Niagara Falls State Park, New York
Everything the RV Renter Needs to Know
Everything the RV Renter Needs to Know
The thunderous rumble of the Niagara Falls has long been a source of awe and wonder in human history. Actually consisting of three separate waterfalls (American, Bridal Veil, Canadian), Niagara Falls sees hundreds of thousands of gallons of water cascade over its rocky cliffs every second, heading on their way to the Great Lakes. The falls were originally a source of spiritual reflection and appreciation for the power of nature. Later, in the early 1900s, however, the falls began to attract daredevils and showmen looking to survive rides in a barrel or tightrope walk over them.
Today, the Niagara Falls are protected as a state park and are one of the most visited natural attractions in the country. The surrounding town has become an ultimate tourist destination that offers plenty of modern entertainment for the whole family. Although it has changed drastically over the years, the Niagara Falls have always been a spectacle worth seeing.
The ability to walk so closely to falls of this size and force is a truly rare and special opportunity. Luckily for visitors, the state of New York keeps the infrastructure of the platforms and trails in excellent and safe condition for year-round enjoyment of unparalleled viewing pleasure.
Most of the hikes begin at the Niagara Gorge Trailhead Center where you can view trail maps and features. The Great Gorge Scenic Overlook and Upper Great Gorge Hikes offer awesome views of the park and are doable for beginners. If you’re looking for something more challenging, head to the Whirlpool Rapids Adventure Hike for some extreme boulder hopping.
Learn what makes the falls special at the Discovery Center. Here, you’ll find numerous displays and exhibits that explain the geology and the history of Niagara. A unique 180-degree widescreen theater also screens short films about the falls that immerse you in the imagery and makes you feel like you’re flying.
The Discovery Center is also great for children. A hands-on fossil exhibit and rock-climbing wall will keep them engaged and interested during their visit. This can be a great stop for parents in the hot summer months to get a little air conditioning while the kiddos run around.
There’s a good chance you’ve heard of the park’s flagship attraction. The Maid of the Mist has been providing visitors with boat rides to the base of the falls for more than 150 years; don’t worry, the boat is not the original. There is nothing like standing at the base of the nearly 200-foot falls as they crash down right before you—showering you with mist.
The Maid of the Mist typically runs from May to November. Although you should plan on getting a little wet when you reach the falls, you will be provided with a commemorative rain poncho to minimize the chance you’ll get soaked. It will be so worth it you won’t even care, though.
Not exactly a ‘cave’ in the geological sense, the Cave of the Winds is a special area open to visitors to stand extremely close to the base of Bridal Veil Falls and let their power ‘wash’ over them. The force of the waterfall generates tropical storm grade winds, so be careful as you navigate the stairs and observation deck. Visitors often mention how small they feel when gazing up from their vantage point at Cave of the Winds; it’s certainly a unique way to appreciate them.
Your Cave of the Winds experience also includes some history about how Nikola Tesla (the namesake for Tesla, Inc.) used the falls to create new forms of energy. You’ll also be able to view old photos of the falls before industry and tourism really began to take foot. The Cave of the Winds tour is only available May through October for your safety and comfort.
It would make sense to harness the power of the river and massive falls for energy purposes, right? Well, that’s exactly what was done in the early 1900s at the Schoellkopf Power Plant. The largest hydroelectric power plant in the world at the time it was built, the facility is perched atop Niagara Gorge and faithfully served the energy needs of regional residents until a major portion unfortunately collapsed in 1956.
You can reach the ruins via the Gorge Trail or a restored elevator within the old plant, itself. Stroll around the grounds and look up at was once the most impressive energy-producing structure in our nation’s history.
Your closest option is Niagara Falls Campground and Lodging at just a 14-minute drive away. You’ll have full hookup access at your campsite and Wi-Fi. Apart from the swimming pool, there aren’t a lot of amenities and the park is fairly no-frills. Its primary advantage is its close proximity to the falls. Be aware that this does mean that it can get very busy during peak months in the summer, however. Another advantage is that you’ll be near all of the restaurants, shopping, etc. in town.
About 13 miles to the east, the AA Royal Motel and Campground in North Tonawanda is another close option. The lots are fairly wooded with grassy spaces. Large pull-through sites accommodate even the biggest rigs and have full hookup capabilities. There are also shower and laundry facilities on site for your convenience.
Looking for luxury and endless family fun at your campground? Branches of Niagara is the ticket. Sure, they have massive pull-through sites available with full hookup access, but the activities and amenities are truly awesome. Go swimming at the pool or beach, fish at the lake, play mini golf, give the zipline a try, get the group together for laser tag, or attend a wildlife show. Believe it or not, there’s so much more than that. Definitely check it out.
Only seven miles south of the falls on Grand Island, this KOA campground has tons of amenities and recreational activities to keep the whole family happy and comfortable. Enjoy the heated pool, paddle boats, catch and release fishing, bingo, and more. You’ll have plenty of full hookup sites to choose from with 50-amp electrical service.
Also just seven miles from the falls, the Cinderella Campground has more of a ‘mom and pop’ feel to it. Choose from either 30- or 50-amp electrical service at your full hookup site. Most sites are nicely landscaped with trees and greenery. Being located on Grand Island, you’ll have quick access to a variety of restaurants, parks, and the Grand Island Fun Center amusement park.
Don’t want to stray from all the action? No worries. Niagara Falls State Park features five different restaurants on site. The Top of the Falls Restaurant offers an awesome dining view and locally sourced ingredients from New York. There’s also a coffee shop, snack bar, and a couple of cafés available for grabbing a quick sandwich, salad, or slice of pizza.
If you can name it, you can find it around Niagara Falls. Italian, American, Mexican, Chinese, BBQ, steakhouses, bistros, cafés, bars, etc. The hundreds of restaurants also vary widely in price and luxury. Grab a sandwich to go from a café or sit down at a white linen-lined table for a waterside view over a five-course meal. Whatever you’re in the mood for, it’s probably an option.
No matter where you stay, you will be mesmerized by the power and beauty of the Niagara Falls. Give your family the gift of these amazing memories by putting the falls near the top of your RV road trip list.