Camping options around Collins Center, New York span across Erie and Cattaraugus counties at elevations ranging from 850 to 1,700 feet above sea level. The region experiences a four-season climate with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winters dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in the area close between late October and early May due to snow accumulation that can reach 150+ inches annually in some locations.
What to do
Fishing at multiple ponds: East Otto State Forest offers primitive camping near fishing spots. "Nice campground, free, fishing, secluded, everyone needs to start picking up their trash though," notes one visitor about the East Otto State Forest.
Creek exploration: Sprague Brook Park features a creek that runs through the grounds. "There is a creek that runs through the state park which was nice for the kids to splash around in. Good for a local weekend get away," according to an Sprague Brook Park camper.
Water activities: Jellystone Park of Western New York offers extensive water recreation options. "Water park, fishing, kayaking, swimming. It has it all. We went on the 4th of July and they had amazing fireworks and activities galore for the kids," shares one visitor.
Hiking trails: Located within 30 minutes of Collins Center, Evangola State Park provides lakeside trails. "This park has beautiful views of the lake and sitting areas to sit on the lake or pathways to stroll along the lake. There is nice trails through the woods and nice camping spots with nice views of sunsets and the water."
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Many campers appreciate the seclusion available at certain sites. "After sleeping in parking lots and rest stops, it is so nice to have a place where you don't fear law enforcement knocking at your car/tent, and it's FREE!" says a camper about East Otto State Forest.
Lake Erie views: Some sites at Evangola State Park offer lake vistas. "You can hear the waves at night," mentions one camper, though they noted "my site did not" have lake views, adding that "there are several places to get water in the camp, so be sure to fill up your tanks before you park."
Free mini-golf: Jellystone Park offers complimentary activities. "Put put was free. So many things to do with the kids. Heated pools. Beach was clean," writes a satisfied visitor to Jellystone Park of Western New York.
Affordable rates: Many campsites offer reasonable pricing for basic accommodations. "We tent camped with no electric. $23 per night. Fishing allowed in the pond. Bathrooms with showers were spotless," reports a Sprague Brook camper.
What you should know
Varying privacy levels: Site isolation differs between campgrounds. "It's mostly seasonal campsites with a lot of folks trekking around on golf carts. The owners, Dan and Flora, were able to put us somewhere that was somewhat secluded with an open field behind us and some trees for shade," writes a visitor to Colden Lakes Resort & Restaurant.
Cleanliness concerns: Some visitors note trash issues at certain campgrounds. "The real drag was the cleanliness of the sites, we arrived on a Thursday and pretty much had our pick of sites out of 15. I think we found the cleanest non occupied one by far, but there were others that it looked like a kegger was hosted there the night before."
Seasonal operations: Most RV parks and campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Skyline RV Resort in Darien Center operates from "May 2 - Oct 13," while Maple Lane RV Park runs from "April 1 to October 31," and Jellystone Park is open "May 3 - Oct 14."
Cell service variability: Connectivity fluctuates throughout the region. "I used the Dyrt provided gps coordinates and was dropped into a residential area. Used the map on the parks website to get back on track and it was really simple. Also, it said there would be verizon cell service, there was absolutely nothin."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Sprague Brook Park provides numerous play areas. "Great place for the kids, playgrounds, hiking and the beautiful creek. We visit at least once a year," mentions a regular visitor to Sprague Brook Park.
Halloween weekends: Special seasonal events are popular at some campgrounds. "They have the best fireworks for July 4 and their Halloween weekends are full of fun and fright!" notes a Jellystone visitor.
Dog-friendly options: Many campgrounds allow pets with restrictions. "We went for a quick weekend trip with 3 people and 4 dogs. What a great spot! We were nice and secluded, which was great for the dogs to run around, be safe, and not bother other campers."
Varying noise levels: Some parks are quieter than others. "The time we spent at Evangola must have been a prime camping time because the campground was quiet busy! Our sites was not very secluded but was spacious."
Tips from RVers
Extension cord availability: Some RV parks offer extra accommodation for parking preferences. "We were able to park deeper off the road due to the kindness of the owners letting us borrow an extension cord," shares a visitor to Colden Lakes Resort & Restaurant.
Site selection for privacy: Finding secluded spots requires advance planning. "We were placed next to the pool, pavilion and bathrooms. Kids playing in and out of bathrooms last night but it was short lived. Behind us was a field and we parked between two trees which was awesome."
Campground layout awareness: Understanding the layout helps with expectations. "This campground has three loops. One has 30 amp power, one has 50 amp power (with a 30 amp outlet on the same pedestal) and the third loop is for tent camping," explains an RVer about Evangola State Park.
Dump station availability: Several campgrounds offer dump stations without full hookups. "There is a dump station. None of the sites are full hook up," notes an RVer, adding "Each site has a picnic table and a grill."
