Darien Lakes State Park
00 review10475 HARLOW ROAD, DARIEN CENTER, New York, 14040, United States
Darien Lakes State Park
$100.00 - $280.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$100.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Pricing varies significantly based on the type of camping (cabins, RV, tent). User reviews mention weekend pricing as high as $280 and standard camping at $100 per night excluding park access.
About this campground
Discover endless outdoor adventures at Darien Lakes State Park, where wooded trails beckon mountain bikers and hikers, while crystal-clear Harlow Lake invites anglers to cast their lines. From friendly games on the basketball court to challenging rounds of disc golf, this dynamic campground transforms with the seasons—offering peaceful horseback rides along scenic bridle paths in summer and exhilarating snowmobile trails through snow-covered forests in winter. Modern comforts await with heated facilities, a refreshing beach for swimming, and well-appointed picnic areas perfect for family gatherings under towering trees.
Darien Lakes State Park offers tent camping, RV camping, group camping sites, and cabin lodging. Primitive camping is also available at some designated sites.
Historical SignificancePerfectly positioned in Western New York's most spectacular corridor, this campground serves as your gateway to two of America's natural wonders. Journey west to witness the thundering majesty of Niagara Falls, or venture east to explore the breathtaking gorges of Letchworth State Park, known as the 'Grand Canyon of the East.' This prime location makes Darien Lakes an ideal basecamp for experiencing the region's most treasured landmarks.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of New York's seasons in this outdoor paradise. Winter blankets the park in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling enthusiasts, while summer brings warm, balmy days ideal for swimming and lakeside relaxation. Spring and fall offer spectacular transitions, with comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking and camping. Our detailed seasonal analysis helps you discover the optimal weeks for your camping adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where rolling hills meet dense woodlands, creating a tapestry of natural beauty that changes with every turn. Deep ravines carved by babbling streams wind through the terrain, leading adventurers to hidden corners of the park. At the heart of it all lies the serene twelve-acre Harlow Lake, its mirror-like surface reflecting the surrounding forest canopy. Visitors consistently rave about the stunning vistas that unfold throughout the park, from sunrise breaking over the hilltops to evening light filtering through the trees.
Geological RegionNestled in the rolling countryside of south-western Genesee County, this remarkable landscape tells the story of ancient geological forces. The park's distinctive hilly terrain creates a diverse ecosystem where hardwood forests cascade down into mysterious ravines, carved over millennia by persistent streams. The crown jewel, twelve-acre Harlow Lake, rests peacefully among these hills, a natural basin that captures both rainwater and imagination, offering a pristine aquatic habitat in the heart of this varied topography.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-accessible cabins are available. User reviews consistently praise the cleanliness and suitability of these accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with one user noting they could fit four tents and multiple hammocks with room to spare.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews mention significant space between sites, allowing privacy and peace.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring a mallet for tent stakes due to rocky ground; cabins are closer to the park but vary in size and amenities.
Best CampsitesUser reviews mention spacious tent sites and ADA-accessible cabins.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4PM
Stay Limit
Acamping party and their equipment may occupy a site for a maximum of 14 continuous nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sites are large enough for families and groups.
Groups
Specific group site descriptions, including guest and vehicle limits, are not available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are described as large and spacious, accommodating multiple tents and vehicles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, with seasonal variations in activities and weather.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Reserve America, with pre-registration available two days prior to arrival.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations outside the 9-month maximum window are restricted for 18 days after reservation creation.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Darien Lakes State Park offers a diverse range of activities, including biking, basketball, disc golf, horseback riding, camping, fishing, hiking, hunting, picnicking, and wintertime snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
Hiking
The park features hiking trails that traverse woodlands, ravines, streams, and areas near Harlow Lake. No specific details about trail lengths or difficulty are included.Fishing
Harlow Lake provides opportunities for fishing from the shore. User reviews describe experiences of catching small fish using a spinner, though no additional details about fish types or fishing quality were provided.Swimming
Swimming is permitted at the beach when lifeguards are on duty. The authoritative source highlights safety measures such as water testing and lifeguard staffing.Biking
The park offers biking activities, though trail descriptions and difficulty levels are not specified.Winter Activities
Wintertime activities include snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits are inconsistently available; bring your own if necessary.
Hazards
General hazardsIssues like rotting picnic tables, wasp infestations, and electric circuit panel corrosion have been mentioned.
Active alertsSwimming closures when lifeguards are unavailable or water quality tests fail.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger station available at the park (585-547-9242); other emergency services are not explicitly mentioned.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresHarlow Lake is a central feature for fishing and scenic views.
Common complaintsOverpricing, lack of park admission inclusion, limited amenities, safety concerns near concert events, and electric maintenance issues.
HostFriendly and helpful staff, although some inconsistencies in service quality are noted.
Campground Map
10475 HARLOW ROAD, DARIEN CENTER, New York, 14040, United States
Driving directionsUse exit 48A - Pembroke Exit off the NYS Thruway, I-90, and follow the signs South on Rte. 77 (Allegany Road) to Darien Lakes State Park, three miles from Darien Lakes Amusement and Camping Resort.
Road access is straightforward via the NYS Thruway (I-90), exit 48A. Seasonal navigation challenges or closures are not mentioned.Nearby places
Darien Lakes Amusement and Camping Resort (3 miles), Letchworth State Park, Niagara Falls State Park (roughly equidistant).
Nearby supplies
Darien Lake Theme Park, gas stations, grocery stores, weekly farmers market nearby
specific distances not provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Darien Lakes State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Darien Lakes State Park vary widely, with some praising the spaciousness and cleanliness of cabins and campsites as well as friendly staff, while others criticize maintenance issues, high prices, and overcrowding during holiday periods.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive reviews highlight spacious campsites, clean facilities, ADA-accessible cabins, and immersive camping experiences near the amusement park. Several users enjoyed activities like fishing and...
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Common Concerns
Complaints frequently mention high costs, rotting picnic tables, lack of fire pits, maintenance issues in RVs and cabins, and poor customer service. Security concerns and overcrowding were also noted...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reviewers recommend bringing a mallet for rocky tent sites, renting golf carts for easier travel, and ensuring adequate supplies for cabin stays, such as hand soap, towels, and tablecloths. A...
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Seasonal Insights
Seasonal trends indicate overcrowding and security issues on holiday weekends, while quieter midweek stays provide a more relaxing experience. Winter activities like snowmobiling are available, but...
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Camper Quotes
1) 'GORGEOUS campground. You feel like you’re in the woods but are still within walking distance to the park.' 2) 'Don't be fooled folks, this place has gone downhill in recent years.' 3) 'The cabins...
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Site-Specific Reviews
One user mentioned rotting picnic tables and insufficient fire grates at their site, while another praised the large tent sites for accommodating multiple tents and hammocks.
Accessibility Features
ADA-accessible cabins received positive feedback for cleanliness and suitability, though one reviewer noted difficulty obtaining answers from staff on-site.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at all campsites, and one user expressed gratitude for the pet-friendly policies. However, the need for proof of rabies inoculation was emphasized.
Last updated August 10, 2025