Camping on Chautauqua Lake, New York: Best Chautauqua Lake Campgrounds 2024

United States
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New York
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Chautauqua Lake

97% (1216 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Chautauqua Lake

Dog-friendly getaways

99%

(63)

Under $50

90%

(5)

Big Sky Relaxation Station

12 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Gerry, NY

Our 75 acre property is located on a hilltop near Chautauqua Lake affording “ big sky” views and spectacular sunsets in a secluded natural setting . Our campsites range from partially wooded ,partially open meadow sites you access in your vehicle, to more remote sites accessed on foot . Most sites will be mowed in some areas and surrounded with woods and natural areas and views . Most sites have room for several tents , and some can accommodate campers and moderate size RVs. All sites are located far apart affording you privacy and a true wild experience . Note : though we will accept campers anytime of the year , May-Early Oct. is the best time weather wise to have access most all of our land . Nov. - April is normally quite wet or deep snow ( greatly limiting vehicular travel to camping areas ) . Between Nov 1 and May 1 you may be restricted a 4 acre open area for your vehicle . Wooded , open , half and half sites available . Rock fire rings , free fire wood . All sites are far apart , you likely won’t see other campers unless you go looking for them ! We offer privacy and nature’s beauty at its best . Spectacular sunsets , 360 degree star filled night sky with no light pollution . Our property abounds with wildlife and wild flowers . This weeks sightings have included Barred Owl , Pilated Woodpecker , Beavers , Red fox, deer with red wing blackbirds hitching a ride on back ! We have a network of trails for walking enjoying nature and viewing wildlife . Nearby activities and attractions include Chautauqua lake and surrounding attractions , Amish Country , Allegheny State Park , Allegheny National Forest,National Comedy Center , canoeing and Kayaking , hiking , fishing . We offer FREE firewood and fresh well water access to all campers and your pets are welcome here . We look forward to meeting and hosting you and will do all we can to make your experience all you want it to be !

94%

(8)

Welcome To The Westfield Barn

6 sites · RVs4 acres · Westfield, NY

To Be Added Learn more about this land:My land is a short walk from a fishing creek that empties into Lake Erie. Our sunsets are amazing! Lake Erie is a short drive or bike ride and hosts a nice white sand beach and a rocky beach for beach glass hunting. There is a full service town close by that hosts many weekend events and a great farmer's market on Saturday mornings. Westfield is an antique shopping and wine country destination with many wineries and breweries. The Chautauqua Institution is 13 miles away and Lilydale Assembly is 17 miles.

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!

95%

(11)

Goodschoolfarm

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents26 acres · Forestville, NY

We are a former homestead with a swimming pond, two beautiful art campers and camp spots. We have trails in the woods and are located near many places to explore: Lake Erie, Amish trail, excellent fishing and beautiful woods. We are on a dirt road very secluded and quiet but not far away from main traveling routes. Note to eclipse travelers: April is cold and often wet in Western New York, please be prepared for winter-like camping conditions. Including overnight temperatures in the 30’s and mud.

88%

(24)

Compass Rose Campgrounds

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents49 acres · Ripley, NY

Compass Rose Campground is 49 acres of camping fun. You can choose to go deep into the woods for a maximum camping experience or stay closer to the modern amenities. A full kitchen is available as well as bathrooms with showers. No potable water is available. The pond was created and stocked in 2022. Bring your fishing poles and rafts!! Kayaks are available for campers also. There are many, many trails available for hiking including an enchanted fairy trail. Train lovers will especially welcome the distant sounds of the iron horse passing by. Numerous activities on-site and nearby including mountain biking, fishing, boating on Lake Erie, horseback riding, many, many wineries, antiquing, pottery shops, Panama Rock (28 min), Chautauqua Institute (25 min), Lillydale (35 min), Waldameer Amusement Park and Water World (40 min), Presque Isle (40 min), Casino (30 min) and much more. The nearby towns have unique down home diners and shops. Only 4 sites per night will be rented out. Monthly discount rates are available. Please contact me for the discount code.

12 top campgrounds in Chautauqua Lake

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!

Lake Erie Views

3 sites · Lodging41 acres · Brocton, NY

Great views, Local wineries & Breweries, off grid camping. Enjoy!

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.

Angie's Country Cabins

11 sites · Lodging10 acres · Cassadaga, NY

Amazing little camping spot, we have 6 cabins on site and a glamping tent nestled in the woods. 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. No pit bulls around off the leash. No cats allowed inside any rentals.

Big Sky Relaxation Station

12 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Gerry, NY

Our 75 acre property is located on a hilltop near Chautauqua Lake affording “ big sky” views and spectacular sunsets in a secluded natural setting . Our campsites range from partially wooded ,partially open meadow sites you access in your vehicle, to more remote sites accessed on foot . Most sites will be mowed in some areas and surrounded with woods and natural areas and views . Most sites have room for several tents , and some can accommodate campers and moderate size RVs. All sites are located far apart affording you privacy and a true wild experience . Note : though we will accept campers anytime of the year , May-Early Oct. is the best time weather wise to have access most all of our land . Nov. - April is normally quite wet or deep snow ( greatly limiting vehicular travel to camping areas ) . Between Nov 1 and May 1 you may be restricted a 4 acre open area for your vehicle . Wooded , open , half and half sites available . Rock fire rings , free fire wood . All sites are far apart , you likely won’t see other campers unless you go looking for them ! We offer privacy and nature’s beauty at its best . Spectacular sunsets , 360 degree star filled night sky with no light pollution . Our property abounds with wildlife and wild flowers . This weeks sightings have included Barred Owl , Pilated Woodpecker , Beavers , Red fox, deer with red wing blackbirds hitching a ride on back ! We have a network of trails for walking enjoying nature and viewing wildlife . Nearby activities and attractions include Chautauqua lake and surrounding attractions , Amish Country , Allegheny State Park , Allegheny National Forest,National Comedy Center , canoeing and Kayaking , hiking , fishing . We offer FREE firewood and fresh well water access to all campers and your pets are welcome here . We look forward to meeting and hosting you and will do all we can to make your experience all you want it to be !

Goodschoolfarm

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents26 acres · Forestville, NY

We are a former homestead with a swimming pond, two beautiful art campers and camp spots. We have trails in the woods and are located near many places to explore: Lake Erie, Amish trail, excellent fishing and beautiful woods. We are on a dirt road very secluded and quiet but not far away from main traveling routes. Note to eclipse travelers: April is cold and often wet in Western New York, please be prepared for winter-like camping conditions. Including overnight temperatures in the 30’s and mud.

Welcome To The Westfield Barn

6 sites · RVs4 acres · Westfield, NY

To Be Added Learn more about this land:My land is a short walk from a fishing creek that empties into Lake Erie. Our sunsets are amazing! Lake Erie is a short drive or bike ride and hosts a nice white sand beach and a rocky beach for beach glass hunting. There is a full service town close by that hosts many weekend events and a great farmer's market on Saturday mornings. Westfield is an antique shopping and wine country destination with many wineries and breweries. The Chautauqua Institution is 13 miles away and Lilydale Assembly is 17 miles.

Compass Rose Campgrounds

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents49 acres · Ripley, NY

Compass Rose Campground is 49 acres of camping fun. You can choose to go deep into the woods for a maximum camping experience or stay closer to the modern amenities. A full kitchen is available as well as bathrooms with showers. No potable water is available. The pond was created and stocked in 2022. Bring your fishing poles and rafts!! Kayaks are available for campers also. There are many, many trails available for hiking including an enchanted fairy trail. Train lovers will especially welcome the distant sounds of the iron horse passing by. Numerous activities on-site and nearby including mountain biking, fishing, boating on Lake Erie, horseback riding, many, many wineries, antiquing, pottery shops, Panama Rock (28 min), Chautauqua Institute (25 min), Lillydale (35 min), Waldameer Amusement Park and Water World (40 min), Presque Isle (40 min), Casino (30 min) and much more. The nearby towns have unique down home diners and shops. Only 4 sites per night will be rented out. Monthly discount rates are available. Please contact me for the discount code.

98%

(96)

Toboggan Hill Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents1 acres · Westfield, NY

Located in the heart of wine country three miles from Lake Erie, we have 60 acres of pasture for our sheep and goats, 16 acres of Concord grapes, 1 1/2 acres of vegetable garden, and 20 acres of woods. Learn more about this land:Our camp site is near woods and pasture. You would have a chance to visit our sheep, goats, chickens, and pigs. We also have a vegetable garden and a grape vineyard. Purchases of meat, eggs, vegetables, and maple syrup may be made at our farm. You could cook a breakfast of bacon and eggs from our farm at your campsite. A view of Lake Erie is within walking distance from the campsites. We are in the heart of grape country with several wineries nearby. We are 12 miles from Chautauqua Institution, which offers concerts and other cultural opportunities.

93%

(7)

The Highlander

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Pittsfield, PA

Rustic cabin with some creature comforts. Electric cooking range, microwave, coffee pot, small refrigerator TV and blu-ray player. Outdoor propane grill, charcoal grill and fire ring. There is no running water in the camp. There is an outhouse for toilet facilities. We provide filtered water for drinking and cooking. We also provide fire wood.

100%

(14)

Cozy country farm house

4 sites · Lodging47 acres · Fredonia, NY

This is a single occupancy listing. You and your party will be the only guests. We do have a separate living space in our barn so only parking is shared. Originally 100 acres was purchased by the Deering family back in the 1800's from the Holland Land company. Then sometime near 1900 the farm was split between two brothers, each receiving 50 acres. The home was originally built in 1903 and is currently updated and remodeled for today’s codes and standards. 47 acres of accessible woods and pasture remain for hiking and at the top of the property a breath-taking view across Lake Erie into Ontario Canada. Learn more about this land: Why book a site when you can have a house? This cozy country farm house, situated on 47 acres that has a breath-taking view overlooking Lake Erie into Canada, worth the hike up the hill. 1st floor living, remodeled kitchen and bath with all new appliances, bedroom has a new queen bed. 4 season home has gas appliances and heat. Great location for winter sports just 20 minutes from the newly renovated and reopened Cockaigne ski resort, and it’s just miles from access to marked snow mobile trails. Mud room makes it easy to shed and store boots and jackets. Spring time activities includes “March maple syrup madness” and exploring the Amish communities of Chautauqua county. For summertime it is just minutes to the Lake Erie shoreline and Dunkirk harbor for aquatic activities. In the Fall you cannot beat the canopy of colors. There are 3 wonderful wineries within 5 miles of your door, bring a bottle home and enjoy it by an outdoor campfire, or just sit on the patio and look up at the night sky. In the morning you can make your coffee by the cup, or carafe then sit on the patio and watch the sunrise. Major department and food stores are just minutes away. Come stay for a day and you will end up wanting to stay for more, a minimum 3 day 2 night stay is recommended.

100%

(3)

The Boedo Pavillion

3 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · 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, stay connected with WiFi, 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.

Available this weekend

98%

(96)

Toboggan Hill Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents1 acres · Westfield, NY

Located in the heart of wine country three miles from Lake Erie, we have 60 acres of pasture for our sheep and goats, 16 acres of Concord grapes, 1 1/2 acres of vegetable garden, and 20 acres of woods. Learn more about this land:Our camp site is near woods and pasture. You would have a chance to visit our sheep, goats, chickens, and pigs. We also have a vegetable garden and a grape vineyard. Purchases of meat, eggs, vegetables, and maple syrup may be made at our farm. You could cook a breakfast of bacon and eggs from our farm at your campsite. A view of Lake Erie is within walking distance from the campsites. We are in the heart of grape country with several wineries nearby. We are 12 miles from Chautauqua Institution, which offers concerts and other cultural opportunities.

Lake Erie Views

3 sites · Lodging41 acres · Brocton, NY

Great views, Local wineries & Breweries, off grid camping. Enjoy!

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!

Angie's Country Cabins

11 sites · Lodging10 acres · Cassadaga, NY

Amazing little camping spot, we have 6 cabins on site and a glamping tent nestled in the woods. 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. No pit bulls around off the leash. No cats allowed inside any rentals.

Compass Rose Campgrounds

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents49 acres · Ripley, NY

Compass Rose Campground is 49 acres of camping fun. You can choose to go deep into the woods for a maximum camping experience or stay closer to the modern amenities. A full kitchen is available as well as bathrooms with showers. No potable water is available. The pond was created and stocked in 2022. Bring your fishing poles and rafts!! Kayaks are available for campers also. There are many, many trails available for hiking including an enchanted fairy trail. Train lovers will especially welcome the distant sounds of the iron horse passing by. Numerous activities on-site and nearby including mountain biking, fishing, boating on Lake Erie, horseback riding, many, many wineries, antiquing, pottery shops, Panama Rock (28 min), Chautauqua Institute (25 min), Lillydale (35 min), Waldameer Amusement Park and Water World (40 min), Presque Isle (40 min), Casino (30 min) and much more. The nearby towns have unique down home diners and shops. Only 4 sites per night will be rented out. Monthly discount rates are available. Please contact me for the discount code.

Star Hosts in Chautauqua Lake

99%

(69)

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.

Lake Erie Views

3 sites · Lodging41 acres · Brocton, NY

Great views, Local wineries & Breweries, off grid camping. Enjoy!

Angie's Country Cabins

11 sites · Lodging10 acres · Cassadaga, NY

Amazing little camping spot, we have 6 cabins on site and a glamping tent nestled in the woods. 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. No pit bulls around off the leash. No cats allowed inside any rentals.

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!

Goodschoolfarm

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents26 acres · Forestville, NY

We are a former homestead with a swimming pond, two beautiful art campers and camp spots. We have trails in the woods and are located near many places to explore: Lake Erie, Amish trail, excellent fishing and beautiful woods. We are on a dirt road very secluded and quiet but not far away from main traveling routes. Note to eclipse travelers: April is cold and often wet in Western New York, please be prepared for winter-like camping conditions. Including overnight temperatures in the 30’s and mud.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

99%

(36)

Allegheny National Forest

Sheffield, Pennsylvania

Clarendon, Pennsylvania

Tionesta, Pennsylvania

Evangola State Park

Farnham, New York

Woodcock Creek Lake

Saegertown, Pennsylvania

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.