The best river, stream, or creek RV camping 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% (845)

Top-rated campgrounds

Abandoned School

1. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$29
 / night
The Heron Farm & Event Center

5. 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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Waking up at site 1

6. 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$43
 / night
View of Lake Erie.

11. 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
Pets
Campfires
from 
$65
 / night
Freedom to live, laugh and love reigns at Too Far Out Farm!

15. 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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
TOT4 Nexus

17. TOT4 Nexus

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Fredonia, NY
Experience the serenity of nature at its finest with our 3.4-acre bare land sanctuary. Nestled amidst a breathtaking tree and grapevine yard landscape across the street, this private retreat boasts a tranquil pond that reflects the beauty of the surrounding foliage and towering trees. The musical roar of the nearby train track adds a touch of nostalgia to the peaceful ambiance, creating a truly unique and unforgettable setting. You'll feel the vibrations of the train on the grounds. ***There is no fencing for dogs, and since it's near train track, please keep an eye on your dogs.*** Pitch your tent, park your RV, camper or tiny home and get away from the traffic! We plan to add an RV pedestal for electricity sometime in July. There is a shed on the property that is planned to have a washer and dryer and water soon. (check back for updates). The owner lives on property with her Tiny Home and dogs. Enjoy exploring nature onsite or at one of many nearby parks. Casinos are also close-ish for a fun night out. Have a nice fire at night to cook on or just relax and take in the serene surroundings. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the rejuvenating embrace of nature. Explore, cast a line in the pond, or simply bask in the natural splendor that surrounds you. With ample space and privacy, this idyllic sanctuary offers the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories with loved ones or finding solace in solitude.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$22
 / 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% (845)

Top-rated campgrounds

Abandoned School

1. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$29
 / night
The Heron Farm & Event Center

5. 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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Waking up at site 1

6. 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$43
 / night
View of Lake Erie.

11. 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
Pets
Campfires
from 
$65
 / night
Freedom to live, laugh and love reigns at Too Far Out Farm!

15. 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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
TOT4 Nexus

17. TOT4 Nexus

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Fredonia, NY
Experience the serenity of nature at its finest with our 3.4-acre bare land sanctuary. Nestled amidst a breathtaking tree and grapevine yard landscape across the street, this private retreat boasts a tranquil pond that reflects the beauty of the surrounding foliage and towering trees. The musical roar of the nearby train track adds a touch of nostalgia to the peaceful ambiance, creating a truly unique and unforgettable setting. You'll feel the vibrations of the train on the grounds. ***There is no fencing for dogs, and since it's near train track, please keep an eye on your dogs.*** Pitch your tent, park your RV, camper or tiny home and get away from the traffic! We plan to add an RV pedestal for electricity sometime in July. There is a shed on the property that is planned to have a washer and dryer and water soon. (check back for updates). The owner lives on property with her Tiny Home and dogs. Enjoy exploring nature onsite or at one of many nearby parks. Casinos are also close-ish for a fun night out. Have a nice fire at night to cook on or just relax and take in the serene surroundings. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the rejuvenating embrace of nature. Explore, cast a line in the pond, or simply bask in the natural splendor that surrounds you. With ample space and privacy, this idyllic sanctuary offers the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories with loved ones or finding solace in solitude.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$22
 / night

Camper favorites in and near Chautauqua Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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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 river, stream, or creek RV camping 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.