Allegany State Park

For outdoor enthusiasts and families throughout the New York region, Allegany State Park stands as a premier destination for recreation and natural beauty. Spanning over 65,000 acres, it is the largest state park in the New York state system, often referred to as the "Wilderness Playground of Western New York." Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, this expansive park offers a diverse landscape of forested valleys, meadows, and pristine lakes. It is a place where the air is fresher, the stars are brighter, and the connection to nature is immediate. Whether you are looking for a weekend tent stay or a cozy week in a winterized cabin, Allegany provides an escape that has been a "favorite destination campground" for generations of local travelers.

The park is divided into two main developed areas: the Red House Area and the Quaker Area. The Red House Area is particularly famous for its historic Tudor-style Administration Building and its centralized location around the scenic Red House Lake. This part of the park blends historic charm with modern amenities, making it highly accessible for first-time campers while still offering the ruggedness sought by seasoned explorers. With a history that stretches back to the early 20th century, the park maintains a sense of timelessness that invites visitors to slow down and enjoy the rolling hills and deep hardwood forests that define this unique un-glaciated terrain of the Southern Tier.

Allegany State Park is remarkably accessible for residents across the state and neighboring regions. The primary address for the Red House entrance is near 2373 ASP, Salamanca, NY 14779. It is conveniently situated off I-86 (the Southern Tier Expressway), making it a straightforward drive for visitors coming from Buffalo, Rochester, or even the New York City metropolitan area. The park's infrastructure is designed to accommodate various types of travelers, from small passenger cars to large recreational vehicles. The roads are well-maintained, providing easy access to the numerous cabin trails and campsite loops scattered throughout the valleys.

• Convenient entry via Exits 19 and 20 from I-86 for the Red House Area.
• Wheelchair accessible parking lots are available at major hubs like the Administration Building and the swimming beach.
• On-site parking is provided at all campsites and cabin trails to ensure your gear is always within reach.
• Paved multi-use paths allow for easy movement between the lake, the general store, and the rental offices.

The services offered at Allegany State Park are designed to make your stay as comfortable as possible while preserving the rustic nature of the environment. From essential utilities to recreational rentals, the park provides a comprehensive support system for its guests. The following services are available to enhance your camping experience:

• A wide variety of lodging options, including hundreds of tent and trailer sites, rustic cabins, and full-service cottages.
• RV camping facilities with electrical hookups at designated sites in both the Red House and Quaker areas.
• Seasonal rentals for rowboats, paddleboats, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards at the lake boat houses.
• Bicycle rentals for exploring the miles of paved and mountain bike trails.
• On-site dining at the Red House Restaurant, featuring a patio with stunning lake views and a diverse menu including breakfast buffets.
• Camp stores and gift shops stocked with ice, firewood, bait, fishing supplies, and outdoor gear.
• Professional naturalist programs and guided tours through the park's museum and natural history exhibits.
• Winterized facilities including 150 cabins available for year-round use and groomed trails for cross-country skiing.

What sets Allegany State Park apart are the specific features and highlights that make every visit a new adventure. The park is a four-season destination, offering unique attractions whether you are visiting during the peak of summer or the quiet of winter. Key highlights include:

• The iconic Red House Administration Building, a mock-Tudor masterpiece that houses a museum and regional headquarters.
• A 3.1-mile paved loop trail around Red House Lake, perfect for easy walking, running, or cycling.
• Over 80 miles of hiking trails, including the famous Bear Caves, Thunder Rocks, and the Summit Fire Tower.
• Two sandy swimming beaches patrolled by lifeguards during the summer season.
• Exceptional fishing opportunities in three lakes and numerous streams stocked with trout and bass.
• The Art Roscoe Ski Touring Area, renowned as one of the best cross-country ski trail systems in the Northeast.
• Clean and frequently maintained restroom and shower facilities located throughout the campground loops.
• Abundant wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of deer, black bears, bald eagles, and ospreys.
• Modern playgrounds equipped with zip lines and climbing structures that are great for kids.

For planning your trip or checking current park alerts, you can reach the administration directly. Reservations for campsites and cabins can be made online through the New York State Park booking system, but for specific inquiries, the following contact info is available:

Address: 25R3+JP, Red House, NY 14779, USA (Main Red House Area entrance)

Phone: (716) 354-9121 (Red House Administration)

When deciding where to book your next New York getaway, Allegany State Park is worth choosing because it offers the perfect balance between scale and intimacy. You can spend your day lost in the vastness of 65,000 acres of forest and then return to a well-maintained cabin for a comfortable night’s rest. It is a "social" campground where families meet year after year, yet it is large enough to find deep solitude if that is what you seek. The sheer variety of activities—from ice fishing in the winter to paddleboarding in the summer—ensures that there is never a dull moment.

Furthermore, the park's commitment to accessibility and cleanliness makes it a reliable choice for families. Parents appreciate the "good for kids" atmosphere, where modern playgrounds and educational nature programs keep children engaged with the world around them. The well-shaded sites offer privacy, while the clean bathhouses provide the necessary comforts of home. Whether you are coming to witness the breathtaking fall foliage or to climb boulders at Thunder Rocks, Allegany State Park provides a high-quality, authentic outdoor experience that remains one of the best values in the state. It is truly a place where lasting memories are made under the canopy of the New York woods.