Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area
RV Guide
Introduction
Mount Morris Dam and Recreation area is both a large flood control project and a public park located in Livingston County, New York. Built by the US Army Corps of Engineers in the late 1940s to reduce flooding on the lower Genesee River, Mount Morris Dam still provides flood protection along the Genesee River Valley from Mount Morris to downtown Rochester.
Located at the northern end of Letchworth State Park, the Dam and Recreation Area overlooks Letchworth Canyon and offers a variety of outdoor activities. During a visit, you can hike, bike, look for wildlife, and enjoy a ranger-guided tour. When there's snow, you can go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. After some outdoor fun, you can take in views from scenic overlooks and relax with a picnic lunch. A Visitor Center is available so that you can learn more about the Dam and Recreation Area.
Regardless of what you choose to do, you will be able to experience the outdoor beauty of the Dam and its surrounding area, making it a perfect place to visit.
RV Rentals in Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area
Transportation
Driving
From Rochester, take I490 E for 2.8 miles (4.5 km). Use the right two lanes to take exit 21 in order to merge onto I-590 S, continuing for 4.3 miles (6.9 km). Remain in one of the right two lanes and merge onto I-390 S toward Corning. Proceed for 32.1 miles (51.65 km) to exit 7 for NY-408 toward NY-63/Mt Morris/Letchworth Park. Continue on NY-408 S; take Chapel St and Sand Hill Rd to Mt Morris Dam.
The roads are generally well maintained, and you shouldn't have too many issues navigating them even in a larger rig. However, be aware that the winters can be snowy, and you should always drive according to the conditions. Carry snow chains and take your time when the weather is icy.
Parking
Parking is available at Mount Morris Dam..
Public Transportation
There is no public transportation available to Mount Morris Dam.
Campgrounds and parking in Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area
Campsites in Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area
Reservations camping
Camp at Letchworth State Park
Home to 257 campsites, Letchworth State Park is an excellent option for camping when planning to visit Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area. Showers and bathrooms are available at the campground, ensuring you can clean up easily after a fun day of outdoor adventure. Dumping stations are available at the campground as well. Sites offer electric hook-ups and can accommodate RVs and trailers that are up to 50 feet in lengths. Pets are allowed at designated sites. Choose to camp at Letchworth State Park and enjoy its surrounding beauty.
Hamlin Beach State Park
Hamlin Beach State Park is an excellent option for camping (as well as exploring) during a trip to Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area. The park offers clear water and sandy beaches and is home to 264 campsites. Located on Lake Ontario’s south shore, sites can accommodate RV’s and trailers up to 40 feet in length and offer electric hookups. Boating is popular at the park, and a car-top boat launch site is available. The campground includes showers, restrooms, laundry facilities, a playground, and running water. You will have all that you need for adventure (and a rest afterward) during a stay at Hamlin Beach State Park.
Seasonal activities in Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area
In-Season
Visit Letchworth State Park
Less than five miles (eight km) from Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area is Letchworth State Park, the “Grand Canyon of the East.” The park includes three major waterfalls between cliffs, some as high as 600 feet (182 m), along with lush forests. There are 66 miles (106 km) of hiking trails in the park, as well as trails for horseback riding, biking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. Other activities visitors can engage in are snow tubing, tours, and whitewater rafting. Letchworth State Park is a great place to visit during your trip to Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area.
Just Relax
A great way to spend time in Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area is to take a break and enjoy a meal. The Recreation Area includes picnic areas, some of which have BBQ grills. Pack a prepared meal and/or bring along something to grill. Sit back, relax and enjoy some fresh air during your time at the picnic area. Picnic areas are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Bringing kids along? There are two playgrounds that they can explore.
Take a Tour of the Dam
From April 1 through October 25, free Ranger-guided walking tours are conducted inside Mount Morris Dam. Accommodating up to 30 people at a time, tours are first-come, first-served. After you sign up for the next available tour, you can explore the Visitor Center, and see a short film about the dam. Touring the dam is a unique experience where you will have the opportunity to learn more about it and its surrounding area.
Fish the Lower Genesee River
While visiting the Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area, consider doing some fishing of the lower portion of the Genesee River. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation stocks Lake Ontario with chinook salmon, coho salmon and rainbow trout near the mouth of the Genesee River, making for plenty of opportunity for a good catch. Not only can you catch your next meal, but you can enjoy the beauty and solitude of the river as you relax and wait for a bite!
Off-Season
Explore the Trails
While visiting Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area, you will find that there are many trails to explore. The Finger Lakes Trail, for example, will deliver excellent views of the area’s natural surroundings. If hiking isn't your thing, you can explore the trail by bike, snowshoes, or skis. Keep a lookout for wildlife as you explore the area; you may spot bluebirds, bald eagles, and white-tailed deer!
Ski at the Swain Ski Resort
Less than 30 minutes from Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area is the Swain Ski Resort. As the resort offers 35 trails, five lifts, and two terrain parks, you are sure to find a perfect way to enjoy the area’s powder, no matter your ski ability. Lessons are available at the resort, which also offers lodging accommodations and dining options. Some time at the Swain Ski Resort will show you how much outdoor fun you can have during the winter months.
