastic with plenty to see and do," says Nick O. Sites in this area tend to have more natural separation than other sections of the park.
Family-friendly amenities: Triple R Camping Resort provides numerous recreational facilities for children. "The campground has so many fun things for kids with splash pad, pool, playground and Rec room. Worth every penny," explains Joshua G. Their splash pad opened in 2021 as a new attraction.
Creek access: Several campsites at Allegheny River Campground offer direct water access. "Great place very clean with lots to do. Very family friendly and pet friendly too," reports Nick O. The riverside sites allow for easy kayak launching and fishing opportunities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the region require advance booking, especially during peak season. "This is a JEWEL. Book early. Bring your hiking shoes & camera," advises Rebecca E. about Letchworth State Park Campground. Reservations open 9 months in advance for most state parks.
Firewood regulations: Outside firewood is restricted at many parks to prevent pest spread. "Buy firewood outside the park save yourself some cash. Camp wood 32"x60" rack for $15 lasted us 2 days," recommends Bobby C. Allegany State Park sells small bundles for $35 that last approximately one night.
Payment policies: Some smaller campgrounds have limited payment options. Arrowhead Campground accepts "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," explains Ian H. Plan ahead for reservation deposits and final payments.
Tips for camping with families
Yurt options: For families wanting a yurt camping experience near Belmont, New York, Quaker Area at Allegany State Park offers comfortable accommodations. "The rustic cabins offered through most of the Quaker Area are a bargain and never have a problem staying toasty on cold nights with their wood burning stoves," shares Megan P. These structures provide a balance between tent camping and cabin comfort.
Kid-friendly water activities: Stony Brook State Park has shallow water areas perfect for younger children. "Great for bird watching. Particularly if you like Blue Jays. I couldn't get over how many there were!" adds Verity S., noting additional wildlife viewing opportunities for children.
Winter yurt camping: For off-season yurt camping near Belmont, Red House Area stays open year-round. "We have made it an immediate family tradition to stay here for Thanksgiving. This place is great for family camping. It has a nice variety of cabins along several loops. Cabins range from rustic to downright homey," explains Mark S.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Kanakadea Park offers electric hookups but requires planning for water. "We stopped for 2 nights and felt so comfortable we added another 2 nights. Nice lake for kayaking and fishing. A little road noise and no water hookups," advises Stuart. Bring extra water containers for extended stays.
Generator policies: Not all campgrounds allow generator use. "Many rigs in non-electric sites running generators 24 hours. Very noisy," warns Virginia C. Check each park's specific regulations before arrival, as policies vary considerably throughout the region.
Winter access: Most RV campgrounds close mid-October, but Quaker Area maintains some winter-accessible sites. "The rustic cabins offered through most of the Quaker Area are a bargain and never have a problem staying toasty on cold nights with their wood burning stoves," notes Megan P., highlighting accommodations suitable when RV camping isn't available.
