Campsites surrounding Depew, New York offer year-round options with several parks remaining open during winter months when most facilities close. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer high temperatures averaging in the upper 70s°F while winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing. Proximity to Lake Erie creates microclimates that can affect camping conditions, particularly with morning fog in spring and fall.
What to do
Niagara Falls excursions: HTR Niagara Campground serves as a convenient base for exploring Niagara Falls, located just minutes away. "Lots of activities at this park, staff is friendly, clean pools, facilities, zip line, boat rentals, spacious sites, and minutes from the falls!" notes a camper about this Grand Island location.
Hiking and trails: Darien Lakes State Park Campground offers miles of nature trails for various skill levels with a Conservation Trail that connects to regional path systems. One visitor explained, "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."
Lake recreation: Spend time on Lake Ontario at Four Mile Creek State Park Campground where sunsets are a highlight. "The sunset views over the lake each evening were spectacular," shares a reviewer who stayed at an electric site with lake views. The campground offers a unique vantage point where "you can even see the Toronto skyline on a clear day."
What campers like
Multiple swimming options: Sleepy Hollow Lake Campground in Akron impresses visitors with its water amenities. "Short term site right across from the pond, with a patio and gazebo. Roads paved throughout, great laundry facilities, lots for kids, cabins available. clean friendly campground," describes one camper about the well-maintained facilities.
Seasonal activities: Cherry Hill Campground schedules events throughout the camping season including yoga sessions. "One of my favorite places I've ever stayed. Immersed in nature despite being across from 6 flags. Hot showers, clean bathrooms, lovely dishwashing station, and a book where people can write what makes them happy for others to read," shares an enthusiastic visitor.
Theme park proximity: Six Flags Darien Lake Campground combines camping with amusement park access. "This is a large campground. Walking distance to the theme park. Campground fees include admission to the theme park. The sites are very nice and well maintained," explains a camper who appreciates the convenience and value.
What you should know
Winter camping options: While most parks close seasonally, AA Royal Motel & Campground remains open year-round. As one camper noted, "This campground is open year around which is really hard to find in this area. We needed to come here for personal reasons before any other campground was opened."
Site variety and selection: Campgrounds offer significantly different experiences depending on site selection. At Four Mile Creek State Park Campground, "This is a friendly and clean state park campground where you can choose your own environmental experience. Camping with kids and enjoy interacting with other camping families? Then the 100 loop with large playground is for you!"
Weekday vs. weekend atmosphere: Occupancy levels change dramatically between weekdays and weekends at most campgrounds. "We were there in late October and it was partially closed down. Quite pricey. Clean facilities. Somewhat close to interstate noise," reported a camper about staying at Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA Holiday during off-peak times.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused sites: HTR Niagara Campground provides multiple recreational options. "This was the most perfect family campground we've been to. The staff is very nice and they're always outside working and helping. They have every amenity you could need and the grounds are pristine. Our favorites were the 3 pools and brand new playground."
Plan for weather fluctuations: Spring and fall camping requires preparation for temperature swings. A Cherry Hill Campground visitor advised, "I was stuck at the US/Canada border for almost two hours coming from Michigan. Then caught in severe thunderstorms which cause me to get to the camp site at 9:30."
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds near attractions experience higher noise levels. One camper at Six Flags Darien Lake Campground mentioned, "It was good if you're planning to go to a concert or the park. It was loud and not very relaxing."
Tips from RVers
Site selection and access: Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA Holiday offers well-designed RV sites with escorts to help positioning. "Sites are easy access, rock bed for the sites, you are escorted to site. Easy access to local attractions, including Niagara Falls. Multiple things to do around the local community and on the park."
Utility performance: Reliable hookups matter when camping in an RV. At Cinderella Motel & Campsite, "We were in a back in gravel site that backed up to the motel which may not seem that nice but the electric, water and sewer worked perfectly. Our 40 foot MH and Toad fit with room to spare."
Off-season considerations: Several campgrounds have partial services during shoulder seasons. "Sites are full hook up or w/e only. There are pull throughs and back-ins, 30amp and 50amp sites. Your site is assigned once you arrive," explained an AA Royal Motel & Campground visitor who appreciated the flexible options available.
