Located in western New York, Bowmansville offers access to rural campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The region has a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, making May through October the primary camping season. Most campgrounds near Bowmansville close during winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Visit Darien Lake amusement park: Six Flags Darien Lake Campground provides convenient access to the theme park. "The camp store is well stocked and the staff are nice. Access to the park is very easy. The walk to the concert venue is long, but flat and easy," notes Cory W., who adds that many campers aren't there primarily to camp but to enjoy the park or concerts.
Explore local attractions: Niagara Falls is approximately 20-30 minutes from some campgrounds. "Basic, clean campground about 20 mins from the Falls. Very convenient with nice workers," states Shan Q. about Niagara Falls Campground & Lodging.
Relax by the water: Some campgrounds offer fishing ponds and water features. "The pond was great for the dogs," mentions Bella S. about her stay at Niagara Hartland RV Resort, though she notes it's "a little run down" with many seasonal sites.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention cleanliness as a priority. At Southwoods RV Resort, Sydney W. notes, "Bathrooms were very clean. Quiet campground. Lots of play areas for kids."
Family-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer substantial recreational options. Hope C. describes Southwoods as "a beautiful campground that accommodates campers of all ages. 2 well kept pools, playgrounds, laundry facilities, mini golf, soccer, basketball."
Helpful management: Personal attention from campground owners makes a difference. "Dylan & Tiffany are awesome! They are helpful, caring and so nice!!!" writes one enthusiastic camper about Southwoods. Another visitor, Rich L., shares, "The owner took us around on a golf cart to show us how different some areas are within the campground."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Campground density differs throughout the area. Nancy W. provides details about Skyline RV Resort: "Great campground, a little tight if you like to spread out. The map was not correct and we did not have sewer hook up at the sight."
Seasonal operation: Most RV sites near Bowmansville, New York operate from May through October. Southwoods RV Resort runs from May 1 to October 31, while Skyline RV Resort has a similar season from May 2 to October 13.
Noise factors: Proximity to roads and railroads impacts some campgrounds. At Niagara Falls Campground & Lodging, a tent camper reports, "The noises of the town made it very difficult to sleep in our tent. It's right off the main road and nearby trains blared their horns throughout the night."
Pricing considerations: Rates can be higher during weekends and peak season. At Niagara Falls Campground & Lodging, one camper noted rates of "$76 per night, Friday and Saturdays. $69/night weekdays" for level gravel sites.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Look for campgrounds with multiple activities. At Six Flags Darien Lake Campground, Lionel O. reports, "Every part of the camping experience is treated with attention to detail and great services... Good people, nice natural and spacious sites and fun for the family."
Consider noise levels: Family-friendly doesn't always mean quiet. Laura Nicole A. cautions about Six Flags Darien Lake: "People mostly stay here for one of two reason. Because they don't want to drive home drunk from a concert, or they have 14 loud kids that want to be at the amusement park. Both options come with about 2 hours of sleep."
Check bathroom facilities: With kids, clean bathrooms are essential. Paul G. found that at Skyline RV Resort, "bathrooms were clean, grounds mostly dirt with uneven rock pads."
Tips from RVers
Service availability: Beyond standard hookups, some campgrounds offer additional services. At Gander RV of Buffalo, Rock B. found "everything I needed to complete my list of needs for my trailer. The prices are good compared to other local dealers and the service is excellent."
Site conditions: Many RV sites near Bowmansville feature gravel pads. One camper at Niagara Falls Campground & Lodging described "level gravel sites. Sites are close together, but not busy now, so not a problem."
Technical assistance: Some campgrounds provide maintenance help. At Six Flags Darien Lake, Lionel O. reports, "We needed help with our water heater in our own RV and the camp team sent over a mechanic to sort it out within minutes. Free of charge."