Camping options in Duanesburg, New York, range from basic tent sites to full-service RV hookups at elevations around 1,400 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from December through March, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F. Campgrounds in this region typically operate from May through October, though several offer year-round accommodations with winter-specific amenities.
What to do
Hiking at Vroman's Nose: Located within driving distance of Max V. Shaul State Park Campground, this moderate trail offers views of the Schoharie Valley. "There's no pond/lake here but there's several waterfalls nearby and vromans nose," notes Brian H.
Winter recreation: Frosty Acres Campground maintains a small winter section with opportunities for seasonal activities. According to James S., "You'll have the entire mountain side all to yourself! Snowshoe, cross country ski. Winter campfires."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds provide fishing access at select campgrounds. James S. mentions Frosty Acres has "Two ponds to fish in, one you can swim in," while other campgrounds offer stream access for additional fishing opportunities.
Nearby attractions: The baseball hall of fame in Cooperstown is approximately 45 minutes from several campgrounds. Brian H. says of Glimmerglass State Park Campground, "Great for families, the parking lots is huge, there's easy hiking on the grounds, and it's close to cooperstown- visit the baseball hall of fame!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer well-spaced sites. Tom S. reports that Max V. Shaul has "Lots of space between sites," while another camper notes the sites are "large, flat and sited well apart from each other."
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and shower facilities receive positive mentions. Darby R. states Max V. Shaul's "bathrooms and showers are clean and well-kept. The staff is friendly and helpful, and check the campground regularly so you can feel safe."
Water recreation: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas, with Nickerson Park Campground offering additional water features. Jennifer P. notes, "They had a pool and water slides for the kids."
Natural surroundings: The forested setting creates a secluded atmosphere at many sites. James S. describes the environment at Frosty Acres: "Backed up to state forest land. Very remote. Windy as all get out. Elevation about 1409 feet. View of the sunrise over the entire valley are awesome."
What you should know
Limited hookups at state parks: Not all state park campgrounds provide full hookups. Holly R. notes of Max V. Shaul, "No hookups, just a picnic table, firepit," though water spigots are available nearby at most sites.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through October. Caroga Lake Campground is open "May 19 to September 30," while Max V. Shaul operates "May 19 to October 10."
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. Tom S. mentions that at Max V. Shaul, "There is a well traveled road near the park so you get traffic noise."
Weather considerations: The elevated location of some campgrounds affects conditions. DevilDoc Campsites offers primitive camping with varying weather patterns. Ross L. describes, "You'll fall asleep to the sounds of bull frogs, oh and the star gazing is pretty darn nice as well!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. Margaret L. notes Max V. Shaul features "a playground, a pavilion, they do fireside jams."
Swimming options: Beach and pool facilities provide water recreation for families. Erin G. reports that Glimmerglass State Park has "views at glimmerglass are wonderful. I have brought my dog swimming and hiking several times. The beach is great and well kept."
Group activities: Country Roads Campground organizes special events for families. William R. mentions they have "special events in a pavilion near the RVs including bingo."
Kid-friendly accommodations: Glamping close to Duanesburg, New York provides alternative options for families not interested in tent camping. James S. notes Frosty Acres is "Pet friendly. Kid friendly" with amenities like "Huge club house and store... Arcade, grill, pool table and small store."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger RVs. Sarah S. describes Nickerson Park: "Groups of sites sit on level terraces stepped down toward the river. The center area of each grouping of sites had a common use area with tether ball, playgrounds, privies, or additional parking."
Utility services: Water quality and electrical service vary between campgrounds. For RVers at Moreau Lake State Park Campground, Nancy W. reports, "This is dry camping so there are no hook-ups but there are restrooms and shower."
Navigating campground roads: Tree placement can create challenges for larger rigs. Nancy W. explains, "The road to our campsite was paved and in good shape but there were a few tight spots because of the trees that make it tricky for a big rig (Loop A seems to be the best for big-rigs)."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dump stations. Rosie Lon S. noted at DevilDoc Campsites, "Only con was that they were limited on water so could not dump tanks during our stay, had to travel to another place, a little hassle."
