Best Campgrounds near Fillmore, NY
Camping near Fillmore, New York is situated in the scenic western region of New York State, with access to several established campgrounds and state parks within a short drive. Letchworth State Park, often called the "Grand Canyon of the East," dominates the local camping landscape with its dramatic gorge carved by the Genesee River. The area includes a mix of state-operated campgrounds, private RV parks, and family campgrounds that accommodate tent camping, RVs, and cabin rentals. Other notable options include Stony Brook State Park Campground, located about 20 miles east of Fillmore, and Houghton/Letchworth KOA, which provides a convenient base for exploring the region. Palmers Pond State Forest offers free dispersed camping for those seeking a more primitive experience in a natural setting.
Most campgrounds in the Fillmore area operate seasonally from May through mid-October, closing during the winter months due to harsh weather conditions. Letchworth State Park's campground is open from May 6 to October 16, while nearby Evergreen Trails Campground operates from May 1 to October 31. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during summer weekends and fall foliage season when the parks experience peak visitation. Cell service can be spotty throughout the region, particularly in the deeper sections of the gorges and remote camping areas. Fire regulations are strictly enforced, with firewood available for purchase at most established campgrounds to prevent the spread of invasive species.
The camping experiences around Fillmore vary widely in terms of amenities and natural features. State park campgrounds like Letchworth offer electrical hookups with water spigots positioned throughout camping loops, while private campgrounds typically provide full hookups for RVs. According to reviews, Letchworth State Park's campground is organized into eight loops with 35-50 sites per loop, creating a more intimate feeling despite its large size. One visitor noted, "The sites on the outside of the loops were larger and more private; most were pie-shaped and had many trees that provided ample separation." Family-friendly amenities are common at established campgrounds, including playgrounds, hiking trails, and camp stores. Stony Brook State Park is particularly noted for its gorge trail with accessible waterfalls and natural swimming areas during summer months.