Allegheny National Forest and Elk State Forest provide extensive camping options near St. Bonaventure, New York. The region sits within the unglaciated Allegheny Plateau with elevations between 1,300 and 2,300 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, while winter conditions often bring snowfall suitable for cross-country skiing on designated trails.
What to do
Trail riding: The equestrian campgrounds near St. Bonaventure, New York connect to miles of forest trails suitable for riders of all skill levels. At Kelly Pines Campground, trails follow the river around the camp. "Trails galore! Mushrooms everywhere! Quiet and no cellular to distract," notes Debra D.
Stargazing: The region contains some of the darkest skies in the eastern United States, perfect for astronomy enthusiasts. Lyman Run State Park Campground is close to Cherry Springs State Park, a certified Dark Sky area. "Cherry Springs is about 8 miles away. We like staying at Lyman Run since Cherry Springs gets filled pretty quickly," says Peggy S.
Fishing: Local lakes and streams offer trout and other species for anglers. "We had a boat that we brought out to go fishing (you can rent a boat, but will cost you). Pretty easy to catch some trout and blue gill," reports Joshua L. about Lyman Run.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer good separation between campsites. At Hearts Content Recreation Area, "sites are not on top of each other. We could barely see our 'neighbors' through the trees," according to Heather M.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained restrooms and common areas. "Bathhouse was very clean. Had a good time fishing at the lake and stopping for ice cream at the beach shop is a must!" shares Michelle L. about Lyman Run State Park.
Natural wildlife encounters: The forested setting provides opportunities to observe deer and other wildlife. "During weekdays the area deer will often approach from the woods behind the campsites to feast on low hanging leaves. We've seen dozens of them who will get within 10-20 yards of you for a snack later into the night," describes Matthew at Hearts Content.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most horse campgrounds near St. Bonaventure have minimal connectivity. "Quiet and no cellular to distract," mentions Debra D. about Kelly Pines. At Hearts Content, campers report "One bar of usable Verizon 4G LTE and T-Mobile 4G LTE suitable for slow web browsing and e-mail, but little else."
Water availability varies: Some campgrounds have potable water while others require you bring your own. At Red House Area — Allegany State Park, drinking water is readily available, while Kelly Pines has "no potable water but there is a river and a non-potable pump."
Firewood regulations: Many areas restrict bringing outside firewood to prevent spread of invasive species. Hearts Content has "so much downed wood behind just about every site that purchasing wood really isn't necessary: you can keep a hot fire going all night, for free, just by cleaning out the underbrush."
Traveler
