The best campgrounds in Chautauqua Lake with horseback riding

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.

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Top-rated campgrounds

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% (599)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Shine On Valley

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7 sites · Tents, Lodging · Conewango Valley, NY

ShineOn Valley is a 75-acre valley located on the Amish Trail on the Chautaugua/ Cattaraugus County line. This valley is quiet & secluded. The only sounds heard are nature which includes the pitter-patter of horse & buggy passings. Local Amish shops provide a wide range of products & services. New York's largest population of endangered species live at ShineOn Valley & in the surrounding area. Rare plants & animals can be seen on nature walks using our numerous trails. Guided tours are available for booking. Hunting opportunities are booked according to seasons & licensing. Both Tenting or full RV experience -we have multiple listings available. Learn more about this land: Tent and Boondocking camper options. See rare and endangered species galore of both plants and animals. Secluded Valley provides peace and protection from the unnatural around us. Engage in educational nature walks, hunting, fishing, medicinal herbs observations and more. Enjoy natural living at Shine On Valley.

2. Roller-Coaster Road Ranch

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(49)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Cooperstown, PA

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. Many different campsites are available in various uniquely situated sites.

3. The Heron Farm & Event Center

97%

(657)

86 sites · Tents, RVs · Panama, NY

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!

4. Camp Bandur

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(61)

26 sites · Tents, RVs · Erie, PA

We enjoy camping and like to share our passion with others.Learn more about this land:This property is a new, up and coming camping oasis. The camping area offers field camping, camping near a quiet stream or in the secluded woods. Any suggestions for improvement are welcome and big plans for attractions are in the not too distant future! All sites are accessible by vehicle.

5. The Nason Trust

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(10)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Marienville, PA

The Nason Trust is a 4th generation owned outdoor enthusiasts haven tucked away on private land in the outskirts of the Allegheny National Forest. We offer primitive camping along with equestrian primitive camping. We have a dedication to preserving natural habitat, as well as the cooperative efforts of people with diverse interests in the outdoors to provide a positive recreational experience for all of our visitors. The Nason Trust is located by a significant amount of trail systems that traverses gorgeous, rocky, stream-filled trails that pass by remnants of Kellettville's boomtown. While guests get to enjoy the geology, elevation changes, with dramatic views while enjoying their favorite outdoor activities. Campers will have access to the North Country National Scenic Trail that is the longest in the national trail system it spans across 8 states from North Dakota to Vermont covering 4,800 miles. Minister Creek Trail is a short drive away. It's a moderately challenging hike that passes several outstanding rock outcroppings. After your hike you can drop by frog rock the local's favorite swimming hole that's along the same short drive back from Minister Creek trail back to the Nason Trust. Tionesta Creek and Salmon Creek are well stocked to lure in any avid fishermen. Along with another local gem; Ross Run's Habitat Improvement area it's a half mile set aside for Children 15 and under and people with Special needs giving them their very own special stocked fishing area.

6. The Crosspatch

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(60)

8 sites · Tents, RVs · Salamanca, NY

Family owned for 41 years! The Crosspatch got it's name because it is a triangular piece of land located between Route 242, Route 353 and Baker Road, the patch between the crossroads! The Crosspatch has been a working horse ranch in the beautiful Enchanted Mountains of New York for many yearsLearn more about this land:We have two camping areas, one with a pavilion and outhouses and a creek and one with only walk to (approx one third mile hike private access, in the woods.) Both beautiful and private.

7. Ellicottville Woods

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(21)

1 site · Tent, RV · Great Valley, NY

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.

8. Hardscrabble Nature Preserve

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(18)

1 site · RV · Westfield, NY

CONSTRUCTION ALERT BEGINNING AUG 11th. Barn raising behind the campsite. Will not obstruct the view. A Nature Lovers Paradise. 40 acres of private land on a rural road with a developed driveway 30 amp service and Amish rain shelter. Breathtaking views of lake Erie sunsets and Canadian windmills. A gentle breeze and stargazing welcomes you. Nearby activities include horseback, riding, wine tasting, breweries, Chautauqua Institution, Amish markets, rural bike riding, hiking along the Chautauqua gorge. Limited man-made light perfect for stargazing. Serenade by farm animals nearby with plenty of deer, crickets and silence except for the Fourth of July. Bear, Deer, coyote, song birds, bunnies abundant. NO AGGRESSIVE DOG BREADS that will chase or hunt the wildlife. Rustic picnic table on site. NO FIREWORKS. Firewood can be picked up in town or forged on the property. No cutting down or damaging trees. This is a quiet area not for any loud noises or partying. One night fee charge if garbage is left behind (that includes cigarette butts). Port-a-potty on site. Sorry about all the rules but, you never know. Back acres provide plenty of hiking and a secret beaver dam. The driveway newly installed 2022 and directly off the road. Will need levelers because there is a mild incline. LEAVE NO TRACE. GARBAGE IN/GARBAGE OUT. Send me a picture of your set up!!! Enjoy

9. Rustic Cabin

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(6)

1 site · Lodging · Limestone Township, PA

Learn more about this land:*No running water * This is a rustic cabin in the forest. It has electricity, bedding for 4, a kitchen, living room, bunk room, and bedroom. It's in the heart of the Allegheny National Forest amd has access to close by hiking trails and great fishing streams as well as nearby the Allegheny River. The Hickory Creek Wilderness Ranch is very nearby for horseback riding. There is no running water, but there is a spring that is about a 2 min. drive away and jugs at the cabin for fetching water.

10. Field of Dreams

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(5)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Sinclairville, NY

Learn more about this land: Campsites are in an overgrown hay field with paths. Plenty of room to turn around, park snowmobile trailers and/or horse trailers. Also room to put a fence up for horses or dogs, etc. Nice stream at the back of the property.

11. Too Far Out Farm

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1 site · Tent, RV · Guys Mills, PA

Nestled in Pennsylvania Dutch country, between a large dairy farm and the Erie National Wildlife Refuge, Too Far Out Farm is favored for its natural beauty and tranquility. Residents of TFO Farm include horses, sheep, and various other friendlies of the canine and feline varieties. You could set your watch by the evening visits of our neighbors: A herd of very social dairy cows, who always seem to mosey on down right around supper time every evening. The primitive campsite will accommodate tents or a small RV. Don't worry about nosey or annoying camp neighbors, because we only book one group at a time - YOURS! The campsite includes a large fire ring, a limited amount of cut and stacked wood, a composting toilet and a small camp table. There is room for a smaller rig if you want to bring your RV or ATV. ATV or horse trail riding delights many a visitor all four seasons of the year around here. Our herd may be available for horseback riding on the back roads of Penn's woods, but please let us know ahead of time if you want to trail ride. I'm sorry, but we cannot accommodate your personal horses at this time. The farm is within walking distance of hiking and cross-country ski trails that meander through the Erie National Wildlife Refuge. Also, Crawford County's best kept secret for Perch, Walleye and Blue Gill fishing (including ice fishing) is a mile away at Sugar Lake. If you come for the hunting, (in season) let us know in advance and we will help you secure the proper permits and learn the rules of the refuge. Speaking of the wildlife, come armed with your binoculars and a good camera. Common sightings include high and low-flying Bald Eagles and other birds of prey, as well as many varieties of colorful, native song birds. You may also encounter other woodland creatures, such as, White-Tail Deer, Black Bears, Coyotes, and of course, smaller furry critters, like raccoons, fox, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, beavers, ground hogs and opossum. Be sure to steer clear of the skunks and the porcupines, though! We can't wait to share this little slice of heaven on earth with you at Too Far Out Farm!

Camper favorites in and near Chautauqua Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Ellicottville Woods

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(21)

1 site · Tent, RV · Great Valley, NY

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.

Hardscrabble Nature Preserve

97%

(18)

1 site · RV · Westfield, NY

CONSTRUCTION ALERT BEGINNING AUG 11th. Barn raising behind the campsite. Will not obstruct the view. A Nature Lovers Paradise. 40 acres of private land on a rural road with a developed driveway 30 amp service and Amish rain shelter. Breathtaking views of lake Erie sunsets and Canadian windmills. A gentle breeze and stargazing welcomes you. Nearby activities include horseback, riding, wine tasting, breweries, Chautauqua Institution, Amish markets, rural bike riding, hiking along the Chautauqua gorge. Limited man-made light perfect for stargazing. Serenade by farm animals nearby with plenty of deer, crickets and silence except for the Fourth of July. Bear, Deer, coyote, song birds, bunnies abundant. NO AGGRESSIVE DOG BREADS that will chase or hunt the wildlife. Rustic picnic table on site. NO FIREWORKS. Firewood can be picked up in town or forged on the property. No cutting down or damaging trees. This is a quiet area not for any loud noises or partying. One night fee charge if garbage is left behind (that includes cigarette butts). Port-a-potty on site. Sorry about all the rules but, you never know. Back acres provide plenty of hiking and a secret beaver dam. The driveway newly installed 2022 and directly off the road. Will need levelers because there is a mild incline. LEAVE NO TRACE. GARBAGE IN/GARBAGE OUT. Send me a picture of your set up!!! Enjoy

Rustic Cabin

92%

(6)

1 site · Lodging · Limestone Township, PA

Learn more about this land:*No running water * This is a rustic cabin in the forest. It has electricity, bedding for 4, a kitchen, living room, bunk room, and bedroom. It's in the heart of the Allegheny National Forest amd has access to close by hiking trails and great fishing streams as well as nearby the Allegheny River. The Hickory Creek Wilderness Ranch is very nearby for horseback riding. There is no running water, but there is a spring that is about a 2 min. drive away and jugs at the cabin for fetching water.

Field of Dreams

100%

(5)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Sinclairville, NY

Learn more about this land: Campsites are in an overgrown hay field with paths. Plenty of room to turn around, park snowmobile trailers and/or horse trailers. Also room to put a fence up for horses or dogs, etc. Nice stream at the back of the property.

Too Far Out Farm

88%

(8)

1 site · Tent, RV · Guys Mills, PA

Nestled in Pennsylvania Dutch country, between a large dairy farm and the Erie National Wildlife Refuge, Too Far Out Farm is favored for its natural beauty and tranquility. Residents of TFO Farm include horses, sheep, and various other friendlies of the canine and feline varieties. You could set your watch by the evening visits of our neighbors: A herd of very social dairy cows, who always seem to mosey on down right around supper time every evening. The primitive campsite will accommodate tents or a small RV. Don't worry about nosey or annoying camp neighbors, because we only book one group at a time - YOURS! The campsite includes a large fire ring, a limited amount of cut and stacked wood, a composting toilet and a small camp table. There is room for a smaller rig if you want to bring your RV or ATV. ATV or horse trail riding delights many a visitor all four seasons of the year around here. Our herd may be available for horseback riding on the back roads of Penn's woods, but please let us know ahead of time if you want to trail ride. I'm sorry, but we cannot accommodate your personal horses at this time. The farm is within walking distance of hiking and cross-country ski trails that meander through the Erie National Wildlife Refuge. Also, Crawford County's best kept secret for Perch, Walleye and Blue Gill fishing (including ice fishing) is a mile away at Sugar Lake. If you come for the hunting, (in season) let us know in advance and we will help you secure the proper permits and learn the rules of the refuge. Speaking of the wildlife, come armed with your binoculars and a good camera. Common sightings include high and low-flying Bald Eagles and other birds of prey, as well as many varieties of colorful, native song birds. You may also encounter other woodland creatures, such as, White-Tail Deer, Black Bears, Coyotes, and of course, smaller furry critters, like raccoons, fox, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, beavers, ground hogs and opossum. Be sure to steer clear of the skunks and the porcupines, though! We can't wait to share this little slice of heaven on earth with you at Too Far Out Farm!

Public campgrounds in and near Chautauqua Lake

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Buckaloons Campground

17 sites · Tents, RVs · in Allegheny National Forest

Hooks Brook Boat Access Campground

32 sites · in Allegheny National Forest

100%

(5)

Willow Bay Campground

101 sites · Tents, RVs · in Allegheny National Forest

100%

(1)

Handsome Lake Boat Access Campground

20 sites · in Allegheny National Forest

Hopewell Boat Access Campground

20 sites · in Allegheny National Forest

Pine Grove Boat Access Campground

13 sites · in Allegheny National Forest

100%

(1)

Tracy Ridge Campground

101 sites · Tents, RVs · in Allegheny National Forest

100%

(9)

Quaker Area Campground

190 sites · Tents, RVs · in Allegany State Park

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(4)

Red House Area Campground

122 sites · Tents, RVs · in Allegany State Park

100%

(1)

Dewdrop Campground

60 sites · Tents, RVs · in Allegheny National Forest

Morrison Trailhead

38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Allegheny National Forest

75%

(4)

Allegany Cabins

311 sites · Tents, RVs · in Allegany State Park

Stories from the community

A

Adam

October 2025

Tent

1 night at The Crosspatch

Nice piece of property. Host was very friendly and made sure I had everything I needed.

S

Sarah

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Roller-Coaster Road Ranch

Lovely spot to explore! A little something by for everyone there! Wildlife, old foundations to hunt for, beautiful streams- PERFECT open spot to star gaze

A

Ann

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at The Heron Farm & Event Center

Clean air and a clean campground❣️Definitely had a hippy vibe to it, and was not far from the highway. The staff was in contact with me right after my same day reservation, and the owner I met was welcoming. There are port a potties and showers available, but they are in the process of building an actual bathhouse. There is also a pet fee to be aware of. I would describe this as rustic camping, so do not expect something like a formal campground with paved parking spots, fire rings, and picnic tables at the sites. Think open farm field, walk in woods camping. I would stay again❣️

S

Shannon

September 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ellicottville Woods

It’s a beautiful area! Quiet, so many stars at night. Wonderful spot to visit during the changing of the leaves. Hosts were responsive and had great recommendations for local sights.

M

Matthew

September 2025

13 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Camp Bandur

Adam's property was exceptionally well-kept, open and spacious, and super convenient to all the Erie, PA amenities. We were especially impressed by how clean the facilities were, the availability of firewood, and Adam's quick responsiveness whenever we needed anything. We would definitely stay here again. Thanks Adam!

D

Danielle

September 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at The Heron Farm & Event Center

We loved camping at the Heron! A beautiful and unique place to enjoy nature. We will certainly be back :)

J

Jan

August 2025

16 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to The Crosspatch

This is the third time I have camped here on my way to see my grandchildren and coming back. It is a good place, has what I need and is calm and peaceful.

J

Jeanne

August 2025

15 ft campervan

3 nights at The Crosspatch

Another great stay! I love the Cross Patch. It's my favorite spot!

A

Alex

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Shine On Valley

We were visited by two cute and very friendly dogs, which really elevated the experience. The little bathtub sink was running again which was nice, and there being a compost toilet was also cool (though bring your own TP!)

Alex

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Crosspatch

Came here on a couple summer weeknights while visiting the Seneca nation and allegheny state park, and we were the only campers. Dolly welcomed us and her son showed us around the place, but for the most part we were there alone. The pavilion was a great place to convene and offered helpful living amenities, while our camp spot was next to the horse field, offering beautiful views. Would love to come back.

N

Nicole

August 2025

22 ft Class B

With pets

3 nights at Hardscrabble Nature Preserve

AMAZING STAY AND VIEWS! Host, Diane, was great! She shared local happenings and restaurants. The property was secluded, yet minutes away from downtown Westfield and local wineries/attractions. There’ a Love’s gas station nearby and off I-90 with a dump station, so very convenient. WE WILL DEFINITELY BE BACK!

R

Rachael

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Heron Farm & Event Center

When we got there I wasn't handed a bunch of papers and rules so I was a little unsure how everything was going to go, but I soon realized everyone was incredibly helpful, they have signs everywhere with what you need to know so they don't have to waste paper and they were just easy going and accommodating. As a single mom camping with a small child every interaction with guests and staff was positive and I never felt uncomfortable. The staff, realizing I had a small child, offered suggestions that made all the difference and later realized they were teachers. Highly recommend. We look forward to coming back 😊

S

Stephanie

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Crosspatch

This site is rustic yet gorgeous. Horseback riding available across the road and Dolly couldn't be nicer. Really great for people who want to experience country life while still being a short drive to casino or the cute shops or thriving nightlife in Ellicottville. Will definitely return!

joe

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at Ellicottville Woods

Nice and quite. Great tent spot. Perfect place to unwind.

S

Scott

July 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Roller-Coaster Road Ranch

Todd was very helpful and complete with his walkthrough/instructions. Site was spacious and scenic. No toilet facility at Main Bridge, so be prepared for that. Todd provided plenty of firewood and fire ring. There are three levels spots at main bridge large enough for a pop-up, so you can situate to suit yourself. Very pleasant stay.

It’s not just an outhouse. It’s a compost toilet.

Matthew

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Ellicottville Woods

The campsite was quiet, nestled in the woods, amongst mountains, green, green, and quiet. Tess is a great host.

Eric

July 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hardscrabble Nature Preserve

Lovely, quiet, and private are all apt descriptions for this property. I appreciated the solitude. Hardly a car came down the road and no planes passed overhead. It was quiet except for the sounds of nature. Really nice little spot.

R

Robert

June 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Hardscrabble Nature Preserve

Nice site, awesome views! Easy access and right off I-90 (NYS Thruway)

Jessica

June 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Shine On Valley

Christina was a very gracious host. She welcomed us, supplied firewood, and took our group on a little tour of the beaver dam. The bathroom/outhouse was clean and met our needs. We enjoyed our stay! Thank you!

J

Jessica

June 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Heron Farm & Event Center

Lots of options for campsites! Helpful staff. Was a very peaceful and enjoyable weekend there!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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(39)

Allegheny National Forest

Sheffield, Pennsylvania

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping in Chautauqua Lake with horseback riding 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.