Tent campsites near Canajoharie, New York include both secluded forest sites and recreational areas along the historic Erie Canal waterway. The region features predominantly mixed hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 300 to 800 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with higher humidity levels and occasional thunderstorms, while spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures with considerable precipitation.
What to do
Trail exploration: Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park offers mature forest trails suitable for hiking in summer and cross-country skiing in winter. The park features "trails [that] wind through mature forest" where visitors can enjoy "quiet time outdoors on the winter trails," according to Janet R.
Fishing opportunities: Several camping locations provide water access for fishing. Murphy Lake Leanto offers a remote fishing experience at the end of a challenging trail. Tony F. describes it as "worth the effort it takes to get there" with "a lake full of water, and a forest full of wood" for campers who make the journey.
Mountain biking: Ushers Road State Forest features "bicycle-friendly nature trails" according to a recent visitor. The terrain varies with both established paths and more challenging routes, though be aware that "the terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area" after heavy rainfall.
Canal exploration: The Erie Canal provides unique water-based recreational opportunities with designated camping areas. E16 Canal Lock serves as a convenient base for canal activities, with one visitor noting "The Canal Corporation provides designated spots for tent and van camping along the canal."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Many campers value the peaceful settings available at dispersed sites. A visitor to Duck Pond Campsite appreciated that "So few people passed by and very unknown quite and we just loved the experience."
Cabin accommodations: For those seeking more comfort, Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park offers well-appointed cabins. Janet R. describes them as "pretty amazing glamping for camper cabins" that are "beautifully built with lovely settings, and well appointed though you need to bring your own linens."
Natural settings: Many camping areas feature scenic natural surroundings. At Murphy Lake Leanto, the payoff for a challenging approach is considerable. One visitor described passing "through rocky, rooted terrain and pine tree barrens" before reaching "the large Leanto" with its lakeside setting.
Established fire rings: Many dispersed sites include previously used fire rings. A visitor to Ushers Road State Forest noted finding "a previously used campsite, approximately 200 feet from the main trail. The site includes a stone fire ring, indicating prior use."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to several campgrounds requires navigating unpaved roads that may challenge some vehicles. At Duck Pond Campsite, one visitor warns about "the road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough" and decided to "go out the other way, which was way worse."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly throughout the camping areas. The Laker family reported "Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads" to Duck Pond Campsite.
Maximum stay limits: Canal Corporation sites restrict camping duration. Grandpa's Back 40 Glamping offers tent sites with amenities including drinking water, showers, toilets, and a market, providing alternatives for longer stays.
Wilderness preparation: Remote sites require self-sufficiency. At Murphy Lake Leanto, campers must be "prepared to go over downfalls" as "the area is maintained, but wind happens in the old growth forest."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly facilities. At Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park, Janet R. notes there is "a beautiful picnic pavilion and playground, so kid friendly."
Swimming options: While not all camping areas have swimming access, alternatives exist nearby. Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park has "a couple of ponds for fishing, but if you want to swim you need to go over to nearby Otsego Lake."
Private retreat feel: Whitetail Meadows offers a small established campground with just 4 sites, providing picnic tables, showers, toilets and a family-friendly environment with fire rings and firewood available.
Easy identification trails: Some forest trails use color-coding for navigation. At Murphy Lake, the route is "Well marked with blue Trail Blazers, the trail snakes its way through the wilderness," making it easier for families to stay on track.
Tips from RVers
Small RV considerations: Most dispersed camping areas have limitations for larger vehicles. At Ushers Road State Forest, camping is permitted "anywhere in the woods as long as it's at least 150 feet off the trail," but access requires careful vehicle selection.
Hookup availability: Limited electrical connections exist in the region. For RVers requiring hookups, Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park offers sites with electric, water, and sewer connections, though the primary focus is on their cabin accommodations.
Road clearance requirements: Access roads to many sites require vehicles with adequate clearance. The Laker family noted at Duck Pond Campsite that "the years taken off the life of my truck was not worth it," suggesting smaller or more rugged vehicles are better suited to the terrain.
