Castile camping options span from rustic tent sites to upscale accommodations near the Genesee River. The area sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak season. Winter camping remains limited to specific locations due to annual snowfall averaging 65-70 inches between November and March.
What to do
Hiking trails beyond the famous ones: Letchworth State Park Campground offers more than just the popular gorge trails. "The roads, and trails, and lookout points are all well constructed, and flow well. The scenery is remarkable, and there is a lot of informative boards, dedicated benches that provide a lot of interesting history and information," notes Seth S.
Swimming in natural settings: Stony Brook State Park Campground provides a unique alternative to standard pools. "This park is beautiful and has a unique swimming area- a 'pool' carved from the mountain! There are lots of paths and picnic areas, as well as beautiful hiking trails and creeks to cool off in," explains Kayti D.
Fishing opportunities: The Ridge Campsite features multiple stocked ponds for anglers. "The Ridge campground is a nice place. Driveway getting in and out is a little tight for big units, definitely have to swing wide. Sites are very big and clean has plenty to do with multiple fishing ponds, swimming pool and playgrounds," according to Nick O.
Winter recreation: Darien Lakes State Park Campground maintains accessibility during colder months. "We did some winter camping here. We backpacked into the lean to along the Conservation Trail. It was in good condition and we had a large clearing for activities," reports Leah W.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many glamping sites in Castile, New York offer generous spacing between accommodations. At Beaver Meadow Family Campground, "This was a nice family oriented campground. The grounds are very well kept. Playgrounds were nice for kids," according to Erica L.
Clean facilities: Southwoods RV Resort maintains exceptionally well-kept amenities. "Bathrooms were very clean. Quiet campground. Lots of plays areas for kids. Weekend sites would be pretty tight together if they were fully booked," notes Sydney W.
Natural swimming areas: Beyond the gorge views, visitors appreciate alternative water features. At Stony Brook State Park Campground, "We didn't overnight here. But did go hiking for the day. The gorge trail is very busy but you still can enjoy the beautiful waterfalls along with the gorge formation. We also did the east trail that goes up to the top of the gorge," explains Verity S.
Educational opportunities: The region provides natural learning experiences. "Letchworth State Park is considered the 'Grand Canyon of the East'," states Cindy H., highlighting the geological significance that makes luxury camping in Castile particularly appealing.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most luxury accommodations close during winter. At Darien Lakes State Park Campground, "This campground would be a good alternative to paying the high prices to stay at the theme park down the road," suggests Jeremy H.
Reservation requirements: During peak season (Memorial Day through October), advance booking is essential. "This is a JEWEL. Book early. Bring your hiking shoes & camera. The gorge is spectacular. Try to get to the balloon fest on Memorial Day - and book a flight if you can," advises Rebecca E. about Letchworth State Park Campground.
Wildlife considerations: Some campgrounds have natural wildlife issues to consider. At Stony Brook State Park Campground, "Most of the camp areas washed out from rain with water running through them. Rats and mice all over. As we were walking back from a trail rats were jumping in to the underside of the car," warns Kasey C.
Alternative accommodations: When premium glamping sites are full, consider nearby options. "We spent two nights in June. Campground is large and spacious. Family owned. Large mature trees. Clean facilities. Lots of activities and amenities if you are interested in that," mentions Carol M. about The Ridge Campsite.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule family-friendly events that coincide with park programming. Jellystone Park of Western New York excels at this: "There is something for everyone at this campground. They made recent addition as that are awesome. The added a new section of premium sites (pull-thru and back-in), they added a beach to their pond and allow swimming," shares Amy T.
Playground access: Select sites near recreational areas for convenience. "Quiet relaxing atmosphere, lots of hiking trails and family friendly with parks and a pool for the kids to play," recommends Lisa M. about Letchworth State Park Campground.
Safety considerations: Some natural areas require extra supervision. "We wandered into this campground on our way through to Lake George, and I was genuinely upset that we couldn't stay longer. So many fun amenities. It's like a water park, meets campground. Games areas, activities galore," explains Erin H. about Jellystone Park of Western New York.
Budget planning: Many luxury camping options near Castile have additional activity fees. "Put put was free. So many things to do with the kids. Heated pools. Beach was clean," notes Sara H. about Jellystone Park, indicating which amenities don't require extra payment.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose RV sites based on hookup needs and privacy preferences. At Sleepy Hollow Lake Campground, "Short term site right across from the pond, with a patio and gazebo. Roads paved throughout, great laundry facilities, lots for kids, cabins available," explains David R.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging entry roads. "Kanakadea Park is easy to get to and great sites available," notes Kimberly S., though other reviewers mention "Big open campground with lots of sites both electric and non electric. Many rigs in non electric sites running generators 24 hours. Very noisy."
Hookup availability: Check utility connections before booking. At Southwoods RV Resort, "We chose a back-in 50-amp full hook-up site (M28) at $42/night. All the utilities were placed appropriately so we didn't need any extensions. The water pressure and electric were good," details Nancy W.
Noise factors: Consider location within campgrounds to minimize disruptions. "We stayed at this campground when we went to Niagara falls. It's a small campground but has clean bath houses and a relaxing atmosphere. Not much to do but fish or walk trails but that's how we like it. Nice park to go to after a long day at the falls," shares Dawn T. about Darien Lakes State Park Campground.
