Western New York's lake country offers diverse camping experiences beyond the popular glamping options in Brocton, New York and surrounding areas. The region features mixed hardwood forests at elevations between 600-1,400 feet with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F. Most campgrounds operate from May through October, with some offering year-round cabin accommodations during winter months when temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking at Allegany State Park: The Red House Area at Allegany State Park features extensive hiking trails through dense forests. "This park is a fun place to hike and explore. Check out Thunder rocks and climb boulders the size of a house. The cabins are nice and seem to be well kept and quiet everytime I've stayed in them," notes Jeremy H.
Water recreation at Chapman State Park: Located in nearby Pennsylvania, Chapman State Park provides excellent fishing opportunities. "We fished at the small section opposite the swimming area. We were alone the entire time! This park is well kept and very very clean," reports Caitlin M. The park also features miles of hiking trails directly accessible from the campground.
Stargazing at Chautauqua Lake: The region's limited light pollution creates optimal stargazing conditions. John P. from Chautauqua Lake KOA mentions, "Night sky was perfect for viewing stars!" Several campgrounds offer designated observation areas away from campsite lighting.
What campers like
Spacious campsites at Camp Chautauqua: Visitors appreciate the room to spread out. JB B. notes, "Love this place, first visit, I'm in a tent but on a water and electric hookup site (as requested). Family friendly, quiet at night. Southern Tier brewery nearby, two different casinos within 40 minutes, golf course, huge lake and more!"
Privacy between sites at Tracy Ridge Recreation Area: The wilderness setting provides natural separation. "Sites are all large with privacy between, generally level, partial or full shade. Lots of very tall trees," explains Gary G. The campground maintains a rustic atmosphere with vault toilets and water pumps.
Clean facilities at HTR Niagara Campground: Located on Grand Island, this campground maintains high standards. L W. reports, "The most perfect family campground we've been to. The staff is very nice and they're always outside working and helping. The back sites were perfect and decent sized. They have every amenity you could need and the grounds are pristine."
What you should know
Limited hookups at some parks: Tracy Ridge offers a more primitive experience. Jeff N. advises, "No firewood on site, so bring it with you. Really good, cold water from the well! Little bit of Verizon coverage." Cell reception varies widely throughout the region.
Seasonal facilities at Evangola State Park: Joseph N. offers this practical information: "Pros: good swimming, clean bathrooms, easy access off 90 (convenient). Cons: little to no separation between sites, easy access off 90 (busy)." The park provides electric hookups but no full-service sites.
Varying campsite privacy: Amy G. shares about Evangola: "The facilities in the campground are very good (relatively new bath house with nice clean showers). The campsites are a good size although most have no natural shade or privacy." Consider requesting shaded sites when booking during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused campgrounds: HTR Niagara Campground offers numerous child-friendly amenities. Erin H. details, "There's a pretty large pond with a picnic island in the middle and a beach. Playground, mini golf, weekly free activities ranging from root beer float night to a traveling Birds of Prey show! Nightly Hayrides around the grounds, and rentals for various boats available."
Wildlife education: Several parks offer ranger-led programs during summer months. Kelly B. shares about Allegany State Park: "They run daily activities you can go to and learn about different things in nature."
Tent camping accessibility: For families new to camping, Chapman State Park offers an approachable experience. Spencer S. recounts, "It was my wife's first time tent camping and the cleanliness of the campground really helped her want to camp again. We did a walk to campsite as we wanted a little more privacy, which was nice, we were fairly spread out while only being 150 feet from the showers."
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Red Oak Campground: Tracy S. offers practical advice: "The pulls ins are a bit of a draw on levelness, but none are horribly unlevel. I was in the 'B1' and it's a bit larger than the others as it's on the corner. It had a nicely level spot on a gravel drive for my 21 ft travel trailer."
Winter camping options: Mark S. shares about year-round possibilities at Allegany State Park: "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."
Seasonal availability: Most glamping and luxury camping options in Brocton, New York area operate seasonally. Cynthia K. notes about Chautauqua Lake KOA: "We used the back exit on our way out, which was convenient. At least we didn't have to go back to the front entrance! BTW, Victoria is a treasure! She's friendly & goes above & beyond for customer service."
