Grand Island, NY sits on the Niagara River between Buffalo and Niagara Falls, with elevations ranging between 590-610 feet above sea level. The island experiences warm summers averaging 80°F and cold winters that drop to 20°F, explaining the seasonal operation of most campgrounds from April through October. Cell service remains consistent throughout camping areas while WiFi quality varies based on campground location and visitor volume.
What to do
Zipline adventures: HTR Niagara Campground offers both adult and kid ziplines along with various water activities. "Love love love this place! We didn't even want to leave it to go to the Falls!" notes Erin H., who appreciated the campground's proximity to Niagara Falls while still offering plenty of on-site recreation.
Fishing opportunities: Four Mile Creek State Park Campground provides fishing access along with hiking trails. Ashley B. shares that the park has "great sites, secluded from neighbors, nice trails to hike" making it ideal for those seeking a balance of water and land-based activities.
Tour scheduling: Most campgrounds offer Niagara Falls tour booking services directly from their offices. "You can schedule tours of the falls in the office. Tour bus stops at office," explains Mike H. from Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA Holiday, highlighting the convenience of not having to arrange transportation separately.
What campers like
Multiple swimming options: Branches of Niagara Campground maintains three pools, including a saltwater pool. L W. reports, "This was the most perfect family campground we've been to... Our favorites were the 3 pools and brand new playground. We have little kids and they were just as entertained as all the big kids."
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the roomier sites at Darien Lakes State Park Campground, which offers more privacy than campgrounds closer to Niagara Falls. Jim S. mentions, "Always clean and well maintained. Also has a nice beach and all newly remodeled bathrooms."
Off-season tranquility: October visitors find significantly less crowding while still enjoying pleasant weather. Thomas S. notes, "We timed our visit well. The park was pretty empty in mid-October but the weather was still nice. Would recommend this KOA for visitors to Niagara."
What you should know
Budget options available: While premium campgrounds near Niagara Falls command higher prices, Cinderella Motel & Campsite offers more affordable rates. Jeff C. explains, "KOA and Branches CGs are nicer but they are also triple the price which for us did not seem worth it... We were here to visit Niagara Falls so location and a basic campground with full hookups was all we were looking for."
Bathroom facilities vary: Campground bathroom quality ranges considerably across Grand Island camping options. Paula from Four Mile Creek State Park Campground reports, "The bathhouse in the 200 loop with bathrooms and showers are up-to-date and SUPER CLEAN," while others note more basic facilities at budget locations.
Traffic considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise due to their proximity to major roads. Shan Q. from Niagara Falls Campground & Lodging advises, "The noises of the town made it very difficult to sleep in our tent. It's right off the main road and nearby trains blared their horns throughout the night. Might not be that bad if you're in a camper."
Tips for camping with families
Activity variety: Niagaras Lazy Lakes Camping Resort offers numerous family-oriented amenities beyond the typical pool. Stephanie B. shares, "There is so much to do at Lazy Lakes! From fishing to pools the kids always had something to do. I enjoyed the wine tasting and flea market."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature updated play areas for children of different ages. Keri from HTR Niagara Campground mentions, "Lots of activities at this park, staff is friendly, clean pools, facilities, zip line, boat rentals, spacious sites, and minutes from the falls!"
Kid-friendly bath facilities: Some campgrounds offer family showering areas to assist parents with young children. L W. notes that HTR Niagara Campground has "Lots of bath house and some with family showering areas," making cleanup easier after a day of activities.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal hookup availability: Most Grand Island campgrounds offer full hookups during their operational season, with some sites featuring 50-amp service. Kirk S. from Niagara Falls North / Lewiston KOA reports, "Internet is really good and has been upgraded recently with 2G and 5G access. Bathrooms are clean and functional."
Site surface variations: RV sites range from gravel to grass depending on the campground. April L. explains that Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA Holiday offers "full hook up back ins and pull through sites" with varying levels of shade and privacy.
Navigation advice: Large RVs should plan routes carefully when approaching from certain directions. Mike H. cautions, "If you are coming in from the southern side, DO NOT GO THROUGH DOWNTOWN BUFFALO like we did! PAY THE TOLLS!" This route advice can save significant time and stress with larger vehicles.
