Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Hilton, NY

We have camped at Letchworth State Park for nearly 30 years. Recent updates to playground equipment and restroom/shower facilities have brought the amenities into the 21st century. The price is reasonable, and the park is a gem. A couple cons to consider: pets only allowed in three loops. Quite often, pet loop reservations are maxed quickly. There is a two dog limit, which excludes many campers. If you are used to private campgrounds, realize that services are limited here. Mediocre camp store and laundry; both get the job done, but leave a lot to be desired.

I went to college right near Letchworth State Park so I spent many wonderful weekends there! There is a reason why they call it the Grand Canyon of the East. Not only can you check out the beautiful waterfalls, but there are also many awesome trails, rivers, and caves to check out. When I would camp, we would rent a camp site with our tent but, you could camp with your RV or even rent a cabin. Ive gone every month of the year, but these pictures were from my birthday in January. Letchworth is one of the best parks in New York state and a definite must see!

My son and I have a new favorite campground.  We absolutely fell in love with this park.  I find it odd that even though I grew up only an hour away, we never camped there.  Big mistake!  There are many trails to hike on and beautiful views of the gorge and river.  You have to drive to many of the places but it's worth it.  There are many souvenir and snack stands as well as a pool (again, you have to drive to them).  The camp store is small but well stocked with a laundry attached. Some loops allow pets and others don't.  If you want to bring your pet, please check to make sure you reserve a pet-friendly loop. Unfortunately for us, it rained the entire time we were there so we never got to walk the trails or use the pool.  Keep an eye out for other activities.  There are balloon rides, craft shows, etc. that happen throughout the summer. With so much to do in the park, you don't really need to leave but nearby is the Arcade and Attica Railroad.  It's a nice little ride through the countryside.  There is also a small dam that you can visit (we missed out this last time).  I highly recommend visiting.

In most states, those without falls like Niagara, this state park would be the pride of the land. With three serious drops in as many miles, the Genesse River winds it’s way through what locals call the “Grand Canyon of the East.” Many states try to make such claims, but this might be the closest any come to actually living up to such. It is stunning! 

Along the river this park gives the motorist the distinct feel that she is on a parkway, not unlike Shenendoah, or Blue Ridge. Every few miles the winding pavement breaks out onto a few of the ridges and valley below, before ducking back into the forest of Western New York.

The campground, which is about 15 miles from the major falls area, offers what many come to expect from state parks. There are a wide variety of campsites, all reservable online, which can accommodate lots of different types of camping, large RV’s, small tents, and everything in between. Most, if not all, campsites offer electrical and water is available close by.

The bathrooms are practically luxurious by most camping standards, with single-use restroom/ showers available at all hours. The camp store offered a few grocery items, along with cold drinks, firewood and ice in addition to laundry facilities. Within a short walk were many hiking trails, an old-school fitness path, and a stellar playground where anyone under 9 years of age should get a great workout. 

But let’s be honest, we’re not coming here for the campground, it’s the rest of the park that makes the drive worth it. So, check it out and get to know this stunning place first hand and be sure to bring a picnic basket.