Group Camp Entrance, Stony Brook, Dansville, NY

Introduction / Overview: Stony Brook's Secluded Group Camping Gem

For local New York residents planning a large gathering, family reunion, scouting event, or organizational retreat, the Group Camp Entrance at Stony Brook State Park in Dansville, NY, presents an outstanding and highly practical solution. Situated within the stunning natural landscape of Stony Brook State Park, this dedicated group camping area—often referred to as the Rogersville Camp—offers an exclusive, secluded experience for up to 60 occupants.

Unlike standard individual campsites, the Group Camp provides a centralized, private area ideal for fostering camaraderie and managing a large party. Reviewers consistently praise the space for being "gorgeous," with the "price being right" for such a large capacity. While secluded from the park's main family campground, it boasts direct and easy access to the park’s main trail system, including the spectacular Stony Brook Gorge and its famous waterfalls. This blend of remote privacy with immediate access to premier New York State Park attractions makes it a unique and highly desirable destination for local users across the Empire State.

The staff at Stony Brook State Park are known for being "quick and helpful," ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all campers. It truly is a location where groups can spend an "awesome weekend" immersed in the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region.

Location and Accessibility: Finger Lakes Beauty near Dansville

The Group Camp Entrance is located within the greater Stony Brook State Park, accessible via the park’s South Entrance. The mailing address is Stony Brook State Park, Dansville, NY 14437, USA. This places the campground just a few miles south of the charming Village of Dansville in Steuben County, nestled within the rolling hills of the Western Finger Lakes region.

Accessibility for New York travelers is straightforward. The park is easily reached via Interstate 390 (I-390). Travelers simply take Exit 4 and proceed south on Route 36 toward Dansville. The Group Camp's location near the campground area (often called the South Entrance) is a key advantage, providing seclusion while maintaining convenient access to essential services and activities within the park.

Its regional positioning is perfect for locals looking to explore Western New York’s natural wonders. The park sits within a short driving distance of other major New York State Park jewels, including the renowned Letchworth State Park (the 'Grand Canyon of the East'), as well as the beautiful Keuka Lake State Park and Watkins Glen State Park. The area offers a wealth of local attractions, including wineries, breweries, and antique shops, making it an excellent base for a longer, multi-day New York adventure.

Services Offered at the Group Camp

The Group Campsite is specifically designed to accommodate the logistical needs of large parties, offering several essential amenities included in the single nightly fee:

Exclusive Campsite Reservation: Reserving the group camping area ensures your party will be the only campers in that designated, remote section of the park.
Dedicated Campsite Furnishings: Plentiful picnic tables for group meals, multiple grills for cooking, and fire rings for campfires and s’mores are provided.
Modern Restroom Access: Clean, well-maintained flush toilets are available on-site and are cleaned daily, as noted by customer reviews.
Hot Shower Access: Full comfort stations featuring hot showers are located conveniently just a short walk away, across the bridge in the main campground area.
Vehicle Allocation: The nightly group campsite fee includes up to 10 vehicles allowed in the immediate camp area.
Ample Tent Space: The large, dedicated area provides generous space for setting up numerous tents to accommodate the maximum occupancy.

Features and Highlights

The features of the Stony Brook Group Camp center around its unique location and capacity, making it a favorite for New York locals:

Maximum Capacity of 60 Occupants: This high limit makes it uniquely suitable for large, organized groups, such as large family reunions or youth organizations.
Direct Gorge Trail Access: The main trail through the park runs right past the camp, granting immediate access to the Stony Brook gorge, waterfalls, and scenic water views.
Proximity to Stony Brook: The camp is situated right on Stony Brook itself, offering a beautiful natural setting and the sound of rushing water.
Nearby Playground: A nice playground is located just a short walk away, providing easy entertainment for children in the group.
Secluded Setting: Despite being part of the State Park, the group camp is described as being in a "remote area," offering a sense of seclusion and solidarity for the group.
Recreational Amenities: Campers also have access to the park’s other amenities, including tennis courts, baseball fields, and a stream-fed guarded swimming pool (seasonal and subject to availability).

Contact Information

New York residents can contact the park office directly for general information regarding the Group Camp Entrance and Stony Brook State Park operations. Reservations for the Group Campsite should be made well in advance, typically up to nine months ahead of time, through the official New York State Parks reservation system.

Campground Name: Group Camp Entrance, Stony Brook (Rogersville Camp)
Address: Stony Brook State Park, Dansville, NY 14437, USA
Main Park Phone: (585) 335-5530
Alternate Phone: +1 585-335-5530

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

The Group Camp Entrance at Stony Brook State Park is exceptionally suitable for New York locals for several compelling reasons. First, it solves the complex logistical challenge of finding a single, affordable, and scenic location to host a gathering of up to 60 people, all within the trusted framework of the New York State Park system. The reasonable nightly fee for the entire exclusive area is an economic advantage that can rarely be matched by private venues.

Second, the experience is quintessentially Upstate New York. It combines the rugged beauty of a deep gorge with accessible hiking, clean facilities, and proximity to the region’s key attractions—a perfect combination for active families, youth groups, and nature enthusiasts. The direct access to the Stony Brook Gorge means world-class New York natural beauty is literally steps away from the tent site.

Ultimately, local New Yorkers can rely on the quality and helpful staff noted in customer reviews, guaranteeing a high-value, memorable outdoor experience. For large groups prioritizing seclusion, amenities, and easy access to the Finger Lakes' majestic scenery, the Stony Brook Group Camp is the premier choice for camping in the region.