Allegany State Park forms the centerpiece of RV camping near Salamanca, New York, spanning over 65,000 acres with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,300 feet. The western New York region experiences cold winters with average snowfall exceeding 80 inches annually, while summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F. Most campgrounds in the area operate on gravel pads with varying degrees of shade coverage.
What to do
Fishing access points: Willow Bay Recreation Area offers direct access to the Allegheny Reservoir with rocky beach campsites. "The water is a great amenity and you can rent canoes and kayaks!!" notes camper Claudia L. The New York State line is less than five miles away, providing access to additional fishing spots.
Hiking options: Quaker Area — Allegany State Park maintains well-marked trails with varying difficulty levels. "Great trails a lot of them, we hit 2, we will be back," reports Bobby C., while another camper mentioned, "We only got to do some of the hiking. Very nice."
Educational programs: The park system runs regular nature programs throughout camping season. A visitor to Red House Area — Allegany State Park shared, "They run daily activities you can go to and learn about different things in nature." Most programs are free and appropriate for all ages.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Site selection varies significantly across campgrounds near Salamanca. At High Pines RV Park, one camper noted, "We had a site in the full hookup back in section, they are very nice spacious sites." Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others.
Nearby attractions: Willow Bay Recreation Area provides access to regional highlights. "The park services tent sites, RV sites as well as small cabins with electricity. These sites are less than a mile from the North Country Trail," wrote Bill G., who also recommended "the zippo case museum, absolutely a must."
Digital disconnection: Cell service limitations actually appeal to many visitors. "You'll get a chance to relax as there is no cell service or wifi available," says Amy W. at Willow Bay, while others note Hemlock loop has "literally zero Verizon coverage" though other loops maintain better connectivity.
What you should know
Bathhouse facilities: Bathroom options vary widely across Salamanca area campgrounds. At Willow Bay, a camper reported, "Closer to the boat ramp sites—most of which are tent ready, there are vault toilets," while another noted, "my wife said the showers in the Hemlock loop were VERY nice and clean. We saw the cleaning crew go in there a couple times a day."
Water access considerations: Water limitations affect planning at some campgrounds. According to Tim J., "We ran low on fresh water, so a 75' hose was long enough to reach the fresh water spigot. The other campers used the spigot, but they toted water carriers."
Site leveling challenges: Terrain throughout the region requires preparation. At Campground Adventures, campsites set along Ischua creek offer good fishing and kayaking but may present leveling challenges due to natural slopes toward the water.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation amenities: Jellystone Park™ of Western New York offers extensive child-friendly activities. "It's like a water park, meets campground. Games areas, activities galore," writes Erin H., while Sara H. adds, "Put put was free. So many things to do with the kids. Heated pools. Beach was clean."
Cabin options: Families without camping equipment have multiple accommodation choices. At Red House Area, a visitor noted, "Cabins are pretty large and have some great surrounding areas, like creeks right next to the cabins," with another adding they "range from rustic to downright homey."
Kid-friendly exploration: Natural features throughout the region engage children. "Check out Thunder rocks and climb boulders the size of a house," suggests Jeremy H. regarding features at Red House Area, while others mention catching crayfish as a popular activity.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: RV campers near Salamanca should research specific loops. At High Pines RV Park, Nick O. reported, "Our site only had 30a power. Most seem to be that way. We will go back again but making sure it's not peak summer due to not having 50A."
Seasonal considerations: Maple Lane RV Park in Cuba maintains gravel pads with full hookup capability but only operates from April through October, requiring winter alternative planning.
App-based information resources: Several campgrounds now offer digital tools. One visitor to High Pines noted, "Shout out to Debbie for being highly instrumental in the creation of the High Pines App, which is absolutely amazing and chock full of useful information."
