Campgrounds surrounding Ellicottville, New York offer diverse accommodations within the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains, where elevations reach approximately 2,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with substantial snowfall from November through March averaging 150-200 inches annually. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during daytime hours, dropping to 55-65°F overnight.
What to do
Creek exploration: Allegany State Park's Red House Area offers multiple water activities along its streams. "Great place to explore. Many trails, boating, swimming, camping... just a great place to go," notes a visitor. The park maintains year-round access to electric sites when other regional campgrounds close.
Bouldering opportunities: Natural rock formations provide climbing options for all skill levels. "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," shares a Red House Area visitor. The Thunder Rocks formation stands approximately 30 feet tall with established climbing routes.
Holiday traditions: Camping during off-peak holidays offers a unique experience. At Willow Bay Recreation Area, many campers appreciate the quiet setting. "We stayed at a site located next to a little creek. The kids enjoyed playing in it," notes a reviewer, while another visitor reports, "We have made it an immediate family tradition to stay here for Thanksgiving."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers value separation from neighbors. At High Pines RV Park, guests appreciate the spacious layout. "We had a site in the full hookup back in section, they are very nice spacious sites. The park is close to the Allegheny Reservoir and the Kinzua Bridge," shares one reviewer. The park features 149 sites with various levels of privacy.
Water access: Direct lake or creek frontage ranks highly among camper preferences. "This place was recommended to us and we really did not know what to expect. Our site was right along the water," explains a Willow Bay visitor. The Allegheny Reservoir offers 91 miles of shoreline with multiple access points.
Cleanliness of facilities: Maple Lane RV Park maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. "We stayed here on 9/19 after spending the day hiking at Letchworth. Campground there was booked, and we preferred not to drive home. Got in around 6pm and got a nice site. Friendly people at check in and our camping neighbors were great," notes a camper. Most parks in the region offer daily cleaning of shower facilities.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Communication options vary significantly throughout the area. "Willow bay campground is run by the National Forest Service. The reservable lots are wide and numerous for a out of the way sight... There is no cel service here, and you shouldn't need it either," explains one visitor. Specific coverage notes include: "First of all, the Hemlock loop has literally zero Verizon coverage. If you walk up to the entrance of the loop, you'll get 2 bars."
Seasonal water restrictions: Water access can change throughout the season. "At the time I went (May, 2018) the lake was reduced to about a third of its water due to maintenance, so the kayaks we brought didn't leave the roof of the car, and there was no swimming allowed," reports a Red House Area camper.
Navigation challenges: Many RV campgrounds near Ellicottville require advance planning. Campground Adventures sits "along the Ischua creek which has good fishing and kayaking," but like many local sites, requires careful navigation on rural roads.
Tips for camping with families
Free activities: Several campgrounds offer complimentary recreation. "Put put was free. So many things to do with the kids. Heated pools. Beach was clean," notes a visitor at Jellystone Park of Western New York. Another adds, "Free putt putt. Clean! So much to do. There is a dog park as well!"
Creek exploration: Children particularly enjoy accessible water features. "We've been coming to this campground since I was a kid, and love the fact that you can have the amenities of home away from home. There is so much to do there including catching crayfish, fishing, going to the amplitheater, hiking, and so much more," shares an Allegany State Park visitor.
Educational programs: Nature programs enhance family camping experiences. "This is an awesome place to camp. New improvements to the park have been made the last few years! They runs daily activities you can go to and learn about different things in nature," explains a Red House Area visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RVers should research specific site characteristics before booking. "High Pines is a nice place. Located right on a main road but road noise really isn't a problem. There no pool but they do have a game room that offers free games for the kids along with a playground and basketball court. They have a nice layout with pretty spacious lots," notes a visitor.
Electric service options: Electric amperage varies between RV campgrounds around Ellicottville. "Our site only had 30a power. Most seem to be that way. Looks like some updates are on the way. The price was great. We will go back again but making sure it's not peak summer due to not having 50A," explains a High Pines visitor.
Leveling requirements: Many sites require additional equipment for proper leveling. "Electric was 50 & 30A. Nothing disappointing, just very quiet and private. The host had ice and firewood for sale. There were no sewer hookups at the sites, but if need fresh water, fill up at one of the spigots before you park," advises a Willow Bay visitor about preparing for sloped sites.
