Willow Bay Recreation Area

This place was recommended to us and we really did not know what to expect. Our site was right along the water. We have sites 76,77,78. Some sites were better than others. Some pros were water access, fire pits having grates, privacy. Some cons were the bathrooms were stinky porta potty things that never had toilet paper or lights at night and the hike to your car from your site. There is no service there so make sure everyone is on the same page. The camp offers ice and wood for a small fee which was convenient and there were nice bathrooms with showers about a min drive away.

This was our third trip here. One of the best campgrounds in the state, especially in the off season.

Most beautiful and peaceful place to tent camp! Definitely a long drive for us but it was beautiful before we got the snow and even during (what we could see). One thing I didnt like was we have to drive to the hiking trails.

Willow bay campground is run by the National Forest Service. The reservable lots are wide and numerous for a out of the way sight. The campground services tent sites, RV sites as well as small cabins with electricity. There is a central bathhouse near the oak loop. Closer to the boat ramp sites- most of which are tent ready, there are vault toilets. These sites are less than a mile from the North Country Trail. Other, smaller trails are here as well. The New York State lone is less than five miles away- providing access to Allegheny State Park. The closest town of note is Bradford, which is about 18 miles away. It has all you need to get your necessities. The cabins were small- one twin bed and a set of single bunks. You need to bring your own sheets. There is a small heater imbedded in the wall. It keeps things from getting too cold, as it was when I was there. Fire ring and picnic table provided. Charcoal grill as well. The only problem I had was with the wildlife. A mouse or something kep crawling in the space between the roof and ceiling. There is no cel service here, and you shouldn’t need it either. Places to visit are too numerous to mention, but I will give a shout out to the zippo case museum, absolutely a must.

The campgrounds are beautiful and well maintained. They have plenty of options to keep busy and amazing hiking trails nearby.

Surprised! First of all, the Hemlock loop has literally zero Verizon coverage. If you walk up to the entrance of the loop, you’ll get 2 bars. We’re staying at Willow Bay again in a few weeks, but in the Aspen Loop. We already drove by our future campsite and it registered 3 bars. Back to the review. We stayed at Hemlock #56. The fresh water spigot was at the end of our driveway, which is on a slight incline. A couple of extra tongue blocks would’ve been useful since the site slopes in the front and at the back. The site was surrounded by 20-25’ of woods, so a lot of privacy. 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. Electric was 50 & 30A. Nothing disappointing, just very quiet and private. The host had ice and firewood for sale. There were no sewer hookups at the sites, but if need fresh water, fill up at one of the spigots before you park. Also, my wife said the showers in the Hemlock look we’re VERY nice and clean. We saw the cleaning crew go in there a couple times a day to keep it up. The Reservoir is a very short drive away and our walkie talkies reach back to our campsite. Definitely worth a future visit.

We stayed at a site located next to a little creek. The kids enjoyed playing in it. I didn’t see a playground anywhere though. Could have just been the loop we were in. There is access to a boat launch which would be great if you had a boat or kayak. We did not so we were rather bored.

The camp grounds were great. Staff was very helpful and nice. Camp sites were decently spaced out. Fire wood was priced fairly well but they don’t usually deliver($).and they sell worms at the gate along with ice.

The RVs had their own loop and tents and cabins were on the water down a wooded trail.

The reason this was 4/5 is because you have to unload the car then walk everything to the camp. There is no drive up access for tent camping. A wagon is highly encouraged

Additionally, vault toilets on the tent side and plumbing and showers on the RV side. Bathrooms were very clean and didn’t smell, the showers were hot.

I saw some boats anchored at sites which I thought was nice. I also got to peek into a cabin and it was pretty cozy.

It is primitive but you will have close neighbors. Tje water is a great amenity and you can rent canoes and kayaks!!

Gorgeous setting on the edge of the Kinzua Reservoir. The sites are spacious and cabins are also available to rent. Staff are friendly and helpful. You’ll get a chance to relax as there is no cell service or wifi available. the closest town is about 15 miles away so stock up before you get there. Don’t forget your bicycles because the campground and surrounding area is great for riding.