Lake Erie State Park
00 review5838 Route 5, BROCTON, New York, 14716, United States
Lake Erie State Park
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
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 requirements of at least 2 nights.
About this campground
Perched along 355 pristine acres of Lake Erie's southern shore, this beloved state park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 99 thoughtfully placed campsites and 10 cozy cabins nestled among rolling hills and scenic bluffs. Families gather here for endless adventures, from spirited volleyball matches to challenging rounds on the 18-hole disc golf course that winds through the wooded landscape. Bird watchers flock to these grounds year-round, binoculars in hand, as the park has earned its reputation as one of the region's premier destinations for spotting rare and migratory species. Children's laughter echoes from the playgrounds while the gentle breeze carries the sounds of Lake Erie's rhythmic waves.
Lake Erie State Park offers a mix of camping accommodations, including primitive, tent, RV, and cabin lodging options.
Historical SignificanceSince opening its gates in 1928, this cherished park has watched nearly a century of memories unfold along its shores. Nestled in the heart of Western New York's renowned grape belt, the park sits in the cultural shadow of the prestigious Chautauqua Institution, where intellectual and artistic traditions have flourished for generations. This unique location weaves together the natural beauty of the lakeshore with the rich agricultural heritage of the surrounding vineyards and the vibrant cultural tapestry of the region.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints the park in dramatically different hues. Summer arrives with warm, dry days perfect for lakeside picnics and evening campfires. As autumn approaches, refreshing rains nurture the landscape while temperatures create ideal hiking conditions. Spring brings its own gentle showers, awakening wildflowers and filling the air with birdsong. Winter transforms the park into a snow-dusted wonderland, where the lake effect creates a pristine blanket of white and temperatures invite visitors to bundle up for crisp walks along frost-kissed trails.
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 SceneryStand atop the park's dramatic bluffs and let your breath catch as Lake Erie stretches endlessly before you, its waters shifting from deep sapphire to glittering silver as clouds dance overhead. The landscape rolls and dips in gentle waves, mirroring the lake itself, while mature trees provide cooling canopies over picnic areas where families have gathered for generations. These high perches offer some of the most spectacular sunset views in Western New York, painting the sky in brilliant oranges and purples as day melts into evening.
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.
Campsite details
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.
Sites 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.
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 CampsitesUsers 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 CampsitesSite 11 offers exceptional views of Lake Erie. Site 17 is bluff-side with sunset views.
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 are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes loops with electric and non-electric options. Bluff-side sites are more exposed; wooded sites in the 90s loop provide shade.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season runs from the end of June to the end of August.
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.
Accomodation available
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.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
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
Hiking opportunities include scenic trails, particularly in the eastern part of the park. The trails are considered easy and suitable for walking or biking.Fishing
Fishing is available, but specific details about the types of fish or quality of fishing are not provided.Swimming
Swimming in Lake Erie is permitted, but no lifeguards are on duty. Visitors are reminded to contact the park office for nearby supervised swimming options.Biking
The park's paved roads make it suitable for biking. Visitors particularly enjoy the long, quiet park roads for cycling.Boating
Visitors have reported boating experiences, including using canoes and kayaks, although there is no drive-up access for launching boats onto the lake.Wildlife viewing
The park is known as one of America’s Top 10 Bird Watching Spots, offering opportunities to observe local bird species and other wildlife.Beach activities
Beach access is available with rocky and shale shores. Visitors note that the beach is not sandy and that it is better suited for walking than swimming.Cultural and Educational Programs
The 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.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing is noted as an available winter activity.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are practiced here, though facilities and rentals are not specified.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed; fish scrap disposal now prohibited within the park.
- Quiet hours enforcement noted as inconsistent in user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsSome sites, particularly bluff-side, are closed due to erosion concerns. Poison ivy and site flooding after heavy rain have been noted in user reviews.
Active alertsSites 11-21 are closed due to erosion concerns, with reevaluation planned for spring 2025.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 13.9 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
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
Hospital within 10 miles; exact details unavailable. Police station and ranger station contact number is 7167929214.
Good to know
Peak season datesEnd of June to end of August.
Trash and 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.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Lake Erie with limited water access due to rocky shoreline.
Common complaintsFrequent flooding mentioned in reviews, especially in sites like 91. Bathrooms are described as dated with inconsistent cleanliness. Noise complaints and rule enforcement issues are noted.
HostHosts have been noted as friendly and helpful in user reviews, often providing dog treats and assistance.
Campground Map
5838 Route 5, BROCTON, New York, 14716, United States
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.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.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Lake Erie State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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
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...
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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.
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...
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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...
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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...
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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.
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.
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.
Last updated August 10, 2025