Best Campgrounds near Esperance, NY

Camping near Esperance, New York, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

• Kayaking and swimming: Enjoy the water at Glimmerglass State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "You will enjoy the amazing beach and waterfront on Otsego Lake, and great kayaking on the lake as well as the stream flowing into it."
• Hiking: Explore the trails around Schodack Island State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "There are several hiking trails, a bike trail, a really awesome playground, boat dock, and lots of picnicking."
• Fishing: Cast a line at Caroga Lake. One camper shared, "The campsites were spacious for two tents... The bathrooms and showers were typical of other campgrounds and not overly large however they were cleaned regularly."

What campers like:

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Max V Shaul State Park. A reviewer said, "Great campsite, cleanest facilities ever! Good adjustable campfire cooking rack."
• Friendly staff: Many visitors enjoy the welcoming atmosphere at Cooperstown KOA. One guest mentioned, "The staff is great and friendly. A little off the beaten path but I think this is what makes this place perfect."
• Spacious sites: Campers love the roomy sites at Nickerson Park Campground. A review stated, "Absolutely loved this campground. The sites were very spacious and clean."

What you should know:

• Water quality issues: Be cautious about the water at Nickerson Park Campground. One camper warned, "The WATER! Absolutely disgusting! ... The WATER SMELLED LIKE RAW SEWAGE!"
• Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like DevilDoc Campsites, may not have all the amenities you expect. A visitor noted, "There’s no running water at the tent sites, but the pond is available and with a carbon water filter, it was delicious."
• Seasonal availability: Check the camping season for each site. For example, Glimmerglass State Park Campground is open from May 13 to October 9.

Tips for camping with families:

• Playgrounds and activities: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. Whip O Will Campsites has a playground and a lake, making it a great spot for families. One parent said, "The campground was so huge... it had a nice lake and playground."
• Quiet hours: Respect the quiet hours to ensure everyone has a good time. A camper at Cooperstown KOA mentioned, "People respect the quiet hours which was really appreciated as we had a couple early mornings."
• Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A visitor at Thompson's Lake Campground noted, "All public areas including the bathrooms are very clean."

Tips from RVers:

• Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Glimmerglass State Park Campground said, "If you want a quiet tenting experience, choose the Beaver Pond primitive tenting campground!"
• Wi-Fi availability: Look for campgrounds with good Wi-Fi if you need to work. A visitor at Schodack Island State Park Campground mentioned, "Verizon cell service worked well and I was able to work remotely with video calls from our RV."
• Dump station access: Ensure there's a dump station nearby. A camper at Max V Shaul State Park noted, "Dump station on the way out."

Camping near Esperance, New York, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to check the specifics of each campground to make the most of your trip!