Glimmerglass State Park Campground offers traditional camping and luxury glamping options near Cherry Valley, New York. Located in the central region of New York state at approximately 1,200 feet elevation, the area features rolling hills and temperate summer weather that typically ranges from 60-80°F. Campsites throughout the region offer access to various water features including Otsego Lake, West Canada Creek, and smaller ponds that support fishing and water recreation.
What to Do
Swimming and beach activities: Glimmerglass State Park Campground has a designated swimming area with lifeguards during summer months. "The beach was gorgeous the campsite was a great size and secluded. I can't wait to go back next year!" notes Tanya W.
Historic site exploration: Visit Hyde Hall, located within the park grounds. "There is a historic house at the park that you can tour and the country's oldest covered bridge," explains Nancy W., who stayed at Cooperstown KOA.
Star viewing: Many campsites in the Cherry Valley region offer excellent night sky visibility. "We have also had some great star viewing here!" shares Leah B. from Glimmerglass State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Caroga Lake Campground provides access to prime fishing spots. "Sites are very easy to get into and well maintained. Water available and electric. The lake is pristine and wonderful to swim in," reports Patti M.
What Campers Like
Spacious, level sites: Crazy Acres Campground offers well-maintained camping areas. "Excellent campground. Grounds are clean, kids were constantly busy and happy. Seasonal sites are extremely well kept," mentions Jen C.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness is frequently mentioned in reviews. "This was our 2nd time at the park. It is clean great bathroom and showers. Very friendly campers and plenty to do at camp grounds and around the area," writes Patti M. about Glimmerglass State Park.
Morning views: Sunrise views are particularly notable at some locations. According to Kimberly R., "Sunrises and sunsets are amazing there. Owners super friendly... truly enjoyed our weekend and are planning a trip back next year."
Accessibility to Cooperstown: Most campsites in the Cherry Valley area provide reasonable access to nearby attractions. "With Cooperstown 15-20 minutes away no lack of things to do for adults and kids. Great restaurants also. No reason to ever get bored," says Patti M.
What You Should Know
Camping season limitations: Most campgrounds in the area operate from mid-May through early October. Max V. Shaul State Park runs "May 19 to October 10" according to park information, while others close after Columbus Day weekend.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially during baseball tournament season. "You can't park any vehicle over 20' in Cooperstown, but you can park for free (even a motorhome) in the Yellow Lot and take the Trolley into town for $2.50. Super convenient!" advises Jim G.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have water supply issues. Peter S. warns about one location: "The water smelled like raw sewage, loaded with sediment and very discolored. Little to no pressure and a couple times no water at all."
Quiet hours: Most campgrounds strictly enforce quiet time. "Even though our neighbors were loud, they all respected quiet time at 11pm (because it was a holiday)," notes Kelly J. about her experience at Crazy Acres Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water slides and pools: Nickerson Park Campground offers water recreation beyond natural swimming areas. "The pool/water slides were a hit with the kids! Also, the staff come around to pick up your trash bags daily, which was a nice little perk," shares Sarah S.
Gem hunting excursions: Children enjoy the mining activities at Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA. "The diamond mines are very cool also, I found some excellent diamonds!" reports Lisa L., while another camper adds, "The mines are wonderful also if you'd want to search for your own Herkimer diamonds (clear doubles terminated quartz)."
Playground accessibility: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment. "The center area of each grouping of sites had a common use area with tether ball, playgrounds, privies, or additional parking," notes Sarah S. about Nickerson Park.
Nature activities: Hiking trails suitable for children exist throughout the region. "There's easy hiking on the grounds, and it's close to Cooperstown—visit the baseball hall of fame!" mentions Brian H. about Glimmerglass State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for satellite access: At Cooperstown KOA, satellite reception can be challenging. "The park does have a fair amount of trees that would interfere with roof-mounted satellite dishes so you would have to pick your site carefully. But, there are some 30 amp and no hook-up sites that are clear," advises Nancy W.
Wi-Fi availability: Internet access varies by campground. "The WiFi is very good—modern and surprising speeds (60Mbps) and cell phone for AT&T was decent," reports Jim G. about Cooperstown KOA.
Terrain considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain. "Very steep driveway" notes Jennie about one location, while another reviewer mentioned, "Our site (#41) was a pull-thru but there was no way we could drive our 45' motorhome forward out of the site because of a large tree and narrow roads. So we ended up having to back out."
Hookup options: Utilities vary widely between campgrounds. "Site types include full hookup, water and electric, and no hookup with prices varying depending upon site. You can choose between 30/20 or 50 amp electric service," explains Nancy W.
