Camping on Chautauqua Lake

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Set in western New York and surrounded by several state forests, Chautauqua Lake stretches for 17 miles. A popular lake getaway in the summer, visitors flock here to go swimming, fishing, paddling, and boating. Several lakeside parks and charming towns can be found around the lake, including “home of comedy” Jamestown, Chautauqua, Mayville, and Bemus Point. Also nearby is Lake Erie, one of the great lakes. In winter, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling are popular, along with downhill skiing in nearby ski resorts.

98% (2K) • 2,547 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Chautauqua Lake

Roller-Coaster Road Ranch

1. Roller-Coaster Road Ranch

99%
(75)
Cooperstown, PA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
The Roller-Coaster Road Ranch offers many maintained trails, perfect for hiking. The property is mainly forested, but does contain numerous open spaces perfect for a rustic camping experience. The farm has a few large open fields that are plowed and planted seasonally. Various wildlife populates the area; whitetail deer, turkey, black bear, and bald eagles. A stocked trout stream passes through portions of the property and connects to a larger stream with many options for swimming, wading, and crayfish hunting. The Trout Camp site is located at the confluence of two trout streams at the valley bottom, it is an open wooded area in view of a dirt road. The Main Bridge site is located along a trout stream in the valley, offers the most privacy, and is gated. The Valley View site is located at the top of a hill along side a cornfield, with spacious views, beautiful sunsets, and cell service, but does not offer direct access to the trout streams.
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The Heron Farm & Event Center

2. The Heron Farm & Event Center

97%
(640)
Panama, NY · 45 sites · Tents, RVs
The Heron is an Organic Farm, Event & Wedding Venue, and Campground. A place to connect deeply with nature & art, eat real food and create lasting memories! We are the home of the Great Blue Heron Music Festival and the Green Heron Growers. For more information on our farm, our Farm Store and our Events, visit our website, theheron.org You'll notice a handful of weekends that the campground is closed or would appear fully booked; those may be times that we have ticketed music festivals happening, in which case you can find that information on our main website. Our many camping and lodging options allow families to relax, enjoy nature, and create memories. We have around 100 sites throughout our 300 acres, some woodsy, some with views of the rolling hills and some with electric service. The Heron grounds boast a swimming and fishing pond, and over 4 miles of on-site hiking trails. Located on over 400 acres in beautiful Chautauqua County, NY, we are a working organic farm with a shiitake mushroom yard and on-site farm store. We host weddings, educational workshops, retreats, private events, captivating music festivals, and much more! We offer many different options for camping, from tent sites nestled in the woods to RV sites with electric hook-ups (electric site reservations are to be made on that specific listing and are limited). We allow pets, all dogs must on a leash 6ft or shorter in length and held by an adult, there is a $20/stay pet fee for pets that can be paid prior to arrival. Beach/Swimming Rules: Two adults 18 or over are required to supervise when there are children swimming. (Even if only one child is present.) No swimming outside of the designated/roped swim area. No watercraft allowed anywhere in the pond. Do not use soap in the water, we have showers! No alcohol, no glass or open containers. On-site Phone is for Emergencies only (located in the beach hut to the left of the beach area). Creating a reservation is your agreement with this rule. Local Attractions: Panama Rocks, Chautauqua Institute, Chautauqua Lake Overland Trail (The Westside of Trail) over 35 miles of hiking, Chautauqua Gorge, Audubon Nature Center, Rails to Trails, Ellicottville Brewery, Southern Tier Brewery & Distillery, Lake Erie Wine Trail, and much more! Please contact us with questions and inquiries. Come and share the Magic of The Heron! Welcome Home!
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Cozy Embers Campground & Cabins

3. Cozy Embers Campground & Cabins

100%
(14)
Bradford, PA · 35 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Cozy Embers Campground & Cabins, where there’s always room around the fire. RV, cabin, or tent—you’ll leave with a little more cozy than you came with. Set within the Allegheny National Forest, we offer full hookup RV sites and tent camping alongside rustic cabins, glamping accommodations, and a deluxe cabin—something for every kind of adventurer. Enjoy a sparkling pool, large wooded campsites, and a growing list of new renovations and upgrades designed to make each stay even more memorable. Located just 10 minutes from the 12,000-acre Allegheny Reservoir, you’ll find endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and exploring. With hiking, biking, and snowmobile trails nearby—and Kinzua Bridge State Park only 30 minutes away—Cozy Embers is the perfect place to unwind, reconnect, and make lasting memories.
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Full hookups
Allegheny National Forest

4. Allegheny National Forest

94%
(40)
National forest in Pennsylvania · 742 sites
Find plenty to do in this half-million-acre national forest in northwestern Pennsylvania.
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Electrical hookup
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Allegany State Park

5. Allegany State Park

95%
(22)
State park in New York · 625 sites
Natural history meets lakefront fun at this Western New York state park.
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Hideaway Valley

6. Hideaway Valley

98%
(90)
Springville, NY · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: Over 1000 feet of frontage on Cattaragus creek. Great for fishing. Large gravel pad for cars or RV. Great spot to start or end Kayaking trip. Zoar valley tavern with food and live music is less than 1/4 mile away. Firewood available. $10 for a wheelbarrow full. Driveway located about 300 feet west of Hammond Hill road. Creek side. Approximately 6379 Zoar valley rd.
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Electrical hookup
Campfires
The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF

7. The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF

99%
(87)
Sheffield, PA · 1 site
"The Nest" presents a secluded cabin nestled along Tionesta Creek, situated in the heart of Allegheny National Forest. Offering complete privacy and serenity, this retreat boasts no visible neighbors, allowing guests to unwind amidst the tranquil sounds of nature and the babbling creek. With breathtaking views from every angle, visitors can anticipate sightings of eagles, blue heron, black bear, and other wildlife while savoring morning coffee on the deck. Additionally, guests have access to two kayaks to enhance their stay. The cabin comfortably accommodates five guests and features a full bathroom equipped with an off-grid water system, ensuring continuous access to hot water. Parking for The Nest is along the widened shoulder of Route 666. From the parking spot, an approximately 100 ft lightly sloped dirt foot path with stairs leads to the cabin. Nominal amount of firewood is provided for every guest.
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Zoar Valley Forest Retreat

8. Zoar Valley Forest Retreat

98%
(262)
Cattaraugus, NY · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
🌿 Private forested land perched along the ledge of Zoar Valley — one of the most scenic and secluded spots in Western New York. Seven acres of hardwood forest, complete quiet, and zero neighbors. This is the kind of place you come to actually disconnect. 🔒 Two private sites, each with their own locked gate entrance and plenty of space between them. Whether you’re a couple looking to unwind or a group that needs room to spread out, this is a site for you. 🌳 The property borders state forest — hike straight from your campsite to the top edge of the valley for stunning views, or drive 25 minutes to Valentine Flats for creek access. 🌙 Shared porta potty on site, maintained regularly throughout the season. Firewood available for purchase on site ($15/bundle) — nearest town is about 25 minutes away, so grab supplies before you arrive or stock up here. ♻️ Take out what you take in. Leave it better than you found it. 🗺️ Plenty to do nearby — Zoar Valley rafting, Griffis Sculpture Park, Valentine Flats creek access, and more within a short drive. 🐾 Dogs welcome and off-leash friendly — one of the few private sites in the area where your dog can actually roam. $10/dog per stay.
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Elk Valley Creekside

9. Elk Valley Creekside

100%
(43)
Girard, PA · 1 site
This campsite is a wildlife paradise and a fisherman's dream come true on the banks of Elk Creek. We open April 1 each season so campers can take advantage of three months of incredible steelhead, smallmouth bass, lake suckers and stocked browns. There are seasonal fishing ponds on the property as well. Campers will marvel at the incredible nature surrounding this secluded campsite. Watch bald eagles from your tent deck, and keep your eyes open for deer, turkey, seasonal steelhead and beautiful monarch butterflies. Elk Valley Creekside is a perfect getaway for campers interested in wildlife photography - the photo opportunities are endless. This campsite is only 20 minutes from Presque Isle State Park, and 30 minutes from Erie, PA. There are solar lights around the campsite to help you see at night, and plenty of firewood is provided. The Space: Creekside Campsite with Incredible Fishing and Wildlife Guest Access: This was a former Tentrr Signature 5 star campsite. An outdoor toilet (job johnny) and fire wood are provided
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Chapman State Park

10. Chapman State Park

100%
(2)
State park in Pennsylvania · 88 sites
Chapman State Park: A Haven for Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers.
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Tionesta Lake

11. Tionesta Lake

100%
(1)
Park in Pennsylvania · 163 sites
Deep in the rugged hills of northwestern Pennsylvania, Tionesta Lake sparkles with a diversity of outdoor recreation and fun. The landscape offers scenic hiking, diverse wildlife, and rich layers of history. The lake offers enticing boating and productive fishing. The Seneca named this area "where the water separates the land"- making it the perfect respite for the amphibious.
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Electrical hookup
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Lake Erie State Park

12. Lake Erie State Park

88%
(12)
State park in New York · 109 sites
How’s that for a pedigree? The swimming might not be great but there's plenty to do at the shallowest of the Great Lakes. It’s a great place to picnic, watch the migratory birds, fish, and lounge on the beach. Take a canoe or a kayak out on the lake. Take advantage of the winter snow to go cross-country skiing. There’s even a disc golf course called Shipwreck Bluff Disc Golf Course. Forgot your putter at home? You can pick up a spare from the visitor center. In addition to the 97 campsites (tent & RV), there are 10 cabins in this 355-acre campground, with plenty of views of bluffs and protected water to go around. People rave about the sunsets here. Since the sites are lakeside, you can watch from the comfort of your camp chair. Once you’ve had your fill of lake life, head over to Niagara Falls. It’s just a short drive down the road.
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Woodcock Creek Lake

13. Woodcock Creek Lake

Park in Pennsylvania · 111 sites
Daily grind got you down? Consider lifting your spirit up in the gently rolling hills and placid views of Woodcock Creek Lake. This lake is the perfect complement to the tranquil rural countryside of central Crawford County, and the park ain’t too shabby either. Recreation opportunities feature picnicking, fishing, playground fun and relaxation. A spacious campground, developed swim beach, picnic areas and a six-lane boat launch are located in the Colonel Crawford Park Area on the south shore. What’s more is this is where the locals come to fish. Trout, muskie, bass, walleye and panfish await anglers in the calm waters of the lake.
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Electrical hookup
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Ellicottville Woods

14. Ellicottville Woods

100%
(29)
Great Valley, NY · 1 site · Tent, RV
13 beautiful wooded acres, 7 minutes from Holiday Valley and Ellicottville village. Flat area for pitching a tent or a camper plus parking, electricity (20amp regular exterior outlet) and an outhouse. Running stream further along the property for water in winter and spring (filter before drinking). Holiday Valley offers skiing (voted #6 in the East), mountain biking (dedicated bike lifts to the top of the hills), zip lining and the village has great restaurants and breweries.
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Electrical hookup
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The Highlander

15. The Highlander

97%
(47)
Pittsfield, PA · 1 site
Vintage camp with some creature comforts. Electric cooking range, microwave, coffee pot, small refrigerator TV and blu-ray player. Outdoor propane grill, charcoal .grill and fire ring. There is no running water in the camp. There is an outhouse for toilet facilities. We provide filtered water for drinking and cooking. We also provide fire wood.
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Charming Farmhouse On Working Farm

16. Charming Farmhouse On Working Farm

100%
(5)
Pittsfield, PA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
A 4bd 1bath farmhouse on a working farm backing onto hundreds of acres of Pa State Game Lands property. Conveniently located near the best hunting, fishing, hiking and biking trails Pennsylvania has to offer. This 100 yr old farmhouse is on a 284 acre working farm. Approximately 15 mins from Tidioute and the Allegheny River and about 7 mins from the Brokenstraw creek.
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Angie's Country Cabins B&B

17. Angie's Country Cabins B&B

97%
(74)
Cassadaga, NY · 6 sites
Amazing little camping spot, we have 6 cabins on site nestled in the woods as well as a guest room we rent. Check in 5 to 9 pm Check out 11 am at latest Drive up cabins are now the love shack and the moonlit lodge. Nice back porch at the main house with shared hot tub- bar- table- grill.. Plenty of Parking. you can drive right up to the love shack cabin or our moonlit lodge cabin. The rest of the rentals you MUST WALK to. No big hills. Super quiet spot in nature. Unplug and reconnect with nature and each other. Leashed, friendly dogs are welcome. No cats allowed inside any rentals. Please do not bring animals who are known to be unfriendly towards humans and; other animals. From may 1 to Oct 30 , we have a seasonal flush toilet. Off season from Oct 31 to end of April , we have a primitive outhouse for guest use Hot tub use : only touch the 2 left buttons which are keys and lights. Do not touch other buttons cover must be put back on after use. No loose trash put in our trash cans Extra fees apply when our policies are not followed
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Monarch Landing at Morgan's Point

18. Monarch Landing at Morgan's Point

100%
(13)
Port Colborne, ON · 1 site · Tent, RV
Find Your Peace at Monarch Landing at Morgan's Point Tucked beside Morgan's Point Conservation Area on the shores of Lake Erie, Monarch Landing is a small, family-owned camping retreat created for people who appreciate quiet spaces, nature, and the simple joy of slowing down. Unlike large campgrounds, we offer only a handful of spacious campsites beneath mature trees, giving every guest room to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. One of the things that makes Monarch Landing truly unique is our private trail. Step through the gate at the edge of the property and follow a scenic wooded path directly into the conservation area, where you'll emerge along one of Lake Erie's most beautiful and lesser-known shorelines. Spend your days searching for fossils among the ancient limestone shelves, exploring the Niagara Geopark, watching birds along the shoreline, or simply enjoying spectacular sunsets over the lake. Whether you're an early riser with a coffee in hand or someone who loves ending the day around a campfire beneath the stars, this is a place to reconnect with nature. What you'll enjoy: • Spacious campsites with plenty of room to spread out • Large, mature trees providing shade and privacy • Direct walking access to Morgan's Point Conservation Area • A private trail leading to the Lake Erie shoreline • Clean guest washroom with a flush toilet and sink • Potable drinking water available on-site • Firewood available for purchase • RV site with hydro service • A peaceful atmosphere, perfect for couples, families, solo travellers, and outdoor enthusiasts Although you'll feel immersed in nature, you're still only a short drive from Port Colborne, Long Beach, wineries, restaurants, golf courses, and many of Niagara's best attractions. Whether you're here for a quiet weekend, a sunset walk along Lake Erie, or simply to unwind around a campfire, we hope you'll leave feeling refreshed—and already planning your next visit. Welcome to Monarch Landing at Morgan's Point. Find Your Peace.
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Full hookups
Maple & Moss Retreat near Sunset Bay and Lake Erie

19. Maple & Moss Retreat near Sunset Bay and Lake Erie

98%
(24)
Silver Creek, NY · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to a peaceful 12-acre wooded retreat just minutes from the shores of beautiful Lake Erie. Tucked away at the end of a private drive, The Maple & Moss Retreat near Sunset Bay and Lake Erie, offers a quiet getaway where you can relax, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the best of Western New York. Spend your days boating, fishing, swimming, golfing, or exploring nearby attractions, then return to your campsite for an evening around the campfire under the stars. Our spacious covered pavilion is perfect for gathering with family and friends, while the fully equipped cookhouse features charcoal grills and picnic tables to make outdoor meals easy and enjoyable. Challenge your group to a game of horseshoes, unwind in the peaceful wooded surroundings, or simply enjoy the privacy of your campsite. Guests have access to a clean on-site restroom with a flush toilet, and seasonal water service is available from May 15 through October 15. Rustic cabins are also available for those looking for a simple camping experience with a little extra comfort. Our location is ideal for exploring the area: * Just 1 mile from Sunset Bay Beach on Lake Erie. * Less than ½ mile from Rosebrook Golf Course. * Minutes from the Sunset Bay boat launch—bring your boat and enjoy a day on Lake Erie. * Conveniently located between Evangola State Park and Lake Erie State Park, offering hiking, beaches, fishing, and spectacular sunsets. * Close to local restaurants, wineries, and attractions. * Easy access from New York State Thruway Exit 58. Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend, a family camping trip, a fishing adventure, or a group gathering, The Maple & Moss Retreat near Sunset Bay and Lake Erie is the perfect home base to experience everything the Lake Erie shoreline has to offer.
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Electrical hookup
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Chappel Hill Tree Farm

20. Chappel Hill Tree Farm

99%
(127)
Grand Valley, PA · 1 site · Tent, RV
This 140-acre property is an old farmstead last farmed in the 1950's. It lies in the Allegheny Plateau region of NW Pennsylvania and is mostly hardwood forest today. It is surrounded by thousands of acres of private forestland and is very secluded. Our goal is to provide a private and secluded yet accessible camping experience where you will see more deer than people. AANR/TNS friendly. There is excellent Verizon and T-Mobile service. The skies are dark at night and the sounds of nature will surround you. Campsite 1 is near where the farmhouse and barn once stood. The site is shaded by large, old maples that once shaded the farmhouse. Old fields surround the farmstead, but the woods are a short walk away.  It is the most popular campsite with an outhouse, fire ring and picnic table available. Campsite 2 is on the other side of the property. There is a fire ring but no picnic table.  Both sites easily accommodate anything from tents to RV's. Each site has a separate, gated, gravel road access. These are the only 2 campsites on the property and they are far enough apart (1/4 mile) to avoid any contact should both sites be occupied. There is a 2-mile loop hiking trail on the property that traverses a variety of habitats which are home to many animals and birds. The trail is well maintained and mowed. The terrain is flat to gentle slopes. The 1/2-mile Narnia Loop trail weaves through a young spruce forest like a maze. It is so cool, literally, even on the hottest days. The Allegheny River is about 10 miles away, near Tidioute, PA, and has excellent paddling and fishing. Titusville, PA is about 15 miles away and is home to Oil Creek State Park which has great trout fishing, an excellent paved bike/hike trail, and Drake Well Museum site of the first oil well ever drilled. Finally, you will be on the doorstep to the Allegheny National Forest with all the outdoor recreation it has to offer. We hope you enjoy the peace and quiet of nature on our property as much as we have. If you are curious about more details of the history and management of the property, please ask your host, Dave Trimpey, and he will be glad to share his knowledge of the land.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Chautauqua Lake camping guide

Where to go

South Shore

Located near the southeast end of the lake, Jamestown is home to a lively performing arts scene, along with the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, the National Comedy Center, and Audubon Nature Center. You can camp along the lakeshore and find options for tents and large RVs with full hookups and cabins, plus plenty of amenities.

West Shore

The town of Chautauqua is the home of the Chautauqua Institution, a renowned cultural and performing arts venue. Tucked away in a secluded wooded area just south of the town is Camp Prendergast, which offers tent sites and RV sites with full hookups and amenities like a swimming pool. 

East Shore

At the town of Bemus Point, Long Point State Park juts out into the lake and offers a modern boat launch, fishing dock, pavilions, and several trails. Just north, one of the oldest amusement parks in the country can be found at Midway State Park. The only bridge across the lake can also be found here, connecting to Stow on the western shore of the lake. 

North Shore

The county seat of Mayville can be found at the northern end of the lake. Continue north and you’ll hit Lake Erie, with plenty of options for enjoying the water, and more than 20 wineries. Lake Erie State Park offers easy lake access and a campground on a bluff overlooking the lake, and more than 100 tent and RV campsites and cabins. Further south along the shore, Evangola State Park is another option, while several private campgrounds sit right along the shores of Lake Erie. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Chautauqua Lake, located in western New York, is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, paddling, and boating in the summer. In winter, activities such as ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling are popular as well.

Jamestown, located near the southeast end of Chautauqua Lake, is home to the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, the National Comedy Center, and Audubon Nature Center. Visitors can also camp along the lakeshore and find options for tents and large RVs with full hookups and amenities.

Visitors to Chautauqua Lake can camp along the lakeshore and find options for tents and large RVs with full hookups and amenities. You can also explore different options for camping near Chautauqua Lake on Hipcamp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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