Tent and RV camping near Limestone, New York offers access to the northern reaches of the Allegheny National Forest, where elevations range from 1,300 to 2,300 feet. The region receives approximately 42 inches of precipitation annually, creating lush forest conditions. Campers find a mix of state park facilities and privately-owned campgrounds within a 30-mile radius of Limestone.
What to do
Hiking on marked trails: The North Country Trail passes near Willow Bay Recreation Area, offering extensive hiking opportunities. "These sites are less than a mile from the North Country Trail. Other, smaller trails are here as well," notes Bill G., who appreciated the quiet setting.
Reservoir activities: Kinzua Reservoir provides water recreation options within minutes of campgrounds. "The Reservoir is a very short drive away and our walkie talkies reach back to our campsite," shares Tim J. about Willow Bay, making it convenient for groups to split up.
Seasonal exploration: Allegany State Park's Red House Area offers year-round activities. "We have made it an immediate family tradition to stay here for Thanksgiving," writes Mark S., highlighting the park's all-season appeal.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At High Pines RV Park, campers appreciate the generous space. "We had a site in the full hookup back in section, they are very nice spacious sites," reports Ryan P., contrasting with some tighter campgrounds in the area.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high on camper priorities. "My wife said the showers in the Hemlock look were VERY nice and clean. We saw the cleaning crew go in there a couple times a day to keep it up," mentions Tim J. about Willow Bay.
Convenient location: Maple Lane RV Park offers strategic positioning. "Very convenient to I-86 and also town of Cuba. Went into town on Sunday for a market street festival which was small given COVID guidelines but nice," notes Jan F., highlighting accessibility to local events.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited connectivity. "The Hemlock loop has literally zero Verizon coverage. If you walk up to the entrance of the loop, you'll get 2 bars," explains Tim J. about Willow Bay, though he found better service in other areas of the park.
Water access considerations: At Twin Lakes Recreation Area, water systems have faced challenges. "The water was extremely low when we visited (labor day weekend 2022) so the pond there was pretty mucky. I think it's probably lovely when rainfall is more normal," reports Megan V.
Reservation essentials: Some parks fill quickly in peak seasons. "Very nice owners were able to get us in even though we didn't have a reservation," shares Ryan P. about High Pines RV Park, though this experience isn't guaranteed during busy periods.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Campground Adventures offers creek access for young adventurers. "It sets along the Ischua creek which has good fishing and kayaking," explains Mike K., providing natural entertainment for children.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include dedicated play areas. "There is a nice big playground. Spot to grab some ice cream/snack," mentions Verity S. about Allegany State Park's Quaker Area, making it appealing for families with young children.
Proximity considerations: Sites vary in bathroom accessibility. "We were not far from the bathrooms. But this area, all of the camp sites are right on top of each other. It was great for the kids because they were able to find instant friends and ride their bikes around," notes Verity S. about site selection at Allegany State Park.
Tips from RVers
Electric service options: At High Pines RV Park, electrical capacity varies by section. "Our site only had 30a power. Most seem to be that way. Looks like some updates are on the way. The price was great. We will go back again but making sure it's not peak summer due to not having 50A," advises Nick O., highlighting the importance of checking electrical specifications when booking.
Site leveling requirements: Terrain varies significantly at area campgrounds. "A couple of extra tongue blocks would've been useful since the site slopes in the front and at the back," shares Tim J. about his Willow Bay experience, suggesting RVers pack additional leveling equipment.
Water connection planning: Some sites require extended hoses. "We ran low on fresh water, so a 75' hose was long enough to reach the fresh water spigot," notes Tim J., recommending RVers bring longer-than-standard water hoses when camping in the Limestone area.
