Cabin accommodations near Schenevus, New York offer proximity to New York's Central Leatherstocking region, characterized by rolling hills and valleys at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet. Seasonal considerations impact cabin availability, with winter options limited to a handful of winterized structures. Most cabin facilities operate from mid-May through early October, coinciding with peak tourism around baseball events.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Glimmerglass State Park Campground provides access to a pristine lake for fishing enthusiasts. "The lake is pristine and wonderful to swim in. Nice beach. Also a place for showers and a bathroom and small place for food and extras things you might need for camping," notes one visitor who appreciates the clean water quality.
Baseball attractions year-round: Cooperstown Beaver Valley Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring baseball heritage sites. A visitor explains, "Beaver Valley Campground is family owned and operated, originally a baseball camp, it still has that baseball draw for those families whose youngsters are playing at the Field of Dreams and close enough to serve as your campground as you travel to visit the Baseball Hall of Fame."
Winter cross-country skiing: Some cabins near Schenevus remain open during winter months. According to a review of Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park, "you can cross country ski here in winter—in fact, reserve one of the winterized cabins and come for a long weekend of cozy cabin time and quiet time outdoors on the winter trails."
What campers like
Family recreation facilities: Glimmerglass State Park Campground offers diverse family activities beyond just camping. "We go annually with family and friends. The sites are a great size for accomadating two tents and have many people gather at meals. The beach, trail to historic house, boating, fishing, and Cooperstown nearby keep everyone in the group entertained," shares one regular visitor.
Baseball fields for team use: Campgrounds in this region cater specifically to baseball teams. "There is a large baseball field that could be rented and used. 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," notes a visitor to Cooperstown Beaver Valley Campground.
Quiet, wooded cabin settings: Deer Haven Campground and Cabins provides secluded options for those seeking privacy. One camper reports, "On top of hill right outside of town. Stayed during the week and was able to get a more secluded, wooded site. Nice walking trail around the property through woods and field."
What you should know
Seasonal closures and openings: Most cabin facilities operate on a fixed seasonal schedule. At Max V. Shaul State Park Campground, the season runs "May 19 to October 10" with similar timeframes at other parks in the region, meaning advance planning is essential for shoulder season visits.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. One visitor to Gilbert Lake State Park Campground notes, "Cell signal is not great in most places except the sites 'on top of the hill'," which can impact communication and navigation.
Algae conditions at some lakes: Water quality issues affect swimming at certain parks. A visitor warns, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Little Lake Campground provides open spaces for children. "They have lots to do, the owners are very friendly and accommodating, the campground is one of the quietest we've ever stayed at, both at night and in the morning. There are many pull through sites, lots of wooded sites, and open areas for kids to play."
Swimming pools for children: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming facilities. At Crazy Acres Campground, visitors enjoy "plenty of activities, a big lake to fish in and a pool to relax by. Nighttime family fun as well. We worth a weekend of fun for the whole family."
Winterized cabin options: For off-season family trips, seek out cabins with heating. "Reserve one of the winterized cabins and come for a long weekend of cozy cabin time and quiet time outdoors on the winter trails. There is a beautiful picnic pavilion and playground, so kid friendly," recommends a visitor to Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Gilbert Lake State Park Campground has been upgrading its RV accommodations. "The state has made many sites bigger over the last few years and is starting to add electricity to more sites. You can fill your water tank at the dump station as there are no water hookups," explains one frequent visitor with 35 years of experience camping at the park.
Electric hookup availability: Power options continue to expand at regional campgrounds. "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," notes a camper at Gilbert Lake.
Road conditions inside parks: Access can be challenging at some locations. A camper warns that at Gilbert Lake, "the only downsides are the roads are rough and there's little to no cell signal. That could be a plus for some though."
