How to Visit Lake Erie State Park in New York

Travel along Route 5 in western New York between the towns of Fredonia and Westfield and nestled along the southern shore of Lake Erie lies one of the state’s finest parks, Lake Erie State Park. This traditional style recreational area provides lots of outdoor fun for summer visitors as well as year round residents of Chautauqua County. Find out what Lake Erie State Park has to offer and plan your next visit to this part of New York State.

Things You'll Need

• Picnic
• Frisbee
• Volleyball equipment
• Basketball and baseball equipment
• Camping gear
• Beach gear
• Binoculars or camera
• Skis or snowshoes

Instructions

1. Bring the whole family for a day at the park and plan an old fashioned picnic. The park has many picnic tables with scenic views, outdoor grills and plenty of space for the kids to play Frisbee, a beach volleyball court, a basketball net and a small baseball diamond.

2. Do some serious hiking or take a leisurely walk down any one of the nature and hiking trails found at Lake Erie State Park. Trail entrances are near the picnic area entrance, off the campground area and along the main roadway near the Park entrance.

3. 

   Rent a cabin for a week and spend a relaxing summer vacation along the shores of Lake Erie. The Park offers ten rental cabins, with wood fireplaces, electricity, a stove and refrigerator that sleep four to six people. The cabins are located in one specific area across from the campground with incredible Lake Erie views. Make reservations in advance for busy summer and holiday weeks.

4. Spend a warm summer day swimming at the beach, relaxing in the sun and reading a good book. The swimming area has shallow water that stays warm and is perfect for small children.

5. 

   Take the kids to the beach for the day and comb the ¾-mile Lake Erie State Park shoreline for unique pieces of driftwood, beach glass, rocks and stones and seashells.

6. Go camping for a weekend or longer at Lake Erie State Park in one of the 97 campsites available for use. The park offers 20 sites with electric hookups for RVs, trailers, and a dump station for common use. Shower areas are also available for campers.

7. 

   Burn off some excess energy after dinner and take the kids to the playground located in the picnic area and in the camping area.

8. 

   Enjoy a romantic evening on the beach or at one of the picnic tables looking over the cliffs watching the beautiful sunsets seen above the waters of Lake Erie.

9. Bring along your binoculars and a camera during spring and fall for a chance to view migratory birds passing through the park and following the shorelines north to Canada or south to warmer climates.

10. 

    Plan your next family party or reunion at Lake Erie State Park and reserve the large picnic pavilion or the gazebo located on the cliffs overlooking the lake.

11. Visit nearby attractions if staying at Lake Erie State Park for an extended period. See the Chautauqua Institution, go shopping in Erie, Pennsylvania, follow the wine trail to local wineries or visit the Amish of Chautauqua County.

12. Cross country ski or snowshoe the hiking trails of Lake Erie State Park during the winter months while the beach and camping areas are closed.

Tips & Warnings

• Visit the Park during May through October or on weekends during the off season.

• Expect to pay a vehicle fee at the entrance.

• Pay attention to beach alerts and closings.

• Bring warm clothes for cool Lake Erie nights.

• Leave firewood at home and use New York State wood for your campfires.

• Heed the warnings for sudden Lake Erie storms in summer and winter.

Resources

• Visit the Chautauqua Institute
• Check out Erie, Pennsylvania