Warsaw, New York sits at an elevation of approximately 1,700 feet in Wyoming County, surrounded by rolling hills and farmland. The area receives about 38 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forests and waterways ideal for outdoor recreation. Several state parks and private campgrounds near Warsaw offer primitive tent sites alongside luxury glamping accommodations, with most facilities open from May through mid-October.
What to do
Hiking gorge trails: At Letchworth State Park Campground, visitors can explore multiple trail systems that showcase the dramatic landscape. "The park is huge and absolutely gorgeous. You can easily spend a week here and have plenty to do in the park as well as the local towns," notes Amber A. The gorge trails feature stone steps and footbridges crossing streams.
Swimming in natural settings: Natural swimming areas provide alternatives to traditional pools. At Stony Brook State Park Campground, campers enjoy a unique swimming experience. "This park is beautiful and has a unique swimming area- a 'pool' carved from the mountain! There are lots of paths and picnic areas, as well as beautiful hiking trails and creeks to cool off in," shares Kayti D.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer stocked ponds and lake access. "Fishing" is listed as an amenity at Sleepy Hollow Lake Campground, where guests can catch various fish species. The campground provides shoreline access points suitable for anglers of all ages and skill levels.
What campers like
Family-friendly activities: Jellystone Park of Western New York receives high marks for its entertainment options. "This place is great for a family. Water park, fishing, kayaking, swimming. It has it all. We went on the 4th of July and they had amazing fireworks and activities galore for the kids," writes Matthew M.
Diverse camping options: The region offers various accommodation styles beyond standard tent sites. "There are a wide variety of campsites, all reservable online, which can accommodate lots of different types of camping, large RVs, small tents, and everything in between. Most, if not all, campsites offer electrical and water is available close by," explains Shari G. about Letchworth State Park.
Seasonal beauty: Fall foliage creates spectacular viewing opportunities. "I love taking visitors here in all seasons but in autumn it is exceptional," writes Amber A. Many campgrounds remain open through mid-October specifically to accommodate leaf-peepers seeking views of the colorful hillsides.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Book early. Bring your hiking shoes & camera. The gorge is spectacular," advises Rebecca E. at Letchworth State Park Campground. Weekends from June through September typically require reservations made 3-6 months in advance.
Bathroom facilities: Sleepy Hollow Lake Campground maintains clean facilities throughout the property. "Clean bathrooms near the campground store," notes Sydney W. Most campgrounds offer shower buildings with hot water, though availability may vary during off-peak seasons.
Site selection considerations: Campsite privacy varies significantly within each campground. "The campsites are in two main areas of the park and further broken down into many different loops. The loops near the Lower Falls are our favorites, but any choice is a good one. All are close to the gorge/river and wooded, and connect to trails directly from your campsite," shares Harry H.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Southwoods RV Resort offers extensive recreation areas. "Lots of plays areas for kids. Weekend sites would be pretty tight together if they were fully booked," reports Sydney W. The playground equipment includes climbing structures and swings suitable for various age groups.
Water activities: Many campgrounds feature pools or swimming areas. "Put put was free. So many things to do with the kids. Heated pools. Beach was clean," shares Sara H. about Jellystone Park. Swimming areas typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.
Seasonal events: Halloween camping provides special activities at several campgrounds. "Our favorite time of year to visit is around Halloween. They always have great activities and trick or treating with the kids," explains Erica L. about Jellystone Park. These themed weekends typically run from late September through mid-October.
Tips from RVers
Site access: The Ridge Campsite requires careful navigation for larger vehicles. "Driveway getting in and out is a little tight for big units, definitely have to swing wide. Sites are very big and clean," advises Nick O. Most campgrounds accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, though some sites have length restrictions.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites with water, electric and sewer connections are available at most campgrounds. "We chose a back-in 50-amp full hook-up site at $42/night. All the utilities were placed appropriately so we didn't need any extensions. The water pressure and electric were good," reports Nancy W. about Southwoods RV Resort.
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects camping conditions significantly. "Beautiful state park, very lush green from all the rain unfortunately the smoke from the Canadian fires near have made it unhealthy here. Especially strenuous outdoor activities. Bathrooms are clean and great showers in the wooden size of nicely spaced and level," shares Jeff A. about his summer experience at Letchworth State Park.
