Camping Near Niagara Falls: Complete Guide to Campgrounds and RV Parks
Updated March 2026 · Local knowledge, no commissions
Camping near Niagara Falls is one of the most underrated ways to experience the region. While most visitors pay $250–$400/night for a hotel room a few blocks from the falls, campers settle in at sites ranging from full-service RV parks to shaded tent sites — all within 15–30 minutes of Horseshoe Falls — for a fraction of the cost. This guide covers every major campground near Niagara Falls, from the internationally known KOA to the Niagara Parks campgrounds right on the escarpment.
KOA Niagara Falls
The Niagara Falls KOA Holiday is the largest and most amenity-rich campground in the Niagara area. Located at 8625 Lundy's Lane, it sits approximately 5 km from Horseshoe Falls — a 10-minute drive or a scenic ride on the WEGO transit system, which stops at the KOA entrance.
Site Types and Rates (2026 estimates — confirm at koa.com)
| Site Type | Features | Approx. Rate/Night (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Sites | Level grass, fire pit, picnic table | $55–$85 |
| Full-Hookup RV | 30/50 amp electric, water, sewer | $90–$145 |
| Camping Cabin | Beds, A/C, mini fridge, outdoor fire ring | $120–$185 |
| Deluxe Cabin | Private bathroom, kitchen, full beds | $180–$280 |
KOA Amenities
- Outdoor heated pool and splash pad
- Camp store with groceries, ice, firewood, camping supplies
- Propane filling station
- Mini golf, jumping pillow, bicycle rentals
- WEGO Niagara transit stop at the entrance (access to falls, Clifton Hill, all attractions)
- Wi-Fi throughout (speed varies by site location)
- Seasonal programming: pancake breakfasts, marshmallow roasts, ice cream socials
Booking: KOA Niagara Falls books up extremely fast for summer weekends. Reservations open in January for the upcoming summer — book immediately if you want a July or August weekend. Mid-week and September stays are far easier to book.
Niagara Parks Campground — Niagara Glen
The Niagara Parks Campground at Niagara Glen is the most scenically located campground in the region, situated directly above the Niagara Gorge near the town of Queenston. It's operated by the Niagara Parks Commission and offers a very different experience from the KOA — quieter, more natural, and with direct access to the gorge hiking trails.
Niagara Glen Campground Details
- Location: 3050 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls (near Queenston, approximately 15 km north of Horseshoe Falls)
- Sites: Mix of unserviced tent sites and electrical-only sites (15/30 amp)
- Rates: Unserviced approximately $40–$55/night; electrical $55–$75/night (confirm at niagaraparks.com)
- Season: Mid-May through mid-October (weather dependent)
- Facilities: Washrooms, showers, firewood sales, picnic tables, fire pits
- Trails: Direct trailhead access to the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve — 4 km of gorge trails with river views
- WEGO access: The WEGO Green Line runs along the Niagara Parkway — stops accessible from the campground provide transport to the falls and attractions
Reservations through Ontario Parks reservation system (ontarioparks.com). Book early — sites at Niagara Glen fill quickly in July and August, and the electrical sites go first.
Queenston Heights Campground (Niagara Parks)
The Queenston Heights Campground sits atop the Niagara Escarpment at Queenston Heights Park — the site of the famous Battle of Queenston Heights (1812). The elevation provides excellent views over the Niagara River valley and Lake Ontario.
- Location: 14184 Niagara Parkway, Queenston
- Sites: Unserviced and serviced (electrical) tent/RV sites
- Rates: $40–$80/night depending on site type and season
- Highlights: Walk to Brock's Monument, Queenston Heights Restaurant (seasonal), direct access to the Bruce Trail
- Book through: niagaraparks.com or via phone
Other Campgrounds Within 30 Minutes
Sherkston Shores Resort (Port Colborne)
Located approximately 30 minutes from Niagara Falls near Port Colborne, Sherkston Shores is a large private resort on Lake Erie with a sandy beach. It's more of a destination resort than a Niagara Falls basecamp, but it's a good option for families who want lake swimming with day trips to the falls.
- Sites range from seasonal to overnight tent and RV
- Private beach on Lake Erie
- Rates start around $65/night for basic sites in peak season
Scott's Butternut Farm & Campground (Pelham)
A smaller, quieter family-run campground in the Niagara Region, located about 20 minutes from the falls. Good option for tent campers who want less crowds and a more authentic rural Ontario experience. Rates typically $35–$55/night.
Camping Tips for Niagara Falls
- Book well ahead: Summer weekends at KOA and Niagara Parks campgrounds book out months in advance. Mid-week and shoulder season (May, September) are far easier to access.
- Use WEGO transit: The WEGO bus system connects campgrounds on the Niagara Parkway to the falls, Clifton Hill, and other attractions — $12/day for unlimited rides. No need to move your vehicle once you're set up.
- Bring exact change for firewood: Campground firewood sales often operate on honour-system boxes. $8–$10 per bundle is the typical rate at Niagara Parks sites.
- Mosquitoes: The gorge and wooded areas near the Niagara River have a significant mosquito population in June and July. Pack proper repellent and a screen tent if you plan to eat outdoors in the evenings.
- Black bears: Not a concern in this region. The Niagara Peninsula is urbanised enough that bear encounters at campgrounds are essentially unheard of.
Best value tip: A mid-week stay at the Niagara Glen campground in early September gives you one of the best Niagara experiences at any price point — gorge trails nearly empty, warm days, cool evenings, and a 15-minute drive to the falls with no lines.
Back to niagarafallsguide.ca for full guides to hotels, restaurants, attractions, and tours in the Niagara Falls region.