Cabin camping near Clinton, New York offers options within state parks and private campgrounds across Oneida, Herkimer, and Otsego counties. Located in the western Mohawk Valley region at around 500 feet elevation, this area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter lows regularly dropping below freezing. Cabin rentals typically require reservations 9-12 months in advance during peak season between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
What to do
Tubing adventures: At West Canada Creek Campground, visitors can enjoy tubing down the creek with shuttle service. "Easy in easy out for the tubing. Had a great time," notes a camper, while another shares, "The West Canada Creek itself is known for its trout fishing, attracting anglers from various skill levels."
Diamond mining: Across from Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA, guests can search for their own Herkimer diamonds (quartz crystals). "The mines are so much fun. Some of the sites are crowded but each site has plenty of space," reports one visitor. Another adds, "Across the road from a do it yourself quartz mine. Plenty of things to do including tubing the west Canada river."
Hiking trails: The area offers multiple trail systems surrounding cabins. "There are miles of trails to explore," mentions a visitor to Green Lakes, while another notes, "The hiking includes an easy 3.1 mile loop with much shade around two glacier formed turquoise lakes."
Lake activities: Rental equipment is available at most waterfront cabin locations. "You can rent a kayak and enjoy the beautiful lake," shares one camper. Another mentions, "Kayuta Lake wraps around the entire property and provides such a tranquil backdrop. The sites are surrounded by lush oaks and pines."
What campers like
Private accommodations: Many cabin rentals offer unexpected privacy despite their accessibility. "This is a small hidden gem of a state park where the only camping available is in camper cabins. The cabins are beautifully built with lovely settings," reports one visitor to Glimmerglass State Park Campground. Another states, "Sites are very easy to get into and well maintained. Water available and electric. The lake is pristine and wonderful to swim in."
Themed lodging: Several campgrounds offer unique cabin themes. One guest at Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA explains, "From dry tenting sites, RV hookup sites, to elaborate and science-based cabins. They offer a children's playground, pool, little grocery store, volleyball area, and of course, the Herkimer Diamond Mine and restaurant, right across the street."
Water proximity: Cabins with lake or creek views rank highest in reviews. "We spent three nights here. The staff is fabulous. The whole park is well maintained. Lots of room to walk our dogs. We will visit again," comments one visitor. Another adds, "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."
Well-maintained facilities: Clean cabins and grounds are consistently praised. "Full kitchen with fridge, oven and sink. Outside was a fire ring. An easy hike to a nearby lake was very pretty," reports one guest. Another notes, "The camp store is well stocked. The bathrooms and showers are clean and well kept. The laundry room is clean and machines are new."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Cabins book extremely quickly, especially for summer weekends. "Fills up during August when the State Fair is in Syracuse (same is true for every campsite in this area)," cautions a visitor to Green Lakes State Park Campground. Booking 9-12 months in advance is recommended for cabins during May through September.
Bathroom facilities: Facilities vary widely between locations. "The bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink which makes this a wonderful family campground," shares one Green Lakes visitor. Another notes, "Bathrooms and showers, although not the cleanest I've ever witnessed, but they are sufficient and helpful if needed."
Seasonal considerations: Some cabin amenities change seasonally. "There is a small pool but was closed because we were camping in October," mentions one fall visitor. Another adds, "Swimming is available at the large beach. You can rent a kayak and enjoy the beautiful lake."
Kitchen provisions: Bring cooking supplies appropriate to your cabin type. "You need to bring your own linens, towels, and toiletries. Full kitchen with fridge, oven and sink. Outside was a fire ring," reports a visitor. Another camper notes, "Keeping in mind, it is a busy family resort during prime season and holidays, so if you're looking for a quiet, non-crowded location, this may not be the place for you."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Family-focused cabin camping requires advance planning. "Very beautiful campground with tons of planned activities for the kids. Outdoor pool and clean shower/bathrooms. Lots of grass and shade," reports a visitor to Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA. Another adds, "They offer a children's playground, pool, little grocery store, volleyball area, and of course, the Herkimer Diamond Mine and restaurant."
Budget considerations: Factor in additional activity costs beyond cabin rental. "Tubing was the big hit with the kids. Sites were large. Very clean," shares one camper. Another mentions, "$15 per person for the tubing shuttle seems steep; a discount or free would be nice for campers, as drop off points are just down the road."
Safety provisions: Some cabin areas have specific safety measures. "We had the pleasure of staying for Labor Day weekend in which they had a kids carnival set up among many other things. Their Halloween weekend is truly a must see, with wagon rides and trick-or-treating!" explains a visitor to West Canada Creek Campground. Another notes, "Beach is great and well kept. There is a pavilion that is enclosed for everyone's use."
Park amenities: Playgrounds and recreational areas vary significantly. "The beach area has a great playground for kids that is perfect for play and swim. Dogs are welcome," shares one visitor. Another states, "There is a camp store, laundry room, recreation room, playgrounds and much more."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many cabin campgrounds also accommodate RVs but require preparation. At Cooperstown KOA, "The park is nicely terraced and all the sites are level. Patios were a grassy/dirt area with a picnic table and fire pit." Another RVer notes, "Our site 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."
Utility hookups: Check hookup specifications before booking. "There are some sites with full hook-up available and also specific areas that allow pets," advises one visitor. Another adds, "Back-in and pull-thru sites are available. 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."
Wi-Fi connectivity: Internet access varies by location. "The free wifi worked well as did our Verizon 4G phone and hotspot. We picked up a dozen or so television channels with our antenna," explains an RVer at Cooperstown KOA. Another visitor reports, "The WiFi is very good—modern and surprising speeds (60Mbps) and cell phone for AT&T was decent."
