Letchworth State Park offers cabin and glamping accommodations in western New York, about 26 miles from Perry. The campground features multiple cabin loops with basic to full amenities depending on site selection. The park spans over 14,000 acres along the Genesee River with elevation changes of nearly 600 feet from river to rim. Winter temperatures typically range from 15-30°F, while summer averages 70-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Stony Brook State Park Campground maintains well-established trails with varying difficulties. "The gorge trail is very busy but you still can enjoy the beautiful waterfalls along with the gorge formation. We also did the east trail that goes up to the top of the gorge and is also a little further into the woods. It was much quieter up there and the views looking down from there were breathtaking," notes one visitor.
Swimming in natural settings: Stony Brook State Park Campground features a unique swimming area carved from the mountainside. "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," reports a camper.
Wildlife observation and photography: The diverse terrain around Letchworth provides habitats for white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and numerous bird species. Bring binoculars for better viewing opportunities. "Wandering around the gorge is so beautiful and relaxing the views and sights inside the park are amazing, it's almost like another world at times," shares one photographer who visited the park.
What campers like
Year-round accessibility: Darien Lakes State Park Campground offers extensive hiking trails that remain open during winter months for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. "This park is a nicely kept, clean and quiet gem. I live local to the area and still find a time to setup the tent and enjoy some peace and quiet away from the noise of daily life. There are miles of hiking trails, nice 'lakes' to fish and swim in," writes one regular visitor.
Historical features: The region contains significant geological formations and historical sites. "There is a lot of informative boards, dedicated benches that provide a lot of interesting history and information," notes a visitor to Letchworth State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked ponds and lakes throughout the area provide fishing access for various species. "We had a site that was 'lake view' which was funny because it's a pond. It was stocked so fishing was fun," shares a visitor at Beaver Meadow Family Campground.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book sites well in advance for summer weekends and holidays. "This is a JEWEL. Book early. Bring your hiking shoes & camera," advises a Letchworth visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping accommodations near Perry operate from May through mid-October, with limited winter availability. "We stayed in a few tent sites and all are wooded and pretty private with your standard basic amenities. This is a popular park so make reservations," warns a regular camper.
Site selection: The Ridge Campsite offers spacious sites but access requires careful navigation. "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," explains a recent visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Jellystone Park™ of Western New York provides family-focused programming throughout the season. "There is something for everyone at this campground. They made recent addition as that are awesome. The added a new section of premium sites (pull-thru and back-in), the added a beach to their pond and allow swimming. They have the best fireworks for July 4 and their Halloween weekends are full of fun and fright!" shares one family camper.
Weather preparedness: Summer storms can develop quickly in western New York. Pack extra tarps, rain gear, and clothing layers. "It ended up raining the two nights I stayed so I didn't get any pictures, because we stayed in the tent the whole time. The last day was beautiful and we spent the entire time in their natural pool," recalls one camper.
Kid-friendly activities: Many area campgrounds offer structured activities during peak season. "Quiet relaxing atmosphere, lots of hiking trails and family friendly with parks and a pool for the kids to play," notes a visitor to Letchworth State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Six Flags Darien Lake Campground offers full-service sites near attractions. "This is a large campground. Walking distance to the theme park. Campground fees include admission to the theme park. The sites are very nice and well maintained. There are campers for rent, cabins for rent, tent sites, RV sites and premium RV sites," explains a regular visitor.
Access considerations: Some glamping sites near Perry have narrow entrance roads. "We chose a back-in 50-amp full hook-up site at $42/night. All the utilities were placed appropriately so we didn't need any extensions. The water pressure and electric were good. Most of the roads in the park are paved with the exception of the pull-thru section in the front of the park which is gravel," reports an RVer who stayed at Southwoods RV Resort.
Seasonal availability: Southwoods RV Resort operates from May through October with winter closure. "Southwoods is a beautiful campground and accommodates campers of all ages. 2 well kept pools, playgrounds, laundry facilities, mini golf, soccer, basketball. The employees are so helpful and nice! We enjoyed our stays and will be back," notes a regular visitor.
