Camping near Bemus Point, New York offers diverse overnight options within the Allegheny Plateau region, where elevations reach 1,500-2,000 feet throughout surrounding woodlands. Summer temperatures average 70-80°F during peak camping season, with cooler nights down to 50-60°F even in July. Fall brings dramatic temperature drops with first frosts typically arriving by mid-October, making seasonal planning essential for comfort.
What to do
Explore Kinzua Dam Recreation Area: Located 30 minutes from Bemus Point, this area offers mountain hiking opportunities with multiple trailheads. "One hidden gem is a small parking area and trailhead just past the dam on the reservoir side, called Bent Run Waterfalls. A short hike in reveals a set of fairy-garden like waterfalls stepping down the side of a mountain that overlooks the reservoir," notes a visitor to Red Oak Campground.
Visit the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk: About 45 minutes from Bemus Point, this converted railroad bridge provides panoramic views. "The bridge is handicap/stroller accessible, pets are allowed. There is a small indoor museum & gift shop, and a hiking trail along the wreckage," explains a camper from Red Bridge Recreation Area.
Lake activities year-round: Chautauqua Lake offers four-season recreation near most campsites. "We had a nice walk down to the lake itself and we were able to launch our kayaks right from the site," shares a visitor to Dewdrop Recreation Area, demonstrating how some lakeside camping options allow direct water access.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Many campgrounds feature natural separation between sites. "The sites are very spacious and mostly divided with brush. The campground is rather hilly overall," explains a visitor to Red Bridge Recreation Area. This terrain creates natural boundaries between campsites.
Night sky viewing: The rural location means minimal light pollution. "A night sky that you can see the Milky Way and more stars than I remember," notes another Dewdrop visitor, highlighting the exceptional stargazing opportunities in the region.
Wildlife encounters: The area supports diverse forest wildlife. "Wildlife is all around and the area offers a variety of activities within a short drive," mentions a Tracy Ridge Recreation Area camper. Many visitors report seeing deer, wild turkeys, and occasionally bears.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "We stayed here for our first ever camping trip. The facility was clean and up kept nicely," notes a visitor to Chautauqua Lake KOA, which typically operates from early May through mid-October.
Variable facilities: Bathroom and shower quality differs significantly between locations. "Bathroom/shower house are duel toilet/showers. Not my favorite, but we didn't have any trouble getting in," reports one KOA visitor, while primitive campgrounds may only offer vault toilets.
Bear precautions required: Bears are present throughout the region. "I had never thought twice about encountering bears, I even naively left granola bars in my hiking pack in my tent at night. AND I now will not do that," warns a camper who had a bear encounter at their campsite.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer enhanced play facilities. "Fun, family friendly campground. We were in a tent on a electric/water site. Sites were a little small but we made it work with three families on three sites. Lots to do, fishing, swimming pool, petting zoo, hayrides and friendly staff," reports a visitor to Camp Chautauqua Camping Resort.
Consider glamping options for beginners: First-time campers might appreciate comfort upgrades. "Great for kids. My son had the time of his life, bathrooms were accessible for us renters," shares someone who stayed in a rental unit, highlighting how luxury camping near Bemus Point provides an entry point for those new to outdoor experiences.
Check noise policies: Enforcement varies by location. "Quiet hours are not really enforced, and bands of wild and thrilled kids played until all hours of the dark night, illuminated at the playground by a bright street light," notes one Red Oak camper about the family-oriented atmosphere.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Terrain can create challenges for larger rigs. "Sites were tight. Three bath houses available. Depending on where you're at - it's a very fast run if u need it quickly," explains a Camp Chautauqua visitor, highlighting the importance of researching site dimensions before booking.
Limited hookup availability: Many scenic campgrounds have minimal services. "Only 3 electric sites so be prepared to be self contained," advises a Dewdrop camper, underscoring the need for power planning when glamping near Bemus Point in more primitive settings.
Weather considerations: The region experiences variable conditions. "It was unseasonably cold and windy in the evenings for August," mentions a Red Oak visitor, suggesting that RVers should prepare for temperature fluctuations even during summer months.
