This summer, as more travelers opt for closer-to-home escapes, a recent New York Times article spotlighted Lake Erie as a top-tier alternative to oceanfront vacations. Beachgoers say what sets Presque Isle apart is exactly what the New York Times highlighted: its natural beauty, accessibility, and the variety of experiences along its seven miles of shoreline.

Many at Presque Isle State Park told me they love that it offers the feel of a true beach getaway—without the ocean crowds or travel costs.

"It's a definite destination place, you know. Freshwater, nice beaches," Daniel Brleo said.

"It's a good time to relax after a long day of football during the two-a-days," one high school football player added.

"I took my brother and father out fishing for walleye at the Lake Ministries, to a fishing charter that works with people with disabilities, and we had a wonderful, wonderful time," Daniel Brleo said.

"It's been nice getting away from home, and we don't have any good beaches here in Buffalo," another beachgoer shared.

"We took a 3+ hour drive to be here," one family told me.