Niagara County offers camping options within 15-20 minutes of Niagara Falls and along Lake Ontario shorelines. Campgrounds in this region provide direct access to natural attractions including fishing ponds, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints. Most campgrounds near Grand Island operate seasonally from May through October, though exact opening dates vary by location.
What to do
Water activities on site: HTR Niagara Campground features multiple water recreation options beyond swimming pools. "Located a short drive to the Falls, on the 'less busy side,' to boot! There's a pretty large pond with a picnic island in the middle and a beach," writes camper Erin H. The campground offers boat rentals for exploring their pond areas.
Visit both sides of Niagara Falls: Plan excursions to American and Canadian sides of the Falls from your campsite. Many campgrounds offer shuttle services. According to a camper at Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA Holiday, "You can schedule tours of the falls in the office. Tour bus stops at office. Restaurants nearby. Note: if you are coming in from the southern side, DO NOT GO THROUGH DOWNTOWN BUFFALO like we did! PAY THE TOLLS!"
Lake Ontario sunset watching: Several campgrounds offer direct access to Lake Ontario viewpoints. "The sunset views over the lake each evening were spectacular," notes a reviewer at Four Mile Creek State Park. Another camper adds, "You can even see the Toronto skyline from the shore" when staying at lakefront properties.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Four Mile Creek State Park Campground offers sites with lake views and natural separation. "We camped at site 161 which was fairly shaded and had a large open field with a view of Lake Ontario," writes Stacia R. Many sites feature mature trees providing shade during summer months.
Free parking for Niagara Falls: Staying at New York state park campgrounds includes valuable parking benefits. "Free parking included for Niagra Falls was great!" reports Nathan E. Another camper confirms: "One perk we were not aware of was free parking at one of the three New York park parking lots with our campground pass."
Children's activities: Family-friendly amenities make glamping close to Grand Island, New York appealing with children. At Sleepy Hollow Lake Campground, campers appreciate the range of options: "Plenty of activities around the campground. Golf cart rentals available," notes Sydney W. Another visitor reports, "Lots of activities available for both kids and adults. Cozy sites."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate from May through October with limited availability outside this window. Peak season runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day with reduced services in shoulder seasons.
Mosquito preparation: Pack insect repellent, especially for lakeside locations. One camper at Niagara Falls North/Lewiston KOA noted: "The only issues we had were the absurd amount of mosquitoes literally all day long. They were relentless!"
Reservation timing: Book sites with lake views 3-6 months in advance, especially for summer weekends. A Four Mile Creek visitor advises: "The campground is very large and was very busy the weekend we were there. There is a mix of shaded and wide open sites."
Power limitations: Some sites experience voltage fluctuations during peak usage periods. A camper at Niagara County Camping Resort reported: "Our problem was that the low voltage power would trip our EMS. Power went to as low as 109 volts that I saw."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple pool options: Niagaras Lazy Lakes Camping Resort offers family-friendly water activities beyond standard pools. "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," writes Stephanie B.
Nature program access: State parks provide ranger-led programs during summer months. "Darien Lakes State Park has miles of hiking trails, nice 'lakes' to fish and swim in. There is a fairly new Frisbee golf course as well," notes Jeremy H.
Theme park proximity: Consider combining glamping with amusement parks for family trips. "Branches has a lot to offer on site and near by. The pool and lazy river are beautiful, the zip line is awesome and they have great sites," reports Amy T. about HTR Niagara Campground.
Safety considerations: Choose campgrounds with dedicated family areas. "Very safe, spaces were a bit small for a tent site. Great amenities pool/showers/games for kids. Very safe feeling and friendly staff," notes a KOA visitor.
Tips from RVers
Electric reliability varies: Check voltage before setting up sensitive electronics. "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," writes Thomas S.
Site surface considerations: Different campgrounds offer varied parking surfaces. "Sites are easy access, rock bed for the sites, you are escorted to site. Easy access to local attractions, including Niagara Falls," notes Kirk S. at the KOA.
Maneuverability factors: Darien Lakes State Park Campground offers well-spaced sites with good access. "All the sites were roomy. Some are shady. This campground was easy to maneuver our large 5th wheel around," reports a camper.
Utility placement: Some sites require longer hoses or cords for hookups. Consider bringing extension equipment for water and electric connections to ensure proper setup regardless of utility location.
