Camping on Chautauqua Lake

A western New York lake getaway known for fishing, water play, and year-round recreation.

97% (1276 reviews)
97% (1276 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Chautauqua Lake

Available this weekend

Under $50

12 top campgrounds in Chautauqua Lake

99%
(76)

Steelhead Run Recreation Area

2 sites · RVs7 acres · Westfield, NY
When arriving at Steelhead Run you are greeted by the sounds of Lake Erie in a tranquil wooded setting. Only steps away from beautiful Lake Erie and Chautauqua Creek. 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 just half a mile up the road. A quick drive inland, the historic town of Westfield provides weekend farmers markets, wineries, eateries, and antique shopping.
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from 
$65
 / night
98%
(319)

Zoar Valley Forest Retreat

2 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Cattaraugus, NY
🌿 Private forested land against the ledge of Zoar Valley. Large, spacious campsite areas, good 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. 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. Pergola party shelter located at Site 2. 🔒Locked gate at each site entrance from road for privacy and security. Site 1 is closer to the road, Site 2 is deeper in the woods, with adequate privacy and space between the two. ♻️ Take out what you take in, leave no trace. 🌙 Porta potty toilet on site maintained regularly, shared between sites April-November 🌳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. Drive down the road a few miles to the Forty Road trail head that leads to the creek down in Zoar Valley.
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$48
 / night
97%
(623)

The Heron Campground

86 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Sherman, NY
The Heron is a mindful community, raising conscious vibrations through art, music, farming, education and events while enriching lives and the land. 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. For more information on our farm, The Farm Store, and our festivals, visit 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 educational workshops, 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. Welcome Home!
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$40
 / night
100%
(9)

Roller-Coaster Road Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents350 acres · Cooperstown, PA
The Roller-Coaster Road Ranch offers many maintained trails, perfect for hiking or horseback riding, 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.
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$20
 / night
99%
(45)

Hideaway Valley

1 site · RV, Tent6 acres · Springville, NY
Learn more about this land:Over 1000 feet of frontage on Cattaragus creek. Great for fishing. Large gravel pad for cars or RV. Great spot to start or end Kayaking trip. Zoar valley tavern with food and live music is less than 1/4 mile away.
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$25
 / night
100%
(1)

Abandoned School

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · Tidioute, PA
Nestled on the outskirts of an abandoned school campus, Camp Allegheny stands as a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Surrounded by the tranquil embrace of the Allegheny National Forest, this property offers a unique blend of rustic charm and outdoor escapades. Accessible by car, the campsite provides a seamless transition from urban exploration to wilderness immersion. Envision waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant call of birds, as the forest beckons with a myriad of recreational opportunities. Embark on invigorating hikes through winding trails, where each step unveils breathtaking vistas and hidden wonders waiting to be discovered. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, rafting adventures down the nearby rivers promise an exhilarating journey through rushing waters and rugged terrain. Fishing enthusiasts will find solace in the pristine streams and serene lakes that dot the landscape, offering the perfect setting to cast a line and reel in the day's catch. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice explorer, the abundance of fish species and scenic beauty ensure an unforgettable angling experience. After a day of outdoor pursuits, return to the campsite to unwind under the star-studded sky, where the crackling of a campfire and the camaraderie of fellow travelers create memories that last a lifetime. With its unparalleled blend of natural splendor and recreational activities, Camp Allegheny invites you to embrace the spirit of adventure and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Allegheny National Forest.
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$20
 / night
99%
(45)

Angie's Country Cabins B&B

11 sites · Lodging10 acres · Cassadaga, NY
Amazing little camping spot, we have 6 cabins on site and a glamping tent nestled in the woods as well as a guest room we rent. Nice back porch with hot tub- bar- table- grill. Pavilion with picnic table at the main house. Plenty of Parking. Only the country cabin you can drive right up to the cabin. The rest of the rentals you MUST WALK to. No big hills. Super quiet spot in nature. Unplug and reconnect with nature and each other. Leashed dogs are welcome. No cats allowed inside any rentals. Please do not bring animals who are known to be unfriendly towards humans & other animals.
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$59
 / night
100%
(8)

Rustic Acres Rentals

13 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Pittsfield, PA
Rustic Acres Rentals is 50 acres of mostly dense woods with a beautiful stream running through the property that is great to cool off in the summer or just to sit by and relax. The property sits in a valley, so it blocks the lights from town at night to create super bright stars. We are 12 minutes to the closest boat launch on the Allegheny River, 20 minutes from Rocky Gap ATV Trail, and 40 minutes from Kinzua Dam and Kinzua Reservoir where you will also find the heart of the Allegheny National Forest. Endless things to do here including miles of biking and hiking trails that have amazing overlooks of the reservoir.
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$15
 / night
100%
(9)

French Creek Flood Plain Overlook

1 site · Tent36 acres · Union City, PA
This tent site sits in the woods on a hill just above the corner of French Creek (2022 PA River of the Year!) and a small tributary creek. It faces northwest over the valley providing amazing sunset views. This location is on the high-side of the Union City Dam which is a dry bed, flood control dam. Which means during snow melt, or rainy streaks, the dam will fill up and flood the entire valley. However during dry spells, French Creek will appear as any other creek. At peak flooding, it will make its way all the way up the tributary valley, making a beautiful lake front campsite. Unfortunately, this only occurs a few weeks out of the year (typically early spring and occasionally during wet falls) and is fairly unpredictable (you can compare the high-water vs low-water views from the photos). Most of the summer you can still enjoy the view over both the tributary valley and French Creek valley. (DISCLAIMER: Once or twice a year during the wettest streaks, the water rises high enough to flood the driveway, making it impossible to drive up directly to the campsite. If this happens, you will be notified before so you can choose either to be refunded and not stay or you can park 100 yards up the road and hike into the campsite to enjoy the unique and rare lakefront views. Again, these are natural events that are infrequent and unpredictable, but also provide a truly spectacular setting.) Located at the end of a dead end dirt road, adjacent to 100's of acres of federal protected land, and within sight of agriculture fields, there is an abundance of wildlife. For over 20 years, an active eagles nest has been located 1 mile north providing amazing opportunities to see either adult or juvenile eagles flying over French Creek hunting for fish. Deer can be seen early morning and late evening in the fields, as well as frequently crossing both valleys. All types of waterfowl flock the lake when it's flooded. I've personally seen up to 1000 geese at one time. Beyond relaxing and wildlife watching, there are plenty of other activities to explore in the area. Access to many nature walking trails. The Union City Dam, less than 1.5 miles down the road, provides walking, biking, scenic driving, and picnic opportunities. Kayaks/canoes can be used to float the creek when dry or paddle up and down the reservoir lake when flooded. Centrally located between the 2 small towns of Union City and Waterford with gas stations, grocery stores, great local dinning options, and more. About a half an hour drive to Erie and Presque Isle State Park. Come enjoy this extremely unique stretch of French Creek and Pennsylvania woods! DISCLAIMER: There is an active gravel pit to the North of the campsite. During weekdays from about 7 AM-5 PM, you will likely hear and possibly see some activity from the gravel pit.
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$40
 / night
91%
(35)

The Crosspatch

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · 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.
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$20
 / night
90%
(5)

Lake Of The Woods Cabin Camp

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Silver Creek, NY
Welcome to our charming cabin, built in the summer of 2022 from a simple 12X26 Amish frame. *Important note: Lake Rd is busy and there will be road noise that dies down after 11pm. There is a historic and active railroad line behind the cabin and you will hear the train pass through the day and night. Some people have found it cool or relaxing but others have not. Nestled on its own 4-acre parcel within our family's 12-acre plot, this cozy retreat offers a private driveway and setting for your getaway. New additions this year include a fire ring and porta-potty, adding to the complete experience of your stay. Just a mile down the road, you'll find access to Lake Erie, boasting a small beach and kayak slip. On clear nights, don't miss the opportunity to gaze at the stunning stars above. Your host, Brian, has infused the cabin with photography and treasures from his global journeys, adding a unique touch to your stay. The hosts philosophy is to not bother you at all during your stay unless you have a specific need or concern, so your stay is all yours. The price is kept low to reflect this a campsite rental, not a hosted Airbnb. With that said every effort is made to make things comfy. Features include: - Private driveway - 12-foot porch with a porch bar - Four windows for a refreshing cross breeze (East-West orientation) - Finished floors, walls, and ceiling, with insulated walls for comfort - Double bed and reading desk - 7-slot vinyl record bar for music enthusiasts - Wood stove (available November - February) - Lockable doors for security - Fire ring and camping chairs for outdoor enjoyment - Porta-potty with pump sink - Garbage bin and dish sink -Common Kitchen items like plates, bowls, cups, cutlery etc… -Garbage Bags (If garbage is used please take with you upon departure) True campsite experience and not an Airbnb rental, meaning there is no electricity, water, or sewer on the property. However, we provide battery packs and solar options for your convenience. The dish sink operates with a foot pump connected to a 5-gallon water jug. Guests are welcome to bring their own wood or explore the surrounding area for available resources. For your safety, please exercise caution when venturing into the woods and avoid approaching the active train tracks located at the back of the property. While the passing train adds to the rustic charm of the setting, it may NOT be suitable for light sleepers. Road traffic noise tends to calm down in quiet hours. Bed sleeps 2 but up to 3 welcome. We hope you enjoy your stay at what we believe is the coziest camp in WNY. Feel free to reach out with any questions or special requests. We look forward to hosting you soon!
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$65
 / night
99%
(63)

Lake Erie Views

3 sites · Lodging41 acres · Brocton, NY
Great views, Local wineries & Breweries, off grid camping. Enjoy!
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$49
 / night

Star Hosts in Chautauqua Lake

Dog-friendly getaways

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Camping on Chautauqua Lake guide

Overview

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.

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. 

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