The best camping in Letchworth State Park, NY

Letchworth’s glacier-carved landscapes have earned the park the moniker of “Grand Canyon of the East.” Nowadays, instead of ice, the Genesee River runs through the canyon spaces, shouldered by lush forests. Visitors have 66 miles of hiking trails to enjoy, as well as trails for horseback riding, biking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. Letchworth’s conference and nature center offers outdoor, history, and performing arts programs, plus guided walks, tours, and a summer lecture series. After a day’s worth of hiking to the three major waterfalls that lie between cliffs of up to 600 feet in height, campers can rest up at one of Letchworth State Park Campground’s 270 campsites (or 81 comfortable cabins).

1. As Letchworth is a popular camping destination, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially on weekends.
2. Booking can be easily done online or by phone and up to nine months in advance.
3. In the peak season, from mid-May through early October, same-day reservations are allowed only until 3pm, and walk-ins are not permitted. In winter, non-reserved sites are open to same-day reservations and walk-ins.

For waterfall chasing and wildlife watching, a visit during the late summer or early spring is ideal. On the other hand, the fall season promises picture-perfect views as the leaves burst into color. Winter has a different appeal and the park offers such winter activities as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, tubing, sledding, and snowmobiling—trails right outside the park’s Maplewood Lodge and nearby Highbanks Camping Ground are part of the New York state snowmobile trail system.

• The camping area has a well-stocked camp store and laundry.
• Pets are only allowed in certain loops and must be on a leash no longer than six feet.
• There are no equipment rentals available inside the park, so visitors must bring their own skis, snowshoes, and other gear.
• Cell service and wifi are limited in the park, so it’s best to download maps before visiting.