Delta Lake State Park provides traditional camping options near Rome, New York, at an elevation of 423 feet above sea level. The park offers 101 campsites, most with electric hookups, situated around the 2,700-acre Delta Reservoir. Camping season typically runs from mid-May through early October, with average summer temperatures ranging from 70-85°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Water activities on Delta Lake: Delta Lake State Park Campground offers multiple boat launch points for visitors bringing their own watercraft. "We had a 19ft boat and always enjoyed a day. A night in a tent afterward with marshmallows over the fire was perfect," shares Kelly B. about the experience at Delta Lake.
Hiking forest trails: Glimmerglass State Park Campground maintains several hiking paths through wooded terrain around Otsego Lake. Located about an hour from Rome, the park features "trails for walking" and a "historic house" accessible via trail, as noted by Patti M., who adds that "the lake is pristine and wonderful to swim in."
Gemstone hunting: Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground offers visitors the opportunity to search for Herkimer diamonds (double-terminated quartz crystals). "Great diamonds to find!" reports Jennie, who recommends the experience right outside your campsite. Mining equipment rentals are available on-site.
What campers like
Direct water access sites: Many campers praise the waterfront camping at Delta Lake State Park. Sierra K. notes, "Sites are fairly big but not completely separated. Having the kayaks were great, there's so much to explore, and town is right down the road."
Clean facilities: Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA maintains well-kept bathrooms and showers according to camper feedback. Jeani B. appreciates the "very beautiful campground with tons of planned activities for the kids. Outdoor pool and clean shower/bathrooms. Lots of grass and shade."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Green Lakes State Park Campground receives consistent positive reviews for its family environment. Kenneth S. describes the park as "beautiful and very clean. The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands. We visit this park very frequently to rent a boat or to hike the trails."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the Rome area require advance reservations, especially for premium sites. Marlene H. from Delta Lake State Park Campground advises, "We go here at least twice a season if not more. Spacious, mostly flat sides. Complete shade and a lot of sites right on the water."
Weather patterns: The Rome area experiences variable weather even during peak season, with occasional strong winds off the lakes. One camper at Delta Lake notes, "It got really windy at night which was nice to keep the bugs away."
Site variability: Campsite quality varies significantly within each campground. Charles S. shares about Delta Lake, "Nice spots in loop C. Loop A is quite open," suggesting researching specific loops before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature updated play equipment for children. According to Amy W. at Delta Lake State Park Campground, "They have recently added electricity to the sites and a new playground at the beach. The concession stand at the beach will deliver to your camp site."
Swimming areas: Many campgrounds maintain designated swimming beaches with varying levels of supervision. Brian O. notes that at Delta Lake, the lake is "a flooded area foaming a reservoir stocked with game fish as bass, perch, and pike. There is a very nice playground for the children and ample bathroom facilities including showers."
Educational activities: Look for campgrounds offering structured programming for children. At Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA, families can participate in mining activities that combine recreation with learning. One camper mentions it has "tons of planned activities for kids" that keep everyone entertained.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: While most campgrounds offer electric sites, full hookups are limited. Eric G. from Delta Lake State Park Campground notes they "recently added electricity to all the sites. Very popular area."
Leveling challenges: Many sites in the Rome area require leveling equipment. At Kayuta Lake Campground, Michael O. advises, "The sites themselves are a good size. They aren't huge, but you'll have enough room to get creative with your parking... for the most part are fairly level."
Road access considerations: Several campgrounds have narrow access roads. Michael O. further notes about Kayuta Lake, "The roadways can get a little tight between the trees, and can make for some interesting backing in. Also, the roadways are mostly one-way, which can make getting creative with your trailer landing position tough."
