Campgrounds near Ripley, New York offer diverse camping experiences within the Lake Erie grape region. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F, with cool lake breezes moderating the climate. The area's terrain features rolling hills dotted with vineyards, while campgrounds range from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV facilities along the Lake Erie shoreline.
What to do
Explore Lake Erie shoreline: Lake Erie State Park Campground provides excellent access to shoreline activities. "Short walk from campsite to the lake. Try to see sunset!" says Layla P., who appreciates the well-maintained grounds with breathing room between sites.
Visit local vineyards: The area around Camp Chautauqua is known for wine production. "Southern Tier brewery nearby, two different casinos within 40 minutes, golf course, huge lake and more!" notes JB B. The surrounding countryside features numerous wineries along designated wine trails.
Fishing opportunities: Lampe Marina Campground offers excellent fishing access. "Lake Erie has the best sunsets east of the Mississippi lots of things to do from fishing for walleye or perch or just out on a watercraft," shares Jim L. The campground provides convenient pier access for anglers.
Hayrides and farm activities: Big Oak Hill operates as a working hay farm where campers can experience agricultural activities. "It is a newly created campsite that is located on top of a hill with a big oak tree. The campsite is accessible by drive-in, but you may need a 4-wheel drive vehicle if there has been rain," advises Thomas B.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Westfield-Lake Erie KOA receives consistent praise for its amenities. "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," notes Cyndi B.
Spacious campsites: Chautauqua Lake KOA offers exceptionally roomy sites. According to John P., they provide the "Largest sites I've ever seen! Plenty of space for our 30' TT, truck, and screen house." This extra space allows for comfortable setup without feeling crowded.
Waterfront views: Many campers appreciate the lake views at Lampe Marina Campground. "We came for a quick visit and enjoyed a beautiful sunset and sunrise. Large spaces and easy access to the pier (ramps available for all to enjoy)," shares Joelle V., highlighting the accessible waterfront.
Family-friendly environment: Camp Chautauqua provides numerous activities for children. "Lots to do, fishing, swimming pool, petting zoo, hayrides and friendly staff," reports Candi G., who managed to make it work with "three families on three sites" despite the slightly small sites.
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds near I-90 experience traffic sounds. Samuel C. notes about Westfield-Lake Erie KOA: "This is a well kept campgrounds but very tight sites. Next to interstate so a bit noisy at night."
Varying site privacy: Privacy levels differ significantly between campgrounds. At Lake Erie State Park Campground, Brian P. notes: "The campground was busy, but not over-crowded. The campground itself is well maintained and the shower houses are clean."
Water hookup arrangements: Water access varies by campground. As Brian P. explains 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."
Seasonal camper dynamics: At some locations, permanent campers create a different atmosphere. Nick O. observed at Camp Chautauqua: "The seasonal campers seem to have some sort of entitlement. That is very annoying. Very loud and obnoxious which unfortunately has ruined our stay."
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Chautauqua Lake KOA offers excellent swimming options. Cynthia K. notes: "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."
Beach access planning: For pet friendly camping near Ripley, New York, Lake Erie access points are important. At Lake Erie State Park Campground, Donna A. shares: "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."
Food delivery options: Some campgrounds offer on-site food services. Lynne D. appreciates this at Westfield-Lake Erie KOA: "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."
Bathroom proximity: For families with small children, note bathroom locations. Pete D. observes at Camp Chautauqua: "Three bath houses available. Depending on where you're at - it's a very fast run if u need it quickly."
Tips from RVers
Hookup extensions: Come prepared with extension cords for power connections. Ryan L. advises at Westfield-Lake Erie KOA: "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."
Level site selection: Many campgrounds in the area offer paved, level sites. At Lampe Marina Campground, Hannah S. notes: "Very nice level paved spots. It's a small campground but the spots are spacious. 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."
Dump station availability: Lampe Marina Campground provides excellent sanitation facilities. Joelle V. points out: "FYI - several dump stations so no waiting!" This can save significant time during busy checkout periods when many RVers need to empty tanks.
Parts availability: RVers should note that some campgrounds stock emergency supplies. Ryan L. highlights that at Westfield-Lake Erie KOA: "In a real jam they have a huge store with lots of parts for RV life."
