Dispersed camping opportunities exist within the Panama, New York region, primarily in the North Harmony State Forest where primitive camping is permitted. This rural area sits in the western portion of New York state, roughly 10 miles east of Lake Erie at approximately 1,500 feet elevation. The region experiences cold winters with significant snowfall and mild summers, with camping season typically running from May through October.
What to do
Kayaking at Buckaloons: Located along the Allegheny River, Buckaloons offers water recreation opportunities with convenient river access. "We decided to launch our kayaks shortly upriver in Warren, PA. Buckaloons turned out to be the perfect mid point for us to get off of the river and camp for the night," notes Morgan S.
Sunset viewing at Lake Erie: The western shoreline provides excellent sunset viewing opportunities. "Try to see sunset!" recommends Layla P. at Lake Erie State Park Campground, where a short walk from campsites leads to panoramic lake views.
Stargazing from campsites: Clear rural skies make for excellent nighttime viewing away from urban light pollution. "Night sky was perfect for viewing stars!" writes John P. about Chautauqua Lake KOA, mentioning the expansive sites provide good visibility.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms and showers here are by far the cleanest and best we have seen yet at any campground. Individual locking shower rooms large enough for the whole family if needed, complete with nicely tiled shower, sink, toilet, outlets, even a baby changing table," reports Cyndi B. at Westfield-Lake Erie KOA.
Spacious campsites: Larger-than-average sites provide camping comfort. "The sites are HUGE, plenty of space for our 30' TT, truck, and screen house," shares John P. about Chautauqua Lake KOA.
Quick food options: Some campgrounds offer convenient food delivery. "There aren't any restaurants around that deliver, so the KOA has a kitchen that delivers! We had delicious pizza and mozzarella sticks for dinner," writes Lynne D. about Westfield-Lake Erie KOA.
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: Quality can differ between campgrounds and specific sites. "Not sure you can camp overnight. Like the other review, this site has a lot of litter. Clearly people are camping here at times but there are posted signs that say Day Use Only," cautions Denise D. about Warner Road Dispersed Camping.
Weather preparation needed: The region experiences variable weather patterns requiring appropriate gear. "The campground was busy, but not over-crowded. The water hookups are NOT at each site, but there is one CLOSE to each site, so you can run your house over, fill your tank, and disconnect," explains Brian P. from Lake Erie State Park Campground.
Seasonal campers impact: Permanent residents can affect temporary camping experiences. "The seasonal campers seem to have some sort of entitlement. That is very annoying. Very loud and obnoxious which unfortunately has ruined our stay," notes Nick O. about Camp Chautauqua Camping Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple play areas accommodate children of different ages. "There is a lower and upper loop. Make sure you check Recreation.gov to make sure the site you are booking has what you need. We were at the top loop, #39, very close to the bathrooms and entrance," advises Amie M. about Buckaloons.
Kid-friendly campground layouts: Some facilities are designed with children in mind. "If you have kids, most of the activities they would be interested in are at the front entrance. If you don't have a golf cart, you may have to drive to the front for the pool, mini golf, basketball court & jumping pillow," explains Cynthia K. about Chautauqua Lake KOA.
Pet-friendly farm settings: Working farms can provide unique experiences for families with pets. "Big Oak Hill is a working hay farm and provides a great backdrop for your campsite," notes Jake C. about Big Oak Hill, which allows pets but requires owners bring their own water and waste disposal supplies.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure management: Some facilities have unusually high water pressure. "Make sure you have a pressure regulator for the water as they have 100 psi on their water lines," warns Ben S. about Harecreek Campground.
Extension cords recommended: Site layouts sometimes require additional power connections. "We have a very long travel trailer (37.5 feet). I recommend having an extension power cord handy just in case if you are this long. I was able to angle my truck as I needed a few more feet to reach the pedestal," suggests Ryan L. about Westfield-Lake Erie KOA.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds from nearby highways. "I-90 abuts the back of the property so you can hear semi trucks all night long, and there also seemed to be freight trains going through nearby with some regularity," notes Cyndi B. about Westfield-Lake Erie KOA.
