How much does camping cost at Lake Erie State Park?

Camping fees at Lake Erie State Park range from $15-$30/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Lake Erie State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Lake Erie State Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Lake Erie State Park before I book?

Yes! Lake Erie State Park has 5 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Lake Erie State Park?

Lake Erie State Park is open End of June to end of August.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Lake Erie State Park?

Yes, Lake Erie State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Lake Erie State Park?

Fire policies at Lake Erie State Park: Campfires allowed; fish scrap disposal now prohibited within the park.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Is there cell service at Lake Erie State Park?

Cell phone service at Lake Erie State Park is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Lake Erie State Park have?

Lake Erie State Park has 99 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Lake Erie State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Lake Erie State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Lake Erie State Park?

Lake Erie State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store, Laundry. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Lake Erie State Park

4.34

168 reviews

5838 Route 5, BROCTON, New York, 14716, United States

Top 8% in NYFall

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

636 ft

Price

$15 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

99 campsites

Season

2026 Camping & Cabin...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on Regional Programs and Services - Camping Unit Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

636 ft

Price

$15 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

99 campsites

Season

2026 Camping & Cabin...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on Regional Programs and Services - Camping Unit Official Website

Get Directions

Lake Erie State Park

$15.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping fees range from $15 to $30 per night for campsites. Cabins have peak season requirements with a 7 or 14-night minimum stay and off-season...

Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00

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Provider

7167929214

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Plan a trip to Lake Erie State Park

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Campground Map

5838 Route 5, BROCTON, New York, 14716, United States

Lake Erie State Park

5838 Route 5, BROCTON, New York, 14716, United States

Nearby places

Dunkirk (7 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Westfield (8.5 miles, approximately 17 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, fuel, and supplies available in nearby towns like Dunkirk and Westfield. Ice and wood are sold at the campground entrance.

Driving directionsWest on the NYS Thruway (I-90): Take exit 59 to Route 60 North. Turn left on Route 5. The park is located 7 miles west of Dunkirk, New York. East on the NYS Thruway (I-90): Take exit 60 to Route 394 North. Turn right on Route 5. The park is located 8.5 miles from Westfield, New York.

Accessibility from major roads is straightforward with paved roads leading to the park. Some reviews mention potential challenges for RVs due to low clearance bridges on certain routes. One user advised avoiding the right exit from Route 5 west as it leads to a 12' clearance arched tunnel under Route 5.

Weather at Lake Erie State Park

Current alert: Sites 11-21 are closed due to erosion concerns, with reevaluation planned for spring 2025.

Best Time to Camp at Lake Erie State Park

Fall delivers the park's best conditions. Daytime highs in the mid-40s to mid-60s°F and cool nights make for comfortable camping, while the bluff-top vistas light up with foliage. Migratory birds move through in impressive numbers along the lakeshore. Warblers, waterfowl, and raptors. And crowd levels drop noticeably after summer. Summer brings warm, dry weather ideal for beach activities and evening campfires, though this is peak season. Spring and winter see their share of lake-effect weather; winter transforms the park into a snow-covered landscape where temperatures require serious bundling.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 8% in NY

Described as best season: comfortable temps, fall foliage and migratory birds.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: End of June to end of August.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: 2026 Camping & Cabins : Available 5/15 - 10/11/26

About Lake Erie State Park

Lake Erie State Park sits on 355 acres along the lake's southern shore in Chautauqua County, with 99 campsites and 10 cabins spread across rolling terrain and high bluffs. Fees run $15-$30 per night. The park offers electric and non-electric sites, a disc golf course, playgrounds, and swimming beach access, though reviews mention occasional flooding in low-lying sites and dated restroom facilities.

Lake Erie State Park offers a mix of camping accommodations, including primitive, tent, RV, and cabin lodging options.

Historical Significance

The park opened in 1928 and has operated continuously for nearly a century. It sits in Western New York's grape belt and near the Chautauqua Institution, which has anchored the region's intellectual and artistic life for generations.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the park's best conditions. Daytime highs in the mid-40s to mid-60s°F and cool nights make for comfortable camping, while the bluff-top vistas light up with foliage. Migratory birds move through in impressive numbers along the lakeshore. Warblers, waterfowl, and raptors. And crowd levels drop noticeably after summer. Summer brings warm, dry weather ideal for beach activities and evening campfires, though this is peak season. Spring and winter see their share of lake-effect weather; winter transforms the park into a snow-covered landscape where temperatures require serious bundling.

ElevationThe park's varied topography creates an ever-changing landscape that delights visitors as they explore its diverse terrain and discover new vantage points throughout their stay.

Natural Features and SceneryThe park's defining feature is its dramatic elevation change: high bluffs carved by wind and water rise above Lake Erie's shoreline, creating natural observation decks with sweeping lake views. Inland, the landscape softens into the rolling hills typical of Western New York. Mature trees shade portions of the campground, especially in the wooded areas, while bluff-side sites sit more exposed to the elements. The terrain here reflects the meeting point of one of the Great Lakes and the characteristic topography of the region's grape belt, where elevation and proximity to the water shape both the views and the weather.

Geological RegionThe park claims its spectacular position along Lake Erie's southern shores in Chautauqua County, where ancient geological forces sculpted dramatic high bluffs that now serve as natural observation decks. These elevated vantage points, carved by millennia of wind and water, rise majestically above the lake, while inland, the terrain softens into the characteristic rolling hills of Western New York. This unique meeting of lake and land creates a diverse ecosystem where the powerful presence of one of the Great Lakes shapes every vista and influences every breeze that rustles through the park.

Scenic ViewsLake Erie sunsets are a highlight, with spectacular views from bluff-side campsites. Several user reviews specifically praised the lake views from sites like 11, 17, and 20.

Lodging & AccommodationsIn addition to campsites, the park offers cabins. These cabins have a stove, sink, fridge, and microwave but do not include pots, pans, dishes, or trash cans. They require a 2-night minimum stay outside peak season and a 7- or 14-night minimum stay during peak season (late June to late August).

Programs & ActivitiesThe park features a recreation room with activities like foosball, pool, air hockey, and board games. Movies for children are shown on Saturdays with free popcorn, though these programs appear to have low attendance.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

3PM

Check-out

11 AM

Stay Limit

Acamping party may occupy a site for a maximum of 14 continuous nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Guests per site limits are not specified for campsites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops with both electric and non-electric options. Bluff-side sites sit more exposed with open views, while wooded sites in the 90s loop provide more shade and spacing. Overall spacing varies. Some visitors describe sites as spacious and good-sized, while others note that non-lakefront sites feel closer together with limited seclusion. Some RV sites require long extension cords to reach hookups.

Reservation PlatformsReserve America website and call center.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up reservations available for one-night stays if booked within 3 days of arrival.

Cancellation PolicyReservations outside the 9-month maximum window cannot be changed or cancelled until 18 days after the reservation was made.

AccessibilityThe campground includes handicap access, and reviews show some paths are suitable for walking or biking. The level of accessibility for bathrooms or other facilities is not explicitly detailed.

Site SizeCampsites are described as good-sized and spacious by some visitors, while others mention that sites are more exposed and close together, particularly non-lakefront sites.

PrivacyPrivacy varies; some sites are close together with limited seclusion, while others, especially those in the '90s loop,' are more shaded and slightly separated.

Total Campsites99 campsites

Recommended SitesUsers recommend loop 90s for more shade and privacy. Bluff-side sites offer superior lake views but are more exposed to wind and erosion risks. Avoid flooded sites during rainy periods.

Best CampsitesSites in the 90s loop get consistent praise for shade and slightly better separation between neighbors. Sites 11 and 17 offer lake views, with 17 positioned bluff-side for sunsets. Avoid site 91, which floods frequently according to multiple reviews.

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Amenities available

Lake Erie State Park offers a range of facilities to enhance the camping experience. Among the amenities are lake access, cabins, rustic and electric campsites, showers, picnic areas with grills, pavilions, a dump station, and playgrounds. There is a water fill-up station on-site.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors at Lake Erie State Park can enjoy a variety of activities, including picnicking, hiking, biking, fishing, and more. The park also has volleyball courts, a baseball field, a basketball half-court, horseshoe pits, and an 18-hole disc golf course.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSome sites, particularly bluff-side, are closed due to erosion concerns. Poison ivy and site flooding after heavy rain have been noted in user reviews.

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed; fish scrap disposal now prohibited within the park.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours enforcement noted as inconsistent in user reviews.

Emergency ServicesHospital within 10 miles; exact details unavailable. Police station and ranger station contact number is 7167929214.

Trash & RecyclingTrash receptacles are described as not being close to many campers, requiring a bit of effort to dispose of waste. Recycling options are not explicitly mentioned.

Water FeaturesLocated along Lake Erie with limited water access due to rocky shoreline.

Camp HostHosts have been noted as friendly and helpful in user reviews, often providing dog treats and assistance.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is described as 'pretty decent' by some visitors. However, details about specific carriers or coverage levels are not provided.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.3

168 reviews

Recommended

Lake Erie State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Lake Erie State Park receives mixed reviews. While many visitors praise the natural beauty, spacious campsites, and clean facilities, others note issues with dated restrooms, flooding at campsites, and lack of staff presence during late hours.

Review Summaries

Based on 168 reviews

What Campers Love

Commonly mentioned positives include the park's beautiful views, well-maintained grounds, clean bathrooms, and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors also appreciate the hot showers with great pressure...

Based on 168 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints revolve around dated restroom facilities, flooding at campsites after rain, lack of privacy at some sites, and limited staff enforcement of rules during late-night disturbances.

Based on 168 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites in the 90s loop are recommended for better shade and a quieter experience. Lakefront sites like site 17 offer great views but may be affected by erosion issues.

Based on 168 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend selecting campsites in the 90s loop for more shade and privacy. Bringing long extension cords for RVs is advised for certain sites. For cabin users, carrying additional supplies...

Based on 168 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight the family-friendly environment and activities, while complaints about site flooding are more common during the rainy season. Off-peak seasons are noted for reduced crowds...

Based on 168 reviews

Camper Quotes

"We took the canoe out from the beach which was great," noted one user. Another mentioned, "Sunsets are really spectacular." A reviewer highlighted, "Bathrooms are clean and always had paper. Showers...

Based on 168 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility-related reviews indicate that the park has handicap access and is generally suitable for walking. No detailed feedback from visitors with disabilities is provided.

Based on 168 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The park is described as dog-friendly, with a maximum of two pets allowed per site. Visitors appreciate the pet-friendly policies but occasionally express concerns about unattended barking dogs.

Based on 168 reviews

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Go if

Fall campers who want lake views without summer crowds: the bluff-top sites rated 5/5 by the algorithm and migrating warblers, raptors, and waterfowl move through in numbers. The 90s loop delivers the best shade and spacing, and reviewers consistently back that up.

Skip if

Sites 11-21 are currently closed due to erosion, so if a lakefront bluff site was the whole point, your options are limited. Heavy rain also floods low-lying sites like 91, and after-dark noise enforcement is loose enough that light sleepers have noticed.

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