Kanakadea Recreation Area

For residents of the Empire State looking for a serene outdoor escape, the Kanakadea Recreation Area, also commonly known as Kanakadea Park, offers a refreshing retreat in the heart of Steuben County. Located near Hornell, New York, this recreation area is a hidden gem for local families and outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience the beauty of the Southern Tier without a long-distance haul. Managed by the Steuben County Department of Public Works in cooperation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the park surrounds the picturesque 110-acre Almond Lake. It provides a peaceful setting where the rolling green hills of the Finger Lakes region meet the tranquil waters of a well-maintained reservoir.

The atmosphere at Kanakadea is professionally maintained yet remains friendly and inviting, making it a staple for those who value clean facilities and a quiet environment. As a local favorite, it is often described by visitors as a "great little place to stay" that offers exactly what is needed for a quick getaway. Whether you are arriving with a full RV setup or a simple tent, the campground emphasizes a back-to-basics connection with nature while providing enough modern amenities to ensure comfort. Its reputation as a community-oriented space makes it an ideal spot for weekend trips, family reunions, or even as a base camp for hikers exploring the legendary Finger Lakes Trail which conveniently winds through the park property.

Location and accessibility are major highlights for New York campers choosing Kanakadea Recreation Area. Situated on County Route 66 in Hornell, NY 14843, the park is easily reached via State Routes 17, 21, and 36. Its proximity to the city of Hornell means that while you feel immersed in the woods, you are only minutes away from local conveniences such as grocery stores, gas stations, and dining options. This makes it particularly attractive for local residents who want to maximize their relaxation time rather than spending hours on the road.

The facility is designed with inclusivity in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible parking lot to ensure that guests with mobility needs can easily access the main recreation areas. On-site parking is plentiful and well-organized, with a strict limit of two vehicles per site to maintain a spacious and uncluttered environment for everyone. The park operates on a seasonal basis, typically opening its gates in mid-April and welcoming campers through the beginning of December. For those planning a visit, it is worth noting that while the campground is accessible, the unpaved public access roads in the nearby state forest areas are not plowed in winter, so the late spring through autumn months are the prime time for exploration.

• Overnight camping options including 40 electric sites and 30 non-electric sites for traditional tenting.
• Two cozy cabin rentals equipped with electricity and lighting for those seeking a more structured stay.
• Full access to clean public restrooms and hot shower facilities for all registered campers.
• Sanitary dumping station available on-site (with a small fee for non-campers) for RV maintenance.
• Four large picnic pavilions with grills, ideal for hosting family gatherings or community events.
• Trailer boat launches provided for easy access to Almond Lake (note that gas-powered motors are prohibited).
• Seasonal water availability from April to October to service the campground loops.
• Direct access to a network of hiking trails, including a spur that connects directly to the Finger Lakes Trail.

• Lakeside views and recreation on the 110-acre Almond Lake, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
• Highly rated kid-friendly environment featuring a playground, basketball court, and sand volleyball court.
• Dog-friendly policies that allow you to bring your leashed pets along for the adventure (proof of rabies inoculation required).
• Specialized sports facilities including a baseball/softball diamond and horseshoe pits for group recreation.
• Spectacular scenic vistas and an overlook deck providing panoramic views of the dam and surrounding valley.
• Affordable rate schedules with a 10% discount offered to senior citizens (62+) and veterans.
• Designated quiet hours from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM to ensure a peaceful night's sleep for all guests.
• Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, with frequent sightings of deer and local bird species near the campsites.

Getting in touch with the Kanakadea Recreation Area staff is simple for those looking to secure a spot for the upcoming season. While the park is a public facility, reservations are highly recommended, especially for the electric sites and cabins which tend to book up quickly during summer weekends. The friendly park staff is available during office hours to assist with site selection and provide updates on park conditions.

Address: County Route 66 (Webbs Crossing Road), Hornell, NY 14843, USA

For Campsite Reservations, call: (607) 590-0535

General Park Information: (607) 324-0590 or (607) 664-2474

What makes Kanakadea Recreation Area worth choosing over other options in the region is its exceptional balance of simplicity and activity. For New York families, the "Good for Kids" designation isn't just a label—it is reflected in the wide-open spaces, the safe playground equipment, and the variety of ball courts that keep children engaged and active. Parents can relax at their site knowing there is plenty of room for the kids to play within a community-focused environment. The cleanliness of the restrooms and the overall upkeep of the grounds are frequently praised by regulars, who appreciate the dedication of the Steuben County Parks Division.

Additionally, the "no gas motors" rule on the lake is a significant draw for those seeking true tranquility. It ensures that your afternoon of kayaking or fishing isn't interrupted by the noise and fumes of speedboats, creating a glass-like surface on the water that is perfect for photography and nature watching. Whether you are a hiker looking to knock out a few miles on the Finger Lakes Trail or a local resident needing a "quick getaway" that is "not far from home," Kanakadea provides a high-quality, low-stress experience. Choosing this recreation area means supporting a local county resource while enjoying some of the finest natural landscapes that the Hornell area has to offer.

Would you like me to help you find specific trail maps for the Finger Lakes Trail section near Hornell or information on local fishing regulations for Almond Lake?