Rainbow Lake Recreation Center

For those searching for "Hotels Near Of Me" with a focus on recreational activities and a resort-style experience in the East Otto, NY area, Rainbow Lake Recreation Center presents a unique offering. Located at 6994 Plato Rd, East Otto, NY 14729, USA, it operates primarily as a membership-based camping resort, known officially as Allegany Mountain Resort at Rainbow Lake. While it offers a wide array of amenities typically found in resorts, its operational model differs significantly from a traditional hotel, primarily focusing on long-term stays and recreational access for members. You can contact them at (716) 699-2352 or via mobile at +1 716-699-2352.

The environment at Rainbow Lake Recreation Center elicits strong, contrasting opinions from visitors. One perspective describes it as "beautiful and amazing with SO much to do!" emphasizing the abundance of activities and the opportunity to "enjoy a fire at your campsite after" being out and about. This suggests a vibrant, nature-immersed setting ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking an active vacation. The resort is situated on over 300 acres, bordering a 70-acre lake, which contributes to its scenic beauty.

However, another significant portion of feedback reveals a far less positive impression. These reviews describe the facilities as "extremely rundown," "crappy," and lacking in proper maintenance. Concerns about safety are raised, with mentions of "holes in the ground" and difficulty for handicapped individuals due to the hilly terrain and lack of golf cart accessibility for non-owners. The cleanliness of facilities like showers, with reports of "cold" water and non-functioning units, along with a lack of privacy in changing rooms, points to significant deficiencies in upkeep. There are also concerning reports of aggressive sales tactics for memberships and dissatisfaction with the membership terms once purchased. This suggests a dual reality where the potential for a great recreational experience is hampered by issues with facility condition and a challenging business model for some guests.

As a membership camping resort, Rainbow Lake Recreation Center primarily offers camping and RV sites, though it may also have cabins or cottages available for rent.

• Campsites: The resort provides over 300 acres of camping facilities, including RV sites and tent sites. A significant point of concern for RV users is the reported lack of septic hookups at individual sites, requiring campers to wait in line at a dump station upon departure or pay an additional fee for mobile pump-out service. This can be a major inconvenience.
• Cabins & Cottages: While specific details are limited, the resort likely offers some form of cabin or cottage rentals for those who prefer not to tent or RV camp.

In terms of recreational features, the resort boasts an extensive list designed to cater to a wide range of interests, often highlighting its "More Fun Than Your Family Can Imagine" aspect:

• Lakeside Activities: A private 70-acre Rainbow Lake offers opportunities for abundant fishing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle-boating, and sailing. Complimentary boat rentals are advertised.
• Pools: The recreational center includes both indoor and outdoor pools, with mentions of three inviting pools in total. Some reviews, however, criticize the cleanliness and functionality of the indoor pool facilities, including cold showers and lack of privacy in changing rooms.
• Sports Courts: A wide array of sports facilities includes basketball courts, tennis courts, volleyball courts, pickleball courts, baseball/softball diamond, mini-golf, horseshoes, and cornhole.
• Recreation Lodge & Family Lodge: These communal spaces are designed for relaxation, games, and socializing.
• Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds are available for children.
• Crafts Cabin: Offers a space for artistic expression and hands-on fun for all ages.
• Hiking & Biking Trails: Scenic paths are available for exploring the campground and natural beauty.
• Chapel: A peaceful retreat overlooking Rainbow Lake.
• Ice Cream Shop: A sweet treat option for guests.
• Pavilions: Two pavilions are available for events and gatherings.

The customer reviews present a mixed view of the staff and services. While some positive experiences highlight "friendly" and "upbeat people" and "great staff members in the park," there are strong criticisms regarding interactions with management and sales personnel. Reviewers describe sales appointments as "very pushy" and allege that staff "lied" about membership terms and cancellation policies. There are reports of staff hanging up on callers, indicating poor customer service when issues arise.

Other services generally include:

• Gated Entry & 24-Hour Security: Providing peace of mind for members and guests.
• Dump Station: Available for RV waste disposal.
• Firewood Delivery: For convenience at campsites.
• Comfort Stations: Equipped with showers and modern facilities, though cleanliness and functionality are contested in reviews.
• Full-Time Activities Director: Planning scheduled themed events and activities for all ages, including fishing tournaments, evening dances, and special holiday events.
• Pool-Side Café: Offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including a famous Friday fish fry. However, the operational consistency and quality of these dining options are not explicitly detailed in provided reviews.

Rainbow Lake Recreation Center primarily promotes itself as "Western New York's premier membership camping resort," synonymous with "FUN." The allure lies in its extensive list of amenities, activities, and the promise of a "memorable getaway" with "more fun than your family can imagine." The emphasis is on providing an all-inclusive recreational experience, with "most amenities, activities, boating, and recreation equipment without the extra nickels and dimes" (once the membership is paid).

However, it's crucial to understand that this is largely a membership-based resort, not a typical hotel for transient bookings. Reviews strongly advise against trusting sales pitches, with some guests expressing "pure regret" over purchasing memberships, citing high costs, restrictive terms (e.g., "stuck with the membership for 20 years"), and poor facility maintenance post-purchase. This highlights a significant discrepancy between the promotional image and the realities faced by some members. While the resort offers various activities and a natural setting, the membership model and associated sales practices are a major point of caution.

Its location at 6994 Plato Rd, East Otto, NY, places it near the village of Ellicottville, known for its ski resorts and other attractions, and Lily Dale, a spiritualist community. This positions it as a potential "home base" for exploring the Enchanted Mountains region. However, given the concerns about the facilities and the membership model, potential visitors searching for "Hotels Near Of Me" should exercise extreme caution and thoroughly investigate the terms and conditions of any proposed membership. Directly contacting the resort at (716) 699-2352 or +1 716-699-2352 for the most current and transparent information, especially regarding membership details and the current condition of facilities, is highly recommended before committing to any stay or purchase.