Camping spots near South Wales, New York range from state parks to family-oriented private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 1,250 feet elevation in the western New York highlands, with campgrounds located in various terrain from rolling hills to river valleys. Most camping facilities in this area remain accessible from mid-April through October, with fall camping temperatures averaging 45-65°F, creating ideal conditions for campfires and hiking.
What to do
Frisbee golf course access: Darien Lakes State Park offers recreational options beyond traditional camping activities. "This park is a nicely kept, clean and quiet gem... There are miles of hiking trails, nice 'lakes' to fish and swim in. There is a fairly new Frisbee golf course as well," notes Jeremy H., who recommends the park as a cost-effective alternative to nearby theme parks.
Winter camping options: Darien Lakes State Park Campground provides year-round recreation opportunities, including winter activities. "We did some winter camping here. We backpacked into the lean to along the Conservation Trail. It was in good condition and we had a large clearing for activities. No issues with animals," shares Leah W., highlighting off-season camping possibilities.
Day trip to Niagara Falls: Some campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring regional attractions. "We stayed at this campground when we went to Niagara falls. It's a small campground but has clean bath houses an a relaxing atmosphere. Not much to do but fish or walk trails but that's how we like it. Nice park to go to after a long day at the falls," reports Dawn T.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Sprague Brook Park receives high marks for cleanliness and upkeep. "I loved everything. The sites are neat. We tent camped with no electric. $23 per night. Fishing allowed in the pond. Bathrooms with showers were spotless. Grass maintained," mentions Marilyn C., though she notes some sites can get muddy.
Immersion in nature: Cherry Hill Campground offers a unique experience despite its proximity to attractions. "One of my favorite places I've ever stayed. Immersed in nature despite being across from 6 flags. Hot showers, clean bathrooms, lovely dishwashing station, and a book where people can write what makes them happy for others to read," shares Jen J., who appreciated the solar-friendly environment for her van.
Family entertainment: Jellystone Park™ of Western New York provides extensive recreational options. "What are the best things about this National Park is that you feel like you were in a Yogi Bear show although there is still a ton of beautiful nature to enjoy the novelty of Yogi Bear is always around," notes Jill R., highlighting the balance of themed entertainment and natural surroundings.
What you should know
Campground noise levels: Six Flags Darien Lake Campground tends to be louder than other area camping options. "I haven't been here in a while but people mostly stay here for one of two reason. Because they don't want to drive home drunk from a concert, or they have 14 loud kids that want to be at the amusement park. Both options come with about 2 hours of sleep," Laura Nicole A. cautions about expectations.
Reservation requirements: Cherry Hill Campground offers a convenient online reservation system, which became particularly important during recent seasons. "As things re-open following the pandemic, I found comfort in the observation that the restrooms were single toilet rather than a large restroom of stalls... that the online reservation process was easily navigable, and rates were fairly priced," Sinclaire B. mentions.
Transportation considerations: Cherry Hill provides shuttle services for concert attendees. "We have stayed at Cherry Hill a couple times, mostly for Darien Lake concerts. It's VERY convenient to get to the convert as the campground offers shuttles before the events. However, getting back across the road to the campground can be challenging," reports Cory W., noting that walking back is prohibited and alternative transport is needed.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sleepy Hollow Lake Campground offers extensive facilities for children. "We had a lot of fun here and there's a lot of activities for kids... They were all over the campground... there was a nest under the playground we did advise management of," notes MacKenzi G., who enjoyed the facilities despite mentioning a bee issue during her visit.
Swimming options: Sprague Brook Park has limited water recreation. "There is a playground for the kiddos and a pond to fish in. No swimming in it though. There is a creek that runs through the state park which was nice for the kids to splash around in," Amanda K. points out, offering important information for families expecting swimming facilities.
Kid-friendly atmosphere: Some campgrounds explicitly cater to children. "Put put was free. So many things to do with the kids. Heated pools. Beach was clean," Sara H. shares about Jellystone Park™ of Western New York, highlighting amenities particularly valued by families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site variations: Beaver Meadow Family Campground offers different site types based on RV needs. "The positives to this campground are that the people running it are all very nice. The store has just about anything and everything you can need or want. Restrooms and showers are kept clean. Negatives are that most of the sites with full hook-ups are practically on top of each other," notes Jaime D.
Seasonal site availability: Many area campgrounds have a mix of temporary and permanent sites. "It's mostly seasonal campsites with a lot of folks trekking around on golf carts. The owners, Dan and Flora, were able to put us somewhere that was somewhat secluded with an open field behind us and some trees for shade. They even let us borrow an extension cord so we could park further off the road," says Nate & His Reina Puertorriqueña H. about Colden Lakes Resort.
RV-friendly terrain: The topography at some campgrounds presents challenges. "We were placed next to the pool, pavilion and bathrooms. Kids playing in and out of bathrooms last night but it was short lived. We were able to park deeper off the road due to the kindness of the owners letting us borrow an extension cord. Behind us was a field and we parked between two trees which was awesome," explains Raquel H., highlighting site placement considerations important to RV campers.
