Camping near Amherst, New York primarily centers around the Grand Island area, with several established facilities within a 30-minute drive. The region sits at a relatively flat elevation of 600 feet above sea level, located within the Great Lakes snowbelt that typically receives over 90 inches of snow annually. Most camping options operate seasonally from April through October with gravel pads being common at many locations.
What to do
Zipline adventures: HTR Niagara Campground offers various activities including ziplines for different age groups. "They have every amenity you could need and the grounds are pristine. Our favorites were the 3 pools and brand new playground," shares one visitor. Another adds, "Adult and kid zip lines. The bathrooms were seriously nicer than most home bathrooms."
Fishing opportunities: Four Mile Creek State Park Campground provides access to fishing areas along Lake Ontario. "Nice sites, secluded from neighbors. Nice trails to hike," notes one camper. The park offers scenic waterfront views with "beautiful sunsets you'll catch on Lake Ontario are some of the best you'll see," according to another visitor.
Tour booking services: Several campgrounds offer convenient tour arrangements. At Branches of Niagara Campground, "We were able to book a tour to Niagra Falls through the campground and it picked us up at the campground." This eliminates transportation concerns when visiting the falls.
What campers like
Easy access to Niagara Falls: The Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA Holiday provides strategic location benefits. "Nice campground with many amenities. You can schedule tours of the falls in the office. Tour bus stops at office," reports one camper. Another mentions it has "Easy access to local attractions, including Niagara Falls."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good sanitation standards. "The bathhouse and laundry are old but clean. The staff were very friendly and helpful," notes a visitor to Cinderella Motel & Campsite. At Four Mile Creek, "Bath houses were clean and had laundry facilities."
Seasonal perks: Camping during shoulder seasons offers unique advantages. "We timed our visit well the park was pretty empty in mid-October but the weather was still nice," shares a KOA visitor. Many campgrounds remain open through late October with fewer crowds.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds feature tighter arrangements than others. At Cinderella Motel & Campsite, "This campground is very basic with very close campsites." Similarly, at Niagara Falls North/Lewiston KOA, "The campground is very small. It makes for challenging entry and exit for Class A, especially if towing."
Price differences are substantial: Campground rates reflect amenity levels and proximity to attractions. "KOA and Branches CGs are nicer but they are also triple the price which for us did not seem worth it," notes one budget-conscious camper comparing with Cinderella Campsite.
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation. At AA Royal Motel & Campground, proximity to roads creates ambient noise. Six Flags Darien Lake campers report, "There was a train track close to camping," which affects light sleepers.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Sleepy Hollow Lake Campground offers multiple water recreation choices. "They have a huge lake to swim in, a salt water pool, fitness center, well stocked store, small restaurant with finger foods," notes one visitor. The campground also provides numerous family activities.
Entertainment amenities: Several campgrounds offer recreational facilities beyond swimming. The Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA includes "2 swimming pools, playgrounds, fishing ponds, jump pad" according to reviews, making it suitable for family stays.
Site selection strategy: At Four Mile Creek State Park, families can choose their preferred camping environment. "Camping with kids and enjoy interacting with other camping families? Then the 100 loop with large playground is for you," suggests a visitor. Different loops offer varying levels of privacy and social atmosphere.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Site conditions vary across campgrounds. At Six Flags Darien Lake Campground, sites are described as "clean well spaced sites" with good access for larger vehicles. However, at Niagara Falls North/Lewiston KOA, "Many are not very level. All gravel sites."
Hookup reliability: Full-service sites require careful verification. One RVer at Sleepy Hollow Lake Campground reported, "We had a lake front spot but our electricity didn't work. When I called they said someone would come check it 'later'. We didn't have power for our short visit." Always test connections upon arrival.
Traffic considerations: Some campgrounds present navigation challenges. "If you are coming in from the southern side, DO NOT GO THROUGH DOWNTOWN BUFFALO like we did! PAY THE TOLLS!" warns a KOA visitor. Planning arrival routes carefully saves time and frustration.
