Burlington Flats sits in the rural upstate New York region at approximately 1,250 feet elevation with a humid continental climate featuring four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F while winters see average lows around 10-30°F with significant snowfall. The area features rolling hills intersected by small creeks and streams that feed into larger waterways like Otsego Lake, creating diverse terrain for camping.
What to do
Hiking at Glimmerglass State Park: The park offers multiple trail networks with varied terrain suitable for all skill levels. "Very quiet small campground - friendly staff - large spots/mainly bigger setups. Only downside is there is not a hiking/walking path down to the lake from the campground," notes Heather E. about Glimmerglass State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: The nearby lakes offer excellent fishing for various species. "The lake is pristine and wonderful to swim in. Nice beach. Also a place for showers and a bathroom and small place for food and extras things you might need for camping. Trails for walking," shares Patti M. about her experience at Glimmerglass.
Diamond mining excursions: Take a short drive to try prospecting for Herkimer diamonds (double-terminated quartz crystals). "Across the road from a do it yourself quartz mine. Plenty of things to do including tubing the west Canada river. Easy in easy out for the tubing," explains Secc P. about Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA.
Tubing and water activities: Several campgrounds offer water-based recreation. "There is a beautiful river where some of the sites are located next to, where you can wade into, kayak, tube down, or just sit on the bank and watch the local wild life swim by," shares Darby R. about Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds in the area feature well-separated camping spots. "The tent camping area has nice wooded area with fire pits and a view of the rolling hills. Beautiful!" says Rebecca F. about her stay at Cooperstown KOA.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good standards for bathrooms and showers. "Very clean cabins, store disc golf course. Easy in easy out for the tubing. Had a great time," notes Secc P. about his experience at Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA.
Family-friendly amenities: Most campgrounds cater to families with children. "This campground is great, sites are spaced out very nicely, lots of things to do for everyone, a pool for the kids, shuffle board, disc golf, tubing, everything is organized, and nice and clean!" Lisa L. explains about her stay at Herkimer.
Natural setting with modern conveniences: Glamping in Burlington Flats, New York, balances nature with comfort. "On top of hill right outside of town. Stayed during the week and was able to get a more secluded, wooded site. Convenient WSE hookup right at site," shares Jen B. about Deer Haven Campground and Cabins.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through October. "It's a beautiful campground and the campsites are pretty secluded. Best of all, you can bring your pets!" mentions Carrie J. about Bowman Lake State Park Campground.
Variable cell service: Reception can be spotty depending on location and carrier. "The WiFi is very good-- modern and surprising speeds (60Mbps) and cell phone for AT&T was decent," notes Jim G. about Cooperstown KOA, though service varies at other sites.
Mosquito preparation: Wooded areas require insect protection, especially in summer. "There are a lot of mosquitoes, but with some bug spray and a couple thermacell mosquito repellents, we were comfortable the whole time," advises Oleńka S. about her Bowman Lake experience.
Reservation timing: Peak summer weekends fill quickly, especially for luxury glamping accommodations near Burlington Flats. "Owners are very sweet and were accommodating when we had to check-in 5 mins late because of traffic," mentions Loryn B. about Deer Haven.
Tips for camping with families
Easy access activities: Choose campgrounds with on-site recreation options. "Very beautiful campground with tons of planned activities for the kids. Outdoor pool and clean shower/bathrooms. Lots of grass and shade," recommends Jeani B. about Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA.
Swimming beaches: Look for sites with guarded swimming areas. "Green lakes is a great place to visit. For the local area it's a great day trip. Small hikes swimming and good picnic area," suggests Ryan W. about Green Lakes State Park Campground.
Multi-generational options: Several campgrounds accommodate various comfort levels. "We go annually with family and friends. The sites are a great size for accommodating two tents and have many people gather at meals. The beach, trail to historic house, boating, fishing, and Cooperstown nearby keep everyone in the group entertained," shares Leah B. about Glimmerglass.
Budget flexibility: The region offers camping experiences at various price points. "We had a back in site with a fire pit, picnic table, and no hook ups. It was gravel and not super level, but we made it work," explains Oleńka S. about Bowman Lake State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose locations based on your RV size and hookup needs. "The park is nicely terraced and all the sites are level. Patios were a grassy/dirt area with a picnic table and fire pit," notes Nancy W. about Cooperstown KOA.
Seasonal weather preparations: Weather can change quickly in this region. "We had a lot of tree cover so we didn't even need our air conditioning on during an 85 degree day," shares Oleńka S. about camping at Bowman Lake.
Local supply options: Know where to restock as some campgrounds are remote. "The surrounding area is pretty rural and the closest town (Richfield Springs– which is very small) is five miles away and where you will find restaurants, gas station, grocery store, and more," advises Nancy W. about the area near Cooperstown KOA.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment. "It was gravel and not super level, but we made it work. There was a potable water spigot a few sites over and a bathroom with showers a short walk away," mentions Oleńka S. about Crazy Acres Campground.
