Exploring Western NY and More: Our RV Adventure from Tennessee to New York and Indiana

 

Our Western New York RV trip was unforgettable—but that’s just part of the journey! Before reaching Chautauqua Lake KOA, we enjoyed stops at trusted campgrounds, top RV service centers, and fantastic eats along the way. You will find links to each of these locations in our Top Travel Spots section.

Indianapolis KOA Holiday – Overnight Comfort Near Indianapolis

Our first leg took us from home to Greenfield, IN—a favorite stop for us near Indianapolis. Situated about 10 miles east of downtown Indianapolis and just off I-70 (Exit 96), the Indianapolis KOA Holiday offers a convenient and well-amenitized base for family or RV stays. You will find large, level sites, many with patios, full hook-ups, and strong WiFi, which is a plus for travelers who want comfort.

Families will appreciate the on-site pool and water-play area, playgrounds, a dog park, and even a small horse corral—features that give the park a mini-resort feel. On the flip side, some campers report that signage and site-marking are confusing, the layout can be tight for larger rigs, and ambient highway noise from the nearby interstate is noticeable. In short: it’s a solid option for those who want easy access to Indianapolis + lots of amenities, though it may cost a little more and feel less rustic than some other campgrounds.

Elkhart, IN – RV Service and Local Flavor

From Greenfield, IN, we headed to Elkhart, IN—the “RV Capital of the World”—for a visit to the MorRyde Service Department.

MorRyde Service Department

A scheduled IS (Independent Suspension) inspection and wheel alignment at MorRyde gave us peace of mind about hitting the road. The staff was knowledgeable and courteous, making the maintenance stop a breeze. We arrived midday and set up in their overnight parking area. This comes with 50/30 amp hookups, and water is available. A word of advice: bring earplugs as trains run constantly near the facility, and those engineers love their horns. Click here for complete details.

 

Dining in Elkhart – Heinnies and Chubby Trout

Elkhart isn’t just about RVs—it’s a great town for food! For dinner, Heinnies is our perennial favorite, serving up hearty Midwestern classics. Head for the bar seating if the restaurant is busy. For lunch, we never miss a stop at Chubby Trout, renowned for its casual atmosphere and fresh seafood offerings. My favorite is the Fish Tacos with homemade chips.

 

Elkhart Campground – 25608 Co Rd 4, Elkhart, IN 46514

We wrapped up at MorRyde earlier than planned, which meant we had an unexpected day to spend before heading east. With a little extra time, we picked this RV park—and it was a pleasant surprise. At $45 a night for a full hook-up pull-through site, it made things easy and affordable. The layout is spacious, and those pull-through spots are super convenient for big rigs. Both the staff and the grounds impressed us—friendly folks and everything was kept nice and clean. Plus, if you’re interested in exploring or getting work done on your RV, the location couldn’t be better for the Elkhart area.

One thing to keep in mind: the sites are fairly close together, so it definitely feels like an “RV park” rather than a remote, woodsy campground. It’s functional and comfortable, but doesn’t offer the isolation or deep nature experience you’ll find at rustic spots. If you’re looking for a well-equipped base in Elkhart, this is a great pick. If you’re after peace and privacy, though, you might want to explore other campgrounds.

Back on the Road: Heading east with a Harvest Host stop.

This was going to be a leisurely trip east. We wanted a stop, leaving us about 3 hours or so out from Chautauqua Lake KOA. We chose this Harvest Host location based on previous reviews. It did not let us down.

Harvest Host – Vermillion Valley Vineyards – 11005 Gore Orphanage Rd, Wakeman, OH 44889

 

Vermillion Valley Vineyards is a hidden gem tucked into the rolling countryside — the kind of place that instantly makes you slow down and savor the moment. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a beautiful tasting room overlooking peaceful vineyard views and a cozy patio perfect for lingering over a glass. Their wines are thoughtfully crafted, offering a balance of local character and refined flavor — the reds are especially noteworthy, smooth and full-bodied without being heavy.

The staff are welcoming and knowledgeable, making each tasting feel personal rather than rushed. There are two RV parking spaces, both are big rig-friendly. We chose the parking lot with an eastern view of the vineyard. Whether you’re a casual wine lover or a devoted enthusiast, Vermillion Valley Vineyards delivers an experience that feels both authentic and memorable — a true Ohio wine country treasure.

 

Exploring Western NY: RV Adventures, Natural Wonders & Local Flavor

 

Planning our RV getaway through Western New York turned out to be one of our most memorable adventures. From lakeside camping and dramatic skywalks to local food and apple orchards, here’s how we made the most of our trip.

Chautauqua Lake KOA – The Perfect Home Base

Our journey began at the welcoming Chautauqua Lake KOA. This campground offered spacious RV sites, friendly staff, family activities, and easy access to the region’s best attractions.

This is a beautiful location near Chautauqua Lake with stunning views, a wide variety of accommodations from cabins to tent and RV sites, and plentiful activities such as hiking trails, a heated pool, mini golf, playgrounds, and dog parks. Many campers highlight the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the convenience of nearby attractions like the Chautauqua Institution and Midway State Park. The campground is praised for its cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and gated security, making it a peaceful retreat for families and groups. Check out our complete review by clicking our Best Of Review.

Must-See Sights in Western NY

Kinzua Skybridge

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience in northwestern Pennsylvania, the Kinzua Skywalk at Kinzua Bridge State Park deserves a top spot on your travel list. It’s where breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and a touch of engineering marvel all come together — and it’s one of those places that makes you stop, look around, and say “wow.”

The View You’ll Never Forget

The Skywalk extends 624 feet into the Kinzua Gorge and rises about 225 feet above the valley floor, offering some of the most spectacular views in Pennsylvania. Visit in early to mid-October and you’ll be treated to a sea of vibrant fall colors stretching across the Allegheny Mountains.

At the far end of the Skywalk, a glass-floor viewing area lets you look straight down into the gorge below — an exhilarating experience whether you’re an adrenaline seeker or just someone who enjoys seeing the world from a different perspective.

Planning Your Visit

• Location: 296 Viaduct Road, Mt. Jewett, PA 16735

• Best time to go: Late summer through fall for mild weather and spectacular foliage

• Admission: Free

• Visitor Center: Modern exhibits, restrooms, and a small gift shop

• Accessibility: Paved walkway from the visitor center to the Skywalk

🛑 Note: The Skywalk is undergoing phased restoration through 2027. It’s open during the 2025 fall season (Aug 8 – Oct 31) but closed at other times of the year.

Panama Rocks Scenic Park

Panama Rocks Scenic Park offers a compact yet surprisingly adventurous nature outing. Visitors hike a roughly one-mile loop through an ancient forest, alongside a half-mile ridge of massive quartz-conglomerate rock formations reaching up to about 60 feet high.

The experience blends gentle trail walking with some moderate scrambling into crevices, passageways, and small caves — making it appealing for families, nature lovers, and those looking for something a little more interesting than a flat park stroll. Reviewers note clean facilities, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Highlights:

• Very photogenic rock formations amid forest light and moss.

• A good “hour or two” visit, though you can linger longer. 

• Family-friendly with some off-trail exploration possible (though caution required).

• Additional activities available (camping/glamping, festivals) if you want more than the walk

Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park, often called the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is a standout destination in Western New York known for its striking gorge, three major waterfalls, and outstanding scenic beauty. See my complete review here. Visitors are treated to over 14,000 acres of dense woodland, dramatic cliffs reaching up to 600 feet, and 66 miles of hiking trails suitable for everyone from families to serious hikers.

The waterfalls—Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls—are the park’s main highlights, easily accessible by car or foot, with particularly breathtaking views at Middle Falls near the historic Glen Iris Inn. Letchworth has a well-maintained, spacious campground offering tent, trailer, and cabin sites, plus amenities like modern bathhouses, a camp store, playgrounds, picnic areas, a nature center, and even hot air ballooning. The park is rated highly for cleanliness and natural beauty, and is especially recommended for photography and family outings.

A unique feature is the Autism Nature Trail, a one-mile loop with sensory stations designed for a range of abilities. The William Pryor Letchworth Museum within the park features local history and Native American exhibits. Seasonal offerings range from whitewater rafting and kayaking to cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, ensuring year-round appeal.
Letchworth State Park receives glowing reviews for its vistas, trail system, and amenities. Pristine facilities, accessible trails, and a variety of recreation options help make it one of New York’s premier outdoor destinations. Advance campground reservations are strongly recommended, especially in peak season, due to high popularity and upcoming construction-related loop closures.

 

Food Finds: Buffalo & Whitter Apple Farm

 

Johnny’s Meat Market, Buffalo, NY

Our food adventure took us to Buffalo’s Johnny’s Meat Market, renowned for its fresh Italian sausage. This delicious find became a campfire favorite during our stay. Located at 1191 Hertel Avenue in Buffalo’s North Buffalo neighborhood, Johnny’s Meats has been serving the community since the mid-20th century.

It’s known as a full-service neighborhood butcher offering beef, pork, veal, lamb, and poultry complemented by homemade Italian sausage, deli cuts, and prepared meals. The shop emphasizes personalized service and old-school butcher-shop care, making it a local landmark on Hertel Avenue.

Whitter Apple Farm

A visit to Whitter Apple Farm rounded out our trip. We picked up Courtland and Mac apples, sipped fresh cider, and indulged in their famous crunchy top apple pie—an absolute must for anyone with a sweet tooth. Whittier Apple Farm is a charming, family-run orchard that captures the best of fall in every visit. The rows of apple trees are well-kept, the staff is friendly, and the cider and pies are worth the trip alone. It’s the perfect stop for apple picking, photo ops, or simply soaking in a crisp autumn afternoon. A wholesome, local gem that makes you appreciate the simple joys of harvest season.

Home Town Visit: Olean, NY, & Restaurants

Olean, NY, is a charming small city nestled in the rolling hills of western New York’s Southern Tier. Known for its friendly community and scenic surroundings, Olean offers a mix of local history, outdoor recreation, and small-town charm. Stroll along North Union Street to enjoy unique shops, cafés, and local eateries, or explore nearby parks and trails that showcase the beauty of the Allegheny foothills. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or just passing through, Olean provides a warm welcome and a true taste of upstate New York living.

Angee’s Italian Restaurant – 475 N Union St, Olean, NY 14760

For hungry travelers in search of classic Italian flavor, Angee’s Restaurant in Olean, NY, is a true find. Family-owned since 1948, this cozy local gem blends nostalgic charm with a lively, welcoming atmosphere—perfect for a satisfying meal after a day exploring Western New York.

Angee’s menu highlights the best of Italian-American comfort food, with favorites like house-made lasagna, hearty meatball sandwiches, and veal or chicken parmigiana generously topped with their signature sauce. Their pasta dishes come with fresh salad and famous home-baked rolls, and you can’t leave without trying a slice of homemade tiramisu or pie for dessert.

Travelers give high marks for the friendly staff who treat guests like family and the generous portions that often lead to a leftover-packed lunch for the road. Whether you’re making Olean a destination or just passing through, Angee’s is the kind of welcoming local spot that turns any journey into a culinary highlight.

Sprague’s Maple Farm – 1048 Portville-Obi Rd, Portville, NY 14770

Sprague’s Maple Farm in Portville, NY, offers a memorable dining experience centered on classic country cooking, with a special emphasis on dishes featuring real maple syrup produced on-site. The rustic atmosphere is warm and family-friendly, featuring a large gift shop, playground, sugar house tours, and picturesque grounds, making it popular for brunch outings and seasonal visits like Easter and Maple Weekends.

– Wide range of breakfast options served all day, including fluffy pancakes, omelettes, turkey sausage, and home-style potatoes.
– Farm-fresh maple syrup and maple products available for purchase, plus special menu items like maple salmon and turkey dinner with maple-seasoned stuffing..
– Friendly and efficient service, with quick seating even on busy days, and accommodating staff praised for attentiveness.
– Beautiful countryside setting with outdoor activities, wagon rides, a playground, and maple production tours.

Sprague’s is a local favorite for families and travelers, delivering comfort food and maple specialties in a scenic, welcoming setting, though peak times and service experiences may vary.

 

Why Western NY Should Be Your Next RV Destination

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or just love discovering new places in your RV, Western New York’s blend of adventure and relaxation makes it a top choice for your itinerary. We left with full hearts, satisfied appetites, and plenty of photos. If you’re planning your next adventure, consider Western NY—you won’t be disappointed!