Gilbert Lake State Park Campground features 33 cabins ranging from two-room cabins with bunk beds to full kitchen cabins with fireplaces and screened-in porches. Most cabins can sleep 4-6 people comfortably with varying amenities. The park operates from May 13 to October 9 annually with cabin reservations often filling months in advance for summer weekends. Cabins without plumbing typically rent for $60-85 per night while those with full amenities range from $95-125 per night depending on season.
What to do
Baseball activities for families: Cooperstown Family Campground provides a large grass baseball field where families can practice. According to a recent visitor, "We had a big grass baseball field almost all to ourselves" with convenient access to "a cute barn [with] 12 or so arcade machines they'll open up for you when you want to play." The campground is approximately 10 minutes from the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Crazy Acres Campground at Beaver Spring Lake offers fishing in their lake with no license required for registered guests. One camper noted it has "a big lake to fish in and a pool to relax by" making it ideal for mixed-activity days. The lake contains largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish.
Swimming at multiple locations: The Unadilla KOA maintains their pool into early October, with one visitor confirming, "Pool looked nice and was still open in early October." Several campgrounds offer swimming options ranging from pools to natural lakes, with most open from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends.
What campers like
Updated electrical service: Gilbert Lake State Park has recently expanded its electrical options. As one camper reported, "They're finally adding a bunch of electric sites and have discontinued every other site in the deer run area. This makes the sites very large. There's 30 and 50 amp hookups." This renovation has created more spacious campsites with improved amenities.
Clean, modern facilities: Cooperstown Beaver Valley Campground receives consistent praise for cleanliness. A recent visitor noted, "The bathrooms are impeccable, the grounds are groomed, well kept and clean and there are 2 pools, one for the little children and a larger one older people." The campground provides on-site waste tank service when needed.
Fall camping conditions: Many campers recommend autumn visits for optimal camping conditions. One Gilbert Lake visitor stated, "Fall is the time to go!" while another at Susquehanna Trail Campground mentioned, "It's September and there were only a few people here so it was really peaceful." Fall temperatures typically range from 40-65°F with reduced crowds and colorful foliage.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit near active rail lines. A Susquehanna Trail Campground reviewer warned, "The train tracks are super close and it shook the whole camper when a train went by." Trains typically pass 3-4 times daily with most activity during daylight hours.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. At Hartwick Highlands Campground, guests enjoy a peaceful experience in their "100 acre woods section" which one visitor described as "quiet... so nice for a couples camping trip!" Gilbert Lake campers report "little to no cell signal" with slightly better reception "on top of the hill" sites.
Water quality alerts: Some lakes in the region have experienced algae issues. A Gilbert Lake reviewer noted, "A major problem at this park is the recent development of a toxic algae problem in the lake. Because of algae blooms during warm weather, swimming and fishing in Gilbert Lake are now prohibited." Always check current lake conditions before planning water activities.
Tips for camping with families
Baseball tournament accommodations: Glimmerglass State Park Campground offers convenient access to youth baseball tournaments. Located 15-20 minutes from Cooperstown, one camper shared, "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." The campground features large, level sites suitable for families.
Year-round cabin options: Families seeking non-tent options should consider Gilbert Lake's cabins. A visitor described their experience: "Spacious cabin was clean and comfortable. Two bedrooms, one with bunk beds and another with a full. There were dressers in each room. Also in the main room with a fireplace, futon, and table with benches." These cabins remain popular during shoulder seasons.
Dog-friendly beach areas: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Colliersville provide water access for pets. One Glimmerglass visitor appreciated that "you can bring your pets" to their "awesome beach camping experience" where the "campsites are pretty secluded." Most beaches allow leashed dogs in designated areas outside swimming zones.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many campgrounds have specific RV length restrictions. At My Friends Place, the focus is primarily on cabins and yurts with limited RV sites. For larger rigs, Susquehanna Trail Campground offers "30amp gravel backin rv campsites with water and sewer connections" as noted by a recent guest.
Hookup placement challenges: RV campers should verify hookup locations before arrival. At Cooperstown Family Campground, one RVer observed, "The pedestals where we were were in the bushes directly behind the campers, and unfortunately for me my hookups are towards the front of my camper so I had to pull in sideways to reach the pedestal." Request site details when booking.
Seasonal closing dates: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Colliersville operate seasonally. Hartwick Highlands Campground runs from "May 11 to Oct 8" while Crazy Acres extends slightly longer from "April 15 to October 31." Call ahead if planning a late-season visit as water systems are typically winterized in early October regardless of closing dates.
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