Camping sites near Derby, New York span elevations between 570-790 feet along Lake Erie's eastern shoreline. The region experiences warm summers with July temperatures averaging 80°F and mild spring and fall seasons ideal for outdoor activities. Winter camping remains limited with most facilities closing after mid-October due to lake effect snow that accumulates in the area.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Four Mile Creek State Park Campground offers nearby disc golf facilities that complement hiking trails and lake access. "The park has beautiful views of the lake and sitting areas to sit on the lake or pathways to stroll along the lake. There are nice trails through the woods and nice camping spots with views of sunsets and the water," notes Adam R.
Beach swimming: Evangola State Park Campground features a public beach area accessible to all registered campers. "Your payment for your campsite entitles you to admission to the beach, which is a hike or a drive away," explains Kim D. The sandy shoreline provides summer recreation from Memorial Day through Labor Day, though water conditions can vary.
Kayak rentals: HTR Niagara Campground provides boat rental options directly on property. "There's a pretty large pond with a picnic island in the middle and a beach. Nightly hayrides around the grounds, and rentals for various boats available," reports Erin H., highlighting the water recreation options beyond the standard amenities.
What campers like
Varied site privacy levels: Campers appreciate the range of exposure and privacy between loops at Derby-area campgrounds. At Four Mile Creek State Park Campground, "This is a very large and popular campground... There is a mix of shaded and wide open sites. We camped at site 161 which was fairly shaded and had a large open field with a view of Lake Ontario," shares Stacia R.
Bathroom facilities: Many campers note the quality of restroom facilities varies between campground loops. "The bathhouse in the 200 loop with bathrooms and showers are up-to-date and SUPER CLEAN. (Note: No dishwashing station in this loop, so bring your own system," advises Paula at Four Mile Creek State Park.
Lake views: The sunset views over Lake Ontario and Lake Erie draw campers to the shoreline every evening. "The sunset views over the lake each evening were spectacular. Our site actually had a gravel driveway and pad, as did several others, but I noticed that the majority of sites were grass only," notes Jen V. about her Four Mile Creek experience.
What you should know
Limited seasonal operations: Most campgrounds near Derby operate from May through mid-October only. At Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA Holiday, one camper mentioned, "We arrived late and our site info was in the night drop so all good. We timed our visit well, the park was pretty empty in mid-October but the weather was still nice."
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railroad noise disruptions. Six Flags Darien Lake Campground receives mentions of train disturbances, with Donna M. noting: "Was clean and well maintained. There was a train track close to camping."
Hookup variations: Electric service varies across loops within the same campground. At Evangola State Park, "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 Kim D.
Tips for camping with families
Theme park packages: Six Flags Darien Lake Campground offers combination tickets with camping stays. "Campground fees include admission to the theme park. The sites are very nice and well maintained. There are campers for rent, cabins for rent, tent sites, RV sites and premium RV sites," notes Mary H.
Kid-friendly programming: Scheduled activities offer structured entertainment for children. "Jellystone Park has lots to see, great facilities," mentions Kimberly S., while Matthew M. adds, "This place is great for a family. 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."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds maintain nature programs ideal for children. At Darien Lakes State Park Campground, "There are miles of hiking trails, nice 'lakes' to fish and swim in. There is a fairly new Frisbee golf course as well," notes Jeremy H., highlighting the natural attractions suitable for family outings.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal RV setup options: Many campgrounds offer seasonal arrangements for RV camping. At Sleepy Hollow Lake Campground, long-term setups are common: "Place is filled with campers which don't move all summer. There are decks, low fences, and stuff around their campers. Clearly they visit annually for the season," observes Kerrie.
Site selection strategies: RVers recommend specific areas within each park. At Evangola State Park Campground, sites vary significantly: "Each site has a picnic table and a grill. There are two bath houses. The newer one - between loops one and three - also has laundry facilities," notes Kim D.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds offer dump stations rather than full hookups. "None of the sites are full hook up. There are several places to get water in the camp, so be sure to fill up your tanks before you park. There is a dump station," advises Kim D. about Evangola State Park's facilities.
