Glamping near Deposit, New York offers diverse camping experiences within the western foothills of the Catskill Mountains. At elevations ranging from 1,000-1,500 feet, the region experiences cool summer evenings with temperatures typically dropping into the 50s overnight even during July and August. Several campgrounds maintain no-cell-service zones, creating true disconnection opportunities for visitors seeking digital detox.
What to do
Kayaking on calm waters: Oquaga Creek State Park Campground provides a peaceful lake environment for paddling. "You can kayak and swim in the lake, and see incredible stars at night. Would recommend bringing your bikes," notes camper Ann F.
Fishing opportunities: The region's waterways support diverse fishing experiences with multiple species available. At Russell Brook Campsites, "Every site is well-equipped with its own water, electricity, fire pit, and picnic table. The best part is the waterfront sites. We were right next to a small brook," according to visitor Attila T.
Trail exploration: Multiple interconnected trail systems provide day hiking options throughout the area. At Chenango Valley State Park, visitors find "plenty of space to swim, and the walking trails are well maintained. You can also fish in the lake for trout and bass," according to Matt G.
What campers like
Natural seclusion: Chenango Valley State Park Campground offers sites that balance privacy with amenities. "We were just passing through on a rainy night, but this park would be a good choice for a multi-night stay. Parking pads in the non-electric section are dirt/grass," explains Mary S., who also notes the wildlife viewing potential: "We had four [deer] that were feeding behind our site in the morning."
Off-grid relaxation: Many visitors appreciate the disconnected atmosphere at certain campsites. At Oquaga Creek, "Oquaga is a great campground if you want to get off-the-grid for a little while. There are plenty of well-marked trails to hike. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked," shares Fred C.
Seasonal flexibility: Some glamping options near Deposit remain available during shoulder seasons. Lackawanna State Park Campground accommodates various preferences with "standard car camping tent sites, RV sites, and yurts and camper cabins. For those who like more rustic options, there are hike-in sites that are beautiful," according to Janet R.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell phone service varies significantly throughout the region. At Chenango Valley State Park, "No cell service or wifi which didnt bother me but could some," notes Cheryl S. Plan communications accordingly.
Wildlife encounters: The area hosts active wildlife populations. As Mary S. warns at Chenango Valley, "Beware of raccoons. They are brazen thieves here...and every campground they inhabit. Just don't leave your food out."
Electrical setup considerations: Some campgrounds have nonstandard electrical configurations. At Unadilla KOA, "The tent sites with electric like the one we took used 240v 50A plugs, so we had to borrow a converter plug form the office for our 120v equipment," reports Deborah W.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Lackawanna State Park Campground provides multiple water-based recreation options. "There is fishing and boating, and an amazing network if hiking and horse riding trails," mentions Janet R., who appreciates the family-friendly setup.
Recreation facilities: Many area campgrounds maintain dedicated children's areas. At Chenango Valley State Park, "Playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach and new bath house. They have fishing and boat rentals," according to Mary P.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer learning activities for children. Chenango Valley provides "Lots of info about the glaciers that formed the lakes you can swim in. Great wildlife (wood ducks & kingfishers)," notes Dan N., making it suitable for educational family outings.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Roscoe Campsites provides RV-specific sites with infrastructure but varied privacy. "The sites were VERY close together, and there is nothing separating them. If you're looking for quiet seclusion, don't even remotely consider this spot as an option," cautions Justin H.
Power management: Electrical systems at older campgrounds may not handle high loads. At Lackawanna State Park, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," warns David.
Site surface types: RV pads vary significantly between parks. At Chenango Valley, "Parking pads in the electric loops (30 amps and 50 amps) have a good amount of gravel," notes Mary S., which helps prevent sinking during wet weather.
