Letchworth State Park occupies nearly 14,000 acres of western New York land with dramatic topography including the deep gorge carved by the Genesee River. The park sits at approximately 800-1,000 feet elevation with seasonal temperature variations that make late spring through early fall the most popular camping periods. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, and summer highs typically reach the mid-80s.
What to do
Hiking the gorge trails: Visitors can access numerous hiking paths at Letchworth State Park Campground, with trails connecting directly to the gorge. "The campsites are in two main areas of the park and further broken down into many different loops. The loops near the Lower Falls are our favorites, but any choice is a good one. All are close to the gorge/river and wooded, and connect to trails directly from your campsite," notes Harry H.
Swimming at natural pools: Stony Brook State Park Campground offers a unique swimming experience in its natural stone pool. "This park is beautiful and has a unique swimming area- a 'pool' carved from the mountain! There are lots of paths and picnic areas, as well as beautiful hiking trails and creeks to cool off in," explains Kayti D.
Hot air balloon viewing: Schedule your visit during Memorial Day for special events. "Try to get to the balloon fest on Memorial Day - and book a flight if you can," recommends Rebecca E. from Letchworth State Park. Many visitors mark this as a highlight of their camping experience in the area.
What campers like
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked ponds provide fishing options at The Ridge Campsite near Mount Morris. "The Ridge campground is a nice place. Driveway getting in and out is a little tight for big units, definitely have to swing wide. Sites are very big and clean has plenty to do with multiple fishing ponds, swimming pool and playgrounds," states Nick O.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained amenities at Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill. "Great secluded tent camping (recommend numbers 7 and 8), cabins are new and ample beds and space. Camper camping is close to everything, but less privacy," reports Sarah C., adding that the park features "Numerous pavilions that are wonderful for parties or weddings."
Year-round appeal: The region has distinct seasonal attractions. "I love taking visitors here in all seasons but in autumn it is exceptional," writes Amber A. about Letchworth State Park. Different campgrounds offer varying seasonal opening dates, with most glamping facilities closing by mid-October.
What you should know
Site spacing considerations: Privacy levels vary significantly between campgrounds and site types. At Stony Brook, campers note mixed experiences with site layout. One camper advised, "I'm picky when it comes to campsites, but I loved my time at Stony Brook. The hike through the gorge to see all the waterfalls is stunning and can't be passed up. The actual campsite set up is always what gets me, because I prefer to be secluded and remote, which you never get in a state park!"
Road quality issues: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Beaver Meadow Family Campground, visitors mentioned, "Roads are not paved making it difficult for kids riding bikes." This can affect both arrival and internal mobility during your stay.
Weather impacts: Environmental conditions can affect your experience at Kanakadea Park. "We stopped for 2 nights and felt so comfortable we added another 2 nights. Nice lake for kayaking and fishing. The finger lakes trail runs through the campground. Did a 5.5 mile hike up Pennsylvania Hill today. A little road noise and no water hookups," reports Stuart.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple play areas support family camping near Nunda. "Quiet relaxing atmosphere, lots of hiking trails and family friendly with parks and a pool for the kids to play," says Lisa M. about Letchworth State Park Campground.
Entertainment options: For glamping close to Nunda, New York with extensive children's activities, Jellystone Park of Western New York offers dedicated programming. "What are the best things about this National Park is that you feel like you were in a Yogi Bear show although there is still a ton of beautiful nature to enjoy the novelty of Yogi Bear is always around and it's a very enjoyable place to be," mentions Jill R.
Educational elements: Wildlife viewing opportunities abound for children. At Ontario County Park, one visitor noted, "Deer, chipmunks and rabbits will say hi in the early and late hours." The park also features "Large dumpsters near entrance" and "Potable water is present at a small spigot," making family logistics easier.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Some campsites require additional equipment for comfortable setup. At Ontario County Park, Jonathan G. advises, "Only downside is that the RV sites don't have much shade but the tent sites do. Also make sure to bring plenty of leveling blocks as some sites are far from level."
Utility hookup availability: Electric connections vary between campgrounds. The Ridge Campsite provides both 30 and 50 amp service, while some parks offer limited or no hookups. Stuart notes at Kanakadea Park, "A little road noise and no water hookups," so arrive prepared with filled tanks.
Site selection strategy: For RVers seeking more privacy when glamping close to Nunda, specific site recommendations can improve your stay. At Beaver Meadow Family Campground, Jaime D. observes, "Most of the sites with full hook-ups are practically on top of each other," suggesting those seeking more space should request specific areas when making reservations.
