Camping spots near Ripley, New York sit at the southwestern edge of New York state along Lake Erie's shoreline, with elevations ranging from 570 to 1,400 feet. The area receives approximately 65 inches of annual snowfall and features distinct microclimates affected by Lake Erie, creating longer growing seasons than surrounding regions. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while winter temperatures can drop well below freezing.
What to do
Fishing access points: Lake Erie State Park Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities with convenient shoreline access. One camper mentioned, "We saw lots of wildlife (black squirrels, rabbits and birds). The beach was not close to our campsite but I drove there before checking out and walked the dog again. It was a rocky walk along the sand but a beautiful area with a playground."
Disc golf course play: Several campgrounds feature outdoor recreation amenities beyond the typical hiking trails. A visitor to Lake Erie State Park Campground reported, "The campground is FANTASTIC! When you think State Park there is almost always a compromise, but not here. The playgrounds and picnic shelters (multiple of each) are in great condition and the views are EPIC!"
Wine trail exploration: The region offers vineyard visits within easy driving distance. As one camper at Westfield-Lake Erie KOA suggested, "Things to do if you stay a few days - wine trail (Enjoyed Johnson's), beach day. We went to Point Gratiot Park because they have a lifeguard on duty and they allow swimming."
Luensman Overview Park visit: This park provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. A Westfield-Lake Erie KOA visitor recommended it among their list of activities: "Luensman Overview Park, watch sunset on the beach, wine trail, beach day."
What campers like
Private shower facilities: Campers consistently praise the bathroom and shower setups at several campgrounds. At Westfield-Lake Erie KOA, one reviewer noted, "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."
Level, maintained sites: Lampe Marina Campground receives high marks for site quality. A visitor shared, "Very nice level paved spots. It's a small campground but the spots are spacious. Clean shower facilities. There is not a lot of shade at the sites so I would recommend taking a pop up tent if you're going to spend a lot of time outside around the campsite."
Food delivery options: Some campgrounds offer unique conveniences not typically found at camping locations. One camper at Westfield-Lake Erie KOA appreciated, "They offered a snack bar which would deliver your food right to your site - a nice option!" Another visitor mentioned, "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."
Waterfront views: Chautauqua Lake KOA provides premium sites with scenic vistas. A camper described, "We opted for a premium pull-thru site, which included furniture and a concrete patio. This is not our typical type of camping, but I knew that the views would be beautiful, so we splurged."
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Traffic sounds can be noticeable at certain campgrounds. One camper at Westfield-Lake Erie KOA mentioned, "The only thing that might bother some people is the road noise. However we were able to sleep well despite it." Another noted, "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."
Single night booking policies: Some parks have specific reservation requirements. A visitor to Lake Erie State Park Campground shared this tip: "You can book a solo night day of online. Otherwise it's two night minimum. There were plenty of spots available when I stayed on a Wednesday night."
Water hookup locations: Not all sites feature dedicated water connections. One camper noted about Lake Erie State Park, "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."
Site privacy variations: Campgrounds differ in how much space exists between sites. A Camp Chautauqua visitor observed, "Sites were tight. Three bath houses available. Depending on where you're at - it's a very fast run if u need it quickly."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds accommodate pets with dedicated areas. At Westfield-Lake Erie KOA, a camper noted, "There is a dog park if you bring your pups. Overall very nice. I would come back." Another mentioned, "There is also a dog 'park'/fenced area."
Kid-focused facilities: Camp Chautauqua Camping Resort offers numerous family-oriented activities. One visitor described, "Lots to do, fishing, swimming pool, petting zoo, hayrides and friendly staff." Another noted it as "Family friendly, quiet at night."
Recreation options: Multiple campgrounds feature outdoor activities suitable for various age groups. A Chautauqua Lake KOA visitor shared, "Nice large parks, mini-golf, and jump pad. Only complaint I had was the pool was undersized for the number of sites they have."
Site selection strategy: Campground layout affects the family experience. A Lake Erie State Park visitor advised, "Definitely a campground that you want to scope out the sites before choosing. The park was great, the campground was okay."
Tips from RVers
Power cord extension needs: Some sites require additional equipment. A visitor to Westfield-Lake Erie KOA recommended, "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."
Multiple dump stations: Larger campgrounds offer convenient facilities for RV waste disposal. A Lampe Marina Campground visitor noted, "FYI - several dump stations so no waiting!"
Site leveling considerations: Campground terrain varies across the region. One camper mentioned, "We were able to change our site for one that was more level without a problem."
Campground layouts and navigation: Some camping areas have complex arrangements. A visitor to Chautauqua Lake KOA observed, "We arrived right at 5pm, which is when they close up, but Victoria went above & beyond & took us right to our site. Good thing, since we were at the back of a confusing layout."
