Highbanks Campground, in Steamburg, NY, is commemorating its 50th anniversary this Memorial Day weekend, May 23–25, 2025. Established in 1975 and fully operated by the Seneca Nation of Indians, the campground has served as a cherished destination for families and campers for half a century.
On May 31st, 1975 the official opening of Highbanks Campground took place on the Hotchkiss Plateau. Some of those who were present at the opening were SNI officials including President Robert Hoag, Clerk Genevieve Plummer, Treasurer Calvin E. Lay, federal, state, county Project Director, Salamanca and Allegany State Park officials were also in attendance.
It was a time of rapid economic development and growth for the Nation. Seneca Lanes opened in September 1975. Bingo was already underway. Over the next few years the Seneca Nation Sports Arena (Gil Lay Arena), the Seneca-Iroquois National Museum, Seneca Nation Health Department opened medical-dental clinics constructions were underway, and each territory now had youth center and pool, and library.
In 1975 Highbanks “Phase I” included 10 weekender and chalet-type cabins and 100 campsites. “Phase II” included an additional 10 cabins and 100 campsites, and a small store.
Over the years, Highbanks has evolved into a year-round retreat, offering 162 campsites and 37 cabins. Visitors can enjoy a range of amenities, including a general store, deluxe cabins with full baths, tent and trailer sites equipped with electric and water hookups, laundry facility, a boat launch, dock rentals, a heated in-ground pool, hot tub, and various recreational facilities such as horseshoe pits, fishing areas, volleyball courts, and playgrounds.
This year the campground will add a small recreation faciltiy onsite with various family oriented games. A new boat dock will be built this year for seasonal campers.
Throughout the year many activities are held here including fishing tournaments, nature hikes, seasonal festivities and other things such as cultural workshops and demonstrations like medicine walks. There is also a brand new 18 hole disc golf course on the property.
The boat launch and property has also been a stapled location for beautiful wedding ceremonies as well as the lodge for receptions, graduations, birthday parties and more.
The 50th-anniversary celebration will be a weekend filled with festivities, including live music, food vendors, giveaways, and fireworks. This milestone not only marks five decades of providing memorable camping experiences but also highlights the Seneca Nation’s dedication to preserving, sharing, and celebrating cultural heritage through building a community.
