Families looking for “the lake life” can find it at Conesus Lake Campground in Conesus, NY. Conesus Lake is the westernmost of the 11 world-famous Finger Lakes of New York State. Conesus Lake Campground offers several opportunities to have a cherished stay experience on the 8-mile long lake.

The campground has over 140 RV and tent camping sites, with additional sleeping cabins, trailers and camping cottages for rent. Kids love the jump pad, playground and swimming pool. The real star of the show is Conesus Lake. Water recreation is the name of the game, with boating and fishing opportunities galore. Directly from the campground, you can rent a dock, pontoon boats, kayaks and row boats – everything you need for an amazing day on the lake.

When away from the lake, this a great place to stay if visiting the excellent National Warplane Museum in Geneseo, NY. The museum hosts a “must see” nationally acclaimed airshow each June.

A stone’s throw away from the ultra-fun and exciting Six Flags Darien Lake amusement park, is a little slice of campground heaven. Darien Lakes State Park in Darien Center, NY is a tranquil, 154 campsite park that is perfect for an escape into nature and relaxation. If a more energetic visit is the priority, New York State’s roller coaster and amusement capitol is five short minutes away.  

The centerpiece of Darien Lakes State Park is the 12-acre Harlow Lake, which offers a swimming beach, picnic areas and a picturesque island accessible by a bridge. Surrounding the lake, is an extensive hiking and horseback trail system that offers exploration of the park’s woodlands. Guests can try their skills on the park’s 18-hole disc golf course. The campground spots are set in the park’s forests and open areas.

RV owners who love golfing, will score a hole-in-one when they “stay and play” at Hickory Ridge Golf & RV Resort in Holley, NY, and just minutes away from the historic Erie Canalway Trail.  The resort features 158 RV camping spots, predominantly set under a lush forest canopy. There are several modern amenities that campers can take advantage of, including a swimming pool, nature trails, laundry facilities and even a fishing pond.

The serene camping location alone is worth the visit. However, the big draw is Hickory Ridge’s par-72, 18-hole golf course that winds through the woods and features several elevation changes. A Pro Shop is on-site to help players with equipment and services. Once completing a round, many golfers enjoy the 19-hole at the clubhouse bar and restaurant – which also features music on Saturday’s in the summer.  

Nearby are four local wineries, including the award-winning Schwenk Wine Cellars in Kent, NY. Stop in for a tasting of their wines, made with recipes from the owner’s great grandfather in Germany.

If campers are looking for a slightly more comfortable stay in the outdoors, there is a place in Silver Lake, NY that must be visited. The Silverlaken Estate offers five acres of unique accommodations and lake- focused, eco-friendly activities.

They offer unique cabin and glamping spots. From a three-bedroom lodge to a tree tent (yes, a tent that’s in a tree) so many special opportunities await.  They also book “Tiny Houses,” which have been featured prominently on HGTV. New accommodations added in 2022 are the “House Boat” and “Sleep Bubble Tent” – which are both exactly what they sound like. The Estate’s commitment to environmental stewardship is another good reason for a future visit.

Of course, no stay at this campground is complete without visiting the “Grand Canyon of the East” – Letchworth State Park. Located only 15 minutes away, a visit to the park’s breathtaking gorge and waterfalls are an unforgettable experience.

One of the biggest draws to Trout Run Camp Resort in Wellsville, NY is water. The campground features 150 spacious full hook up sites, 17 log cabins and rustic tent camping sites. One of the reasons why campers visit this campground is because it’s located on the Genesee River, therefore offering guests opportunities for kayaking, tubing, and trout fishing. Trout Run’s heated saltwater swimming pool is a destination during the day, but is also a fun spot for swimming in the evening. New in 2022, is a multi-station splash pad that will cool the kids on a hot summer day.

Trout Run is also known for events. They are an excellent location for the Wellsville Balloon Rally in July which is right next door. The campgrounds also hosts a regatta, Christmas in July and Camp-O-Ween. They also rent out golf carts, bicycles, river tubes and kayaks.