The best dog-friendly RV parks in Chautauqua Lake

·

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% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Chautauqua Lake

2. Steelhead Run Recreation Area

99%
(170)
2 sites · RVs · Westfield, NY
When arriving at Steelhead Run you are greeted by the sounds of Lake Erie. It is a short walk to beautiful Lake Erie and Chautauqua Creek. There are two camp sites adjacent from one another. One is labeled the east side and the other is labeled the west side. They are about 100 feet apart from one another. It is ideal for friends and/or family who would like camp as a group. The sites cannot accommodate boat trailers. Our location offers an array of experiences from walks along the beach, wildlife viewing, relaxing to the view of incredible sunsets and so much more. Cocktails, food, and public boat launching can be found in town just half a mile up the road. A quick drive inland, the historic town of Westfield provides weekend farmers markets in the summer months, wineries, eateries, and antique shopping.
Full hookups
from 
$70
 / night

3. Abandoned School

97%
(58)
4 sites · Tents, RVs · Tidioute, PA
Camp Beside History on the Legendary Route 666 Welcome to a one-of-a-kind camping experience—where you can pitch a tent or park your RV beside a hauntingly beautiful, abandoned schoolhouse deep in the PA woods. Located on the legendary Route 666, this private campsite offers an unforgettable blend of eerie history and peaceful seclusion. There is only one site—and it’s all yours. No other campers. No shared space. Just you, your group, and the freedom to explore. What’s Included: Exclusive Access: When you book, the entire property is yours. Roam, relax, and make it your own. Tent & RV Friendly: Separate areas for tents and RVs of any size. Water Available: On-site spigot Firewood: Purchase bundles on-site or collect fallen wood from the forest behind the schoolhouse. Firepits: Use an existing ring or safely build your own. On-Site Porta Potty: Clean and private, located discreetly on the grounds. Make Yourself at Home: Explore, take photos, and unwind in total privacy. Nearby Attractions: Allegheny National Forest Minister Creek Trail Pithole Ghost Town Tionesta Dam Hearts Content Old Growth Forest Allegheny Outfitters (0.7 mi) George’s Little Store (0.6 mi) – essentials + 24/7 Porta Potty Haller’s General Store (9 min) – clean indoor restrooms Important Notes: Private Property Signs: Ignore them—you’re welcome here. Restrooms: A porta potty is on-site. Additional restroom options nearby if needed. If you love peaceful nature, off-grid exploring, and a spooky twist, this hidden gem is for you. Whether it’s ghost stories by the fire or hiking nearby trails, this place was made for memory-making. One site. One schoolhouse. All yours.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$29
 / night

8. 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!
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night

9. Zoar Valley Forest Retreat

98%
(382)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Cattaraugus, NY
🌿Private forested land along the ledge of Zoar Valley. Large, spacious campsite areas, that are great for groups. A rare location that is secluded and quiet, away from people and traffic. For those that want to feel isolated and immersed in nature and the forest or watch for wildlife! Includes seven acres to primitive camp on or bring an RV/camper in (10ft clearance at gate). Each site has a picnic table, and brick fire pit. 🔒Locked gate at each site entrance from road for privacy and security, with adequate privacy and space between the two sites. Site 1 is closer to the road. Site 2 is deeper in the woods. Camping deck, pergola party shelter and brick oven located at Site 2. ♻️ Take out what you take in, leave no trace. 🌙 Porta potty toilet on site maintained regularly, shared between sites May-October 🌳The campsite borders state forest to hike freely and is about 1000ft until the top edge of the valley with beautiful vantage points of the valley. Also, within 15 minutes to Valentine Flats (main creek access point) Dogs welcome, and can be off-leash!
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$43
 / night

15. The Boedo Pavillion

95%
(11)
5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Silver Creek, NY
Welcome to our secluded 10-acre wooded retreat accessible via a private drive. Discover a tranquil haven featuring a picnic pavilion and tables, complemented by a fully-equipped cookhouse with charcoal grills. Unwind around the firepit, or engage in a friendly game of Horseshoes. For those seeking a rustic experience, cabins are available, and there's a charming rustic outhouse on-site. Situated just one mile from the scenic Sunset Bay USA on Alleghany Rd, our location offers proximity to restaurants and is only half a mile from Rosebrook Golf Course. Conveniently located off NYS Thruway exit 58, we are nestled between two state parks—Evengola State Park and Lake Erie State Park—both within easy driving distance. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that surround our retreat. Right down the street from the boat launch bring your boat and spend the day on beautiful Lake Erie. Seasonally there is water onsite May 15-Oct 15.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$23
 / night

16. The Nason Trust

95%
(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.
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

20. Chappel Hill Tree Farm

99%
(172)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Grand Valley, PA
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$21
 / night

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% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Chautauqua Lake

2. Steelhead Run Recreation Area

99%
(170)
2 sites · RVs · Westfield, NY
When arriving at Steelhead Run you are greeted by the sounds of Lake Erie. It is a short walk to beautiful Lake Erie and Chautauqua Creek. There are two camp sites adjacent from one another. One is labeled the east side and the other is labeled the west side. They are about 100 feet apart from one another. It is ideal for friends and/or family who would like camp as a group. The sites cannot accommodate boat trailers. Our location offers an array of experiences from walks along the beach, wildlife viewing, relaxing to the view of incredible sunsets and so much more. Cocktails, food, and public boat launching can be found in town just half a mile up the road. A quick drive inland, the historic town of Westfield provides weekend farmers markets in the summer months, wineries, eateries, and antique shopping.
Full hookups
from 
$70
 / night

3. Abandoned School

97%
(58)
4 sites · Tents, RVs · Tidioute, PA
Camp Beside History on the Legendary Route 666 Welcome to a one-of-a-kind camping experience—where you can pitch a tent or park your RV beside a hauntingly beautiful, abandoned schoolhouse deep in the PA woods. Located on the legendary Route 666, this private campsite offers an unforgettable blend of eerie history and peaceful seclusion. There is only one site—and it’s all yours. No other campers. No shared space. Just you, your group, and the freedom to explore. What’s Included: Exclusive Access: When you book, the entire property is yours. Roam, relax, and make it your own. Tent & RV Friendly: Separate areas for tents and RVs of any size. Water Available: On-site spigot Firewood: Purchase bundles on-site or collect fallen wood from the forest behind the schoolhouse. Firepits: Use an existing ring or safely build your own. On-Site Porta Potty: Clean and private, located discreetly on the grounds. Make Yourself at Home: Explore, take photos, and unwind in total privacy. Nearby Attractions: Allegheny National Forest Minister Creek Trail Pithole Ghost Town Tionesta Dam Hearts Content Old Growth Forest Allegheny Outfitters (0.7 mi) George’s Little Store (0.6 mi) – essentials + 24/7 Porta Potty Haller’s General Store (9 min) – clean indoor restrooms Important Notes: Private Property Signs: Ignore them—you’re welcome here. Restrooms: A porta potty is on-site. Additional restroom options nearby if needed. If you love peaceful nature, off-grid exploring, and a spooky twist, this hidden gem is for you. Whether it’s ghost stories by the fire or hiking nearby trails, this place was made for memory-making. One site. One schoolhouse. All yours.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$29
 / night

8. 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!
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night

9. Zoar Valley Forest Retreat

98%
(382)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Cattaraugus, NY
🌿Private forested land along the ledge of Zoar Valley. Large, spacious campsite areas, that are great for groups. A rare location that is secluded and quiet, away from people and traffic. For those that want to feel isolated and immersed in nature and the forest or watch for wildlife! Includes seven acres to primitive camp on or bring an RV/camper in (10ft clearance at gate). Each site has a picnic table, and brick fire pit. 🔒Locked gate at each site entrance from road for privacy and security, with adequate privacy and space between the two sites. Site 1 is closer to the road. Site 2 is deeper in the woods. Camping deck, pergola party shelter and brick oven located at Site 2. ♻️ Take out what you take in, leave no trace. 🌙 Porta potty toilet on site maintained regularly, shared between sites May-October 🌳The campsite borders state forest to hike freely and is about 1000ft until the top edge of the valley with beautiful vantage points of the valley. Also, within 15 minutes to Valentine Flats (main creek access point) Dogs welcome, and can be off-leash!
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$43
 / night

15. The Boedo Pavillion

95%
(11)
5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Silver Creek, NY
Welcome to our secluded 10-acre wooded retreat accessible via a private drive. Discover a tranquil haven featuring a picnic pavilion and tables, complemented by a fully-equipped cookhouse with charcoal grills. Unwind around the firepit, or engage in a friendly game of Horseshoes. For those seeking a rustic experience, cabins are available, and there's a charming rustic outhouse on-site. Situated just one mile from the scenic Sunset Bay USA on Alleghany Rd, our location offers proximity to restaurants and is only half a mile from Rosebrook Golf Course. Conveniently located off NYS Thruway exit 58, we are nestled between two state parks—Evengola State Park and Lake Erie State Park—both within easy driving distance. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that surround our retreat. Right down the street from the boat launch bring your boat and spend the day on beautiful Lake Erie. Seasonally there is water onsite May 15-Oct 15.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$23
 / night

16. The Nason Trust

95%
(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.
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

20. Chappel Hill Tree Farm

99%
(172)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Grand Valley, PA
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$21
 / night

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

The best dog-friendly RV parks in Chautauqua Lake 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.