Allegeny State Park - Redhouse Loop Campground

camping near allegany state park

For New Yorkers, the call of the wild often leads to our magnificent state parks, and among them, Allegany State Park stands out as a true gem. As the largest state park in New York, it offers an expansive natural playground, a world away from the city bustle. Within this vast wilderness lies the Redhouse Loop Campground, a key component of the Red House Area. This article aims to provide a comprehensive and engaging guide to Allegany State Park - Redhouse Loop Campground, highlighting why it's a fantastic destination for locals seeking outdoor adventure, relaxation, and a genuine connection with nature in Western New York.

Allegany State Park, spanning over 65,000 acres, is a diverse landscape of mature forests, open fields, and numerous lakes and streams. It's a year-round destination, offering everything from summer camping and water activities to winter sports like snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. The park is divided into two main developed areas: Red House and Quaker, each with its own unique charm and facilities. The Redhouse Loop Campground is specifically situated within the Red House Area, known for its historic Tudor-style Administration Building, Red House Lake, and a variety of recreational opportunities centered around it.

While a review notes some issues with the campsites themselves – "No water anywhere, no restrooms, sites are not level" and a cost of "nearly $50 to overnight" – it's crucial for prospective campers to understand the full context of a state park campground. New York State Parks offer a range of camping experiences, from primitive sites to full hook-up RV spots, and pricing varies accordingly. Allegany State Park indeed offers diverse lodging options, including cabins and cottages with more amenities, alongside its campsites. The "flagship" status of some New York State Parks can also influence pricing, reflecting the breadth of activities and facilities available within the larger park system. A more recent look at New York State Parks camping fees suggests campsites at Allegany can range from $19-$31/night, plus additional fees for non-NYS residents or amenities like electricity. Understanding that a state park's allure extends beyond just the individual campsite, encompassing the entire natural area and its extensive recreational offerings, is key to appreciating places like Redhouse Loop.

Allegany State Park - Redhouse Loop Campground is located at 145-139 English Stoddard Rd, Salamanca, NY 14779, USA. This places it in Cattaraugus County, in the southwestern part of New York State, just north of the Allegheny National Forest in Pennsylvania. Its position makes it a prime getaway for New Yorkers residing in the western and central parts of the state, as well as those looking for a longer road trip from other regions.

Accessibility to Allegany State Park is generally good. It can be reached from the south via the Interstate Parkway from Bradford, Pennsylvania, or from New York Interstate I-86, via exit 18. This connectivity makes it relatively straightforward to drive to. Once within the park, visitors will find a network of roads, though some areas may have unpaved sections, requiring suitable vehicle preparedness. The Red House Area, where the campground is located, is well-signposted and includes the park's main Administration Building. For day visitors, a vehicle entrance fee of $7 is collected during peak seasons. The geographic advantage of being close to the Kinzua Reservoir and other local attractions, including nearby cannabis shops and inexpensive gas on the Seneca Nation reservation (as one review humorously points out), adds to the unique appeal and convenience for local users.

Allegany State Park, as a whole, offers a wide array of services and amenities that extend beyond just the Redhouse Loop Campground itself. While a reviewer specifically mentioned a lack of water and restrooms directly at their campsite, it's important to differentiate between individual campsite features and the park's overall offerings. According to New York State Parks official information and other sources, the Red House Area provides:

• Campsites: Accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs, with various options including sites with electric hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp) and pull-through driveways. While individual sites may vary, the park does offer sites with amenities.
• Restroom and Shower Facilities: The Red House area has bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers, essential for campers. These are typically located within camping loops or centrally.
• Water Spigots: Water spigots are located around camping loops for campers to share, for filling up tanks.
• Boat and Bike Rentals: Available at Red House Lake, allowing visitors to enjoy the water and paved bike paths.
• Sandy Beach: A designated swimming area at Red House Lake, staffed by lifeguards during peak season.
• Dump Station: Available for RV campers to dispose of wastewater.
• Gift Shop and Restaurant: Located in the Administration Building, offering convenience and dining options.
• Natural History Museum: Also within the Administration Building, providing educational opportunities about the park's wildlife.

It is crucial for campers to confirm the specific amenities available at their reserved campsite and to understand that while a site might not have direct water hookups or a private restroom, these facilities are generally available within the broader campground loop or Red House Area.

Allegany State Park - Redhouse Loop Campground, as part of the larger Allegany State Park, offers numerous highlights that make it a compelling destination for New Yorkers:

• Extensive Recreational Opportunities: With 65,000 acres, the park is a hub for hiking (over 90 miles of trails, including sections of the North Country Trail), biking (5 miles of paved paths around Red House Lake), fishing (on Red House Lake, Quaker Lake, and access to Kinzua Reservoir), boating, swimming, and various winter activities.
• Scenic Beauty: The park boasts mature forests, rolling hills, meadows, streams, and lakes, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures and wildlife viewing (including over 200 bird species).
• Diverse Lodging Options: Beyond the tent and RV campsites, the park offers cabins and fully-equipped cottages (some year-round), as well as group camps, catering to a wide range of preferences and group sizes.
• Accessibility to Attractions: Proximity to Kinzua Reservoir for fishing and other water activities is a significant draw. The park also features points of interest like Stone Tower, Summit Fire Tower, and Bridal Falls.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Playgrounds, picnic areas, and recreational fields (softball, tennis, horseshoes, volleyball) contribute to a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Year-Round Appeal: While camping seasons vary, select cabins and cottages are available year-round, allowing visitors to enjoy winter sports and the beauty of the park in all seasons.
• "One of the Better State Parks": As noted by a reviewer, many consider Allegany to be a top-tier New York State Park due to its extensive offerings and natural beauty.

As a New York State Park, Allegany State Park - Redhouse Loop Campground's pricing and offerings are standardized rather than subject to frequent "promotions" in a commercial sense. However, certain aspects act as ongoing values or "offers":

• Affordable Entry: The general vehicle entrance fee of $7 (collected during specific periods) provides access to the entire park's vast amenities for day use.
• Camping Rates: Campsites generally range from $19 to $31 per night, offering a relatively affordable way to stay overnight in a natural setting. (Note: A $5 nightly fee applies for non-NYS residents).
• Reservation System: While not a promotion, the ability to reserve campsites up to nine months in advance via ReserveAmerica.com or phone ensures planning convenience, especially during peak seasons. Same-day reservations are also possible until 3 p.m.
• One-Night Stays: If making a reservation within 3 days of arrival, a one-night stay can be booked online or through the Call Center, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.

New Yorkers should always check the official New York State Parks website for the most current fee schedules, reservation policies, and any specific alerts or updates regarding park conditions.

For specific inquiries about Allegany State Park - Redhouse Loop Campground and the Red House Area, you can use the following contact information:

Address: 145-139 English Stoddard Rd, Salamanca, NY 14779, USA

Allegany State Park - Red House Area Phone: (716) 354-9121

General Allegany State Park Information: (716) 354-9101

New York State Parks Reservation System (ReserveAmerica): 1-800-456-2267

Official Website: parks.ny.gov/parks/alleganyredhouse

It is always advisable to consult the official website and contact the park directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information, especially regarding campsite availability, specific amenities at individual sites, and any park regulations (e.g., bear notices, firewood policies, pet rules).

Allegany State Park - Redhouse Loop Campground, as a vital part of New York's largest state park, is exceptionally suitable for locals across the state. Its expansive size and diverse landscape offer something for every type of outdoor enthusiast, from the casual day-hiker to the avid multi-sport adventurer. For New Yorkers seeking a true escape into nature, Allegany provides a robust infrastructure for recreation that is unmatched in many other areas.

While a previous review noted some campsite limitations like unlevel sites or lack of direct water/restrooms, the broader context of the Red House Area and Allegany State Park reveals ample facilities, including maintained bathhouses with hot showers and water spigots within loops. This highlights the importance of understanding what a state park campground provides – access to vast natural resources and a range of shared amenities – rather than expecting private hookups at every individual primitive site. The sheer number of activities available, from boating and fishing on Red House Lake to extensive hiking and biking trails, ensures that visitors will have plenty to do.

Furthermore, the accessibility of the park from various parts of New York, combined with its relatively affordable camping fees, makes it an excellent value proposition for local families and individuals. The proximity to unique local features like the Kinzua Reservoir and nearby commercial areas adds a layer of convenience without detracting from the park's natural appeal. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat, an active outdoor adventure, or a family-friendly camping experience, Allegany State Park - Redhouse Loop Campground offers a quintessential New York outdoor experience that continues to be a cherished destination for residents.

Allegeny State Park - Redhouse Loop Campground

145-139 English Stoddard Rd, Salamanca, NY 14779, USA