Best Glamping near Penfield, NY

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.

Letchworth is absolutely stunning. The views are beautiful, however the scenic areas are at least a 10 minute drive from the campground. The park is massive.

There is a huge variation in site sizes. We lucked out and got a large site with privacy and an area for the kids to run around, however the site directly across from us was little more than the gravel pad and fire pit. Some of the sites are right on top of each other. Great for group camping, not so much if you want any privacy.

Only two out of the 8 loops (200 and 700 loops) have updated bathrooms (single toilet with handheld showers in half of the bathrooms). The others loops have older facilities with three traditional toilet stalls and two showers.

We loved our site but would’ve preferred to stay in a loop with the updated bath houses as we have younger children and a tent trailer.

All sites have electricity. Some loops are pet friendly, some are pet free. The camp store has a good selection of necessities, albeit expensive for discount brands. The pool is 4-5 miles down the road from the camping area.

Would absolutely camp here again.

Campers exploring the Canandaigua area discover a delightful mix of lakeside retreats, wooded state parks, and family-friendly RV resorts. Just minutes from downtown, Canandaigua City Park Campground offers easy access to local shops and the lakefront beach, making it a convenient base for those who want town amenities within walking distance. A short drive farther out leads to Keuka Lake State Park Campground and the privately owned Canandaigua-Rochester KOA, both of which feature spacious sites, clean facilities, and excellent opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and fishing on the Finger Lakes. For those seeking a quieter experience, numerous backcountry and dispersed sites are tucked into the surrounding National Forest, where campers can truly unplug—though it’s essential to bring all necessary supplies and practice Leave No Trace principles. Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill and the Stay Bristol Woodlands campground blend rustic charm with modern comforts: well-maintained restrooms, picnic shelters, and on-site hiking trails that wind through hardwood forests and offer scenic overlooks, especially stunning during fall foliage season. Travel logistics are a breeze when visitors prearrange an airport shuttle from Rochester or Syracuse airports, ensuring a smooth transition from plane to campsite. And for adventurers mapping out multiple stops across the Finger Lakes or beyond, reliable multi-city transfers provide comfortable, door-to-door rides—no rental car necessary. With its blend of waterfront sites, wooded hideaways, and nearby attractions—wineries, waterfalls, and historic villages—the Canandaigua region truly has something for every type of camper. Whether pitching a tent under the stars or rolling in with an RV, visitors will find endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

My husband and I just got our first camping setup (tent). Letchworth was a wonderful first experience together. The campground can be almost 15 miles from the entrance of the park at points, but we just asked someone at the visitors center and found it easily after that. The restrooms are all well kept regardless of being updated or not and the campground as a whole is very quiet. There are very active raccoons and skunks that have been pretty domesticated, so putting away food is very very important. The skunks also are not easily startled. The only downside was a large group of young guys that were being really loud and obnoxious well into quiet hours our last night, but it was nothing my pair of earplugs couldn’t fix. Also probably wouldn’t have even heard them if we were in a camper rather than a tent. Overall, it was exactly what we wanted and needed. We will absolutely be back!