Tent camping near Belmont, New York offers various options in New York's Southern Tier region, where elevations range from 1,300-2,000 feet and typical summer temperatures hover between 70-85°F during peak camping season. The area's mixed hardwood forests create natural wind barriers at many primitive sites, while seasonal restrictions typically limit camping to April through October due to heavy winter snowfall.
What to do
Hiking trail access: At Patterson State Park Campground, campers can connect directly to the STS trail system. "If Hiking is your thing, the STS trail system runs right through it," notes reviewer Paula L., who mentions you can even find horse riding sections of the trail.
Stargazing opportunities: The region provides good night sky viewing conditions away from major light pollution. At Patterson State Park, Fernando V. reports, "You can still observe the stars, but difficult for telescopes since trees cover Polaris in most of the sites."
Water recreation: Riverside Park Campground in Wellsville provides river access for campers. Visitor Jesse K. found the experience "exceeded expectations" with well-kept grounds and full hookup sites available for those wanting amenities beyond basic tent camping.
Mountain biking trails: Near Firefly Acres, campers can access trails suitable for both hiking and mountain biking. Jake C. notes it's "a great spot to setup camp with tons of activities nearby including trails for hiking & mountain biking."
What campers like
Quiet environment: Many campers highlight the peaceful atmosphere at smaller campgrounds. At Patterson State Park, Paula L. points out a significant advantage: "At any given time you may have the whole park to yourself."
Clean facilities: Despite rustic amenities, campgrounds maintain good standards. Fernando V. notes about Patterson State Park: "It has a really nice water well with a manual pump. Restroom is the typical hole with no flush, but is very clean."
Natural features: Colton Point State Park Campground offers distinctive natural attractions. Gary O. describes the area as having "Incredible views, nicknamed the Grand Canyons of Pennsylvania" with "Highest trail elevation in PA."
Private camping spots: Some locations provide secluded options. Marisa L. appreciates Colton Point because, "I loved that you can pick your own tucked away spot within the camp area but yet still close enough to other people."
What you should know
Reservation policies: Many primitive campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served systems. Fernando V. mentions Patterson State Park has no reservation system, and sites can fill quickly during peak stargazing seasons.
Bathroom facilities: Expect non-flush toilets at most primitive sites. At Lawrence Recreation Area, facilities are basic but functional, though Rebecca E. still found it "Peaceful. Trees. Nice sites if close."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds have proximity to roads. Fernando V. notes about Patterson State Park, "It is just next to the road, so its noisy at night when cars pass."
Waste management: Several campgrounds implement carry-in, carry-out policies. Paula L. explains Patterson's approach: "It has a take it with you waste management plan that really helped us all think differently about packaging and some of the choices we make."
Tips for camping with families
Space for activities: Smaller campgrounds can provide ample play areas. Paula L. recommends Patterson State Park specifically because "If you are camping with children this can be a plus! They will have plenty of room to play."
Activity options: Dream Lake Campground caters to families with scheduled events. Robyn M. confirms it's "very family friendly lots of activities been going here 6 years now and never have had a bad time."
Trail difficulty considerations: When hiking with children, consider trail construction. Emily S. notes that at Colton Point, "The trails aren't built up with steps and the like, but I think the Colton Point Turkey trail is much more manageable even without them."
Weekend programming: Some campgrounds offer structured activities. Nick O. mentions Dream Lake provides "Weekend activities" and notes "Lots to do for kids and adults."
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Bova Cottages — Allegany State Park offers alternatives when tent camping isn't preferred. Danielle S. warns about seasonal conditions affecting accessibility: "After the last bad winter storm we had (2/2018) trees fell all over the park, including on my favorite hiking trails."
Hookup availability: Electric hookups are limited at primitive sites. Dream Lake offers more comprehensive services, with Nick O. noting "clean facilities" complement the hookup options.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant seasonal changes. Harry H. mentions Allegany State Park's cabins are "Open all year" making them suitable for "hiking, snowshoeing, XC skiing, leaf peeping, etc." when tent camping becomes impractical.
Wildlife awareness: Be prepared for local wildlife. Kate W. warns about Allegany State Park: "Do not leave food out. The bears are very ambitious."
