Lake Erie's shoreline near Irving, New York sits at approximately 570 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate featuring four distinct seasons. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with July and August bringing average temperatures in the 70s°F. Most state parks in this region close their camping facilities by mid-October due to western New York's unpredictable fall weather patterns.
What to do
Lake activities at Evangola State Park: Located directly on Lake Erie, the park offers fishing spots and a natural sand beach. According to one visitor, "The park has beautiful views of the lake and sitting areas to sit on the lake or pathways to stroll along the lake. There are nice trails through the woods and nice camping spots with views of sunsets and the water" (Adam R., Evangola State Park Campground).
Outdoor recreation at Four Mile Creek: This state park provides hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and scenic views of Lake Ontario. "The lake was nice, but wear water shoes, as the rocks stick up and are sharp in spots," notes Trina W. The park is situated about 5 minutes from Fort Niagara and 15-20 minutes from Niagara Falls, making it an excellent base camp for regional exploration.
Zipline adventures at HTR Niagara: Beyond standard camping amenities, this facility offers both adult and kid ziplines for adventurous visitors. As one camper explained, "There's a pretty large pond with a picnic island in the middle and a beach. Playground, mini golf, weekly free activities ranging from root beer float night to a traveling Birds of Prey show! Nightly Hayrides around the grounds, and rentals for various boats available" (Erin H., HTR Niagara Campground).
Stargazing from premium sites: Some campgrounds feature designated areas for night sky viewing. "Night sky was perfect for viewing stars!" reports John P. from Chautauqua Lake KOA, highlighting the region's relatively low light pollution compared to nearby urban centers.
What campers like
Lakeside sunsets: Many campsites offer prime viewing spots for evening colors over Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. A visitor to Four Mile Creek noted, "Our site was large enough, but there was no privacy. The lake was nice... The sunset views over the lake each evening were spectacular" (Trina W., Four Mile Creek State Park Campground).
Clean facilities: Campground bathhouses throughout the region are regularly maintained. According to one camper at Darien Lakes State Park, the park features "clean bath houses and a relaxing atmosphere. Not much to do but fish or walk trails but that's how we like it. Nice park to go to after a long day at the falls. Just relax by the fire" (Dawn T.).
Spacious premium sites: Some campgrounds offer larger sites with added amenities. At Chautauqua Lake KOA, a visitor noted, "We opted for a premium pull-thru site, which included furniture and a concrete patio. Our site was large and simple, but just what we had wanted" (Cassandra C.). Another camper mentioned, "The sites are HUGE, plenty of space for our 30' TT, truck, and screen house."
Variety of accommodations: From basic tent sites to full-service cabins and glamping options, the region offers multiple ways to stay. "The park has all that you can think of from pools to mini golf to a general store. It is well maintained and kept clean at all times. You can't go wrong staying here camping or renting a cabin," shares Adam R. about HTR Niagara.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds operate from May through mid-October. Darien Lakes State Park runs from "May 6 to October 16," while Evangola State Park operates from "April 29 to October 9," so verify opening dates before planning a spring or fall trip.
Reservation requirements: Advanced booking is essential, especially for premium glamping sites and cabins. At Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA Holiday, campers benefit from "easy access to site and local attractions" with their reservation system. One visitor noted, "Sites are easy access, rock bed for the sites, you are escorted to site. Easy access to local attractions, including Niagara Falls" (Kirk S.).
Privacy varies: Site seclusion differs significantly between campgrounds and specific locations within each park. A camper at Evangola State Park commented, "Our sites was not very secluded but was spacious. The facilities were quite clean but a bit of a walk from our site. It was very cool that you could hear the waves at night" (Sara S.).
Bathroom facilities: Quality can vary between loops and campgrounds. One visitor noted, "The closest bath house to our site was unfortunately the most dated and dirty of them. The showers were pretty gross, and the bathroom stalls were so-so."
Tips for camping with families
Activities for all ages: HTR Niagara offers extensive family-oriented amenities. One camper shared, "This was the most perfect family campground we've been to. They have every amenity you could need and the grounds are pristine. 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" (L W.).
Playground options: Most state parks include play areas, but sizes and conditions vary. At Allegany State Park - Red House Area, families appreciate 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" (Ashley V.).
Weekend noise levels: Some campgrounds become busier and louder on weekends. A visitor observed, "This seemed like a 'party park' with music playing and people being loud after quiet hours." Another noted, "We were here on a weekday, told weekends are busy."
Water safety considerations: Beach areas may have natural hazards. "The lake was nice, but wear water shoes, as the rocks stick up and are sharp in spots," advises one camper about Four Mile Creek.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric sites are common, but full hookups are limited. At Evangola State Park, "There are several places to get water in the camp, so be sure to fill up your tanks before you park. There is a dump station. None of the sites are full hook up" (Kim D.).
Site sizing and access: Most parks can accommodate larger RVs but specific loops may be more suitable. As noted by one RVer, "This campground has three loops. One has 30 amp power, one has 50 amp power (with a 30 amp outlet on the same pedestal) and the third loop is for tent camping."
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have confusing layouts. At Chautauqua Lake KOA, one RVer reported, "We arrived right at 5pm, which is when they close up, but Victoria went above & beyond & took us right to our site. Good thing, since we were at the back of a confusing layout" (Cynthia K.).
Pull-through availability: Premium sites often offer easier access. "We had a pull through on Chestnut Drive. Y1," notes an RVer, adding that "We used the back exit on our way out, which was convenient. At least we didn't have to go back to the front entrance!"
