Turn your tent into a home base to explore the jaw-dropping power of these majestic waterfalls.
This triple-waterfall wonder is nature at her grandest. And camping sets just the right mood to connect with its awesome majesty.
Niagara is really three falls: the Horseshoe, the Bridal Veil, and the American. The Niagara River flows past Goat Island before dropping 167 feet, forming the panoramic waterfalls. The closest access is in the US at the niagara falls State Park, but Canada may have more stunning panoramas since the view encompasses all three falls.
You can't pitch a tent beside the falls, but there are private campgrounds less than 6 miles away. Several nearby RV parks can get you set up with electrical and sewage hook-ups.
The closest public campground is Four Mile Creek State Park, about 16 miles from the falls. Located on Lake Ontario, the lush grounds have clean facilities and spacious tent sites. Or you can upgrade to a yurt. New York considers this a flagship park, so it has a few extra amenities like laundry and a camp store.
Further east, Golden Hill State Park has a small campground near Thirty Mile Lighthouse. Visitors can tour the decommissioned lighthouse or rent the second story for overnight stays.
Grand Island makes a good spot for kayakers to explore the Niagara River upriver towards Lake Eerie. Avoid heading downriver, as the current gets strong leading towards the falls. Beaver Island Park has several canoe launches, as well as nature trails and fishing points.
Bring your passport if you want to cross the border to experience Niagara Falls on both sides. Each country offers its own unique tours. In the US, Maid of the Mist gives boat tours that go right next to the falls. Over in Canada, Journey Behind The Falls leads visitors directly behind the Horseshoe Falls through a tunnel.
You can also see Niagara Falls from the 520-foot Skylon Tower, atop a 175-foot Ferris wheel, or ziplining across.