Camping spots near Fonda, New York encompass terrain ranging from 400 feet elevation in the Mohawk Valley to over 1,400 feet in the Adirondack foothills. Seasonal temperature fluctuations can be dramatic, with summer highs often reaching the 80s while winter lows frequently drop below zero. Most camping areas remain snow-covered from December through March, with forest service roads often impassable during spring thaw periods.
What to do
Fishing in local ponds: DevilDoc Campsites offers a small Artesian-fed pond where guests can fish. A camper noted, "You'll fall asleep to the sounds of bull frogs, oh and the star gazing is pretty darn nice as well! Rich is happy to share information about local swimming/hiking spots, which there are many of close by."
Herkimer diamond mining: At Crystal Grove Diamond Mine & Campground, visitors can search for unique quartz crystals. "Along with staying at this peaceful wooded campground, one can 'mine' Herkimer Diamond quartz crystals adjacent to the campground via a bridge over the stream," reports one camper. The mining area is accessible by walking or driving your vehicle to the site.
Biking forest trails: Explore the extensive trail systems connecting to many campsites. One visitor to DevilDoc Campsites remarked, "Lots of trails near by for biking or hiking. Property has an abundance of free firewood you can collect." The Peck Hill State Forest offers designated mountain biking trails accessible from County Road 101.
Winter activities: For those camping in colder months, Frosty Acres Campground provides winter options. "You'll have the entire mountain side all to yourself! Snowshoe, cross country ski. Winter campfires," writes one winter camper. The campground sits at approximately 1,409 feet elevation, offering panoramic views.
What campers like
Peaceful water features: The ponds at DevilDoc Campsites rate highly with visitors. One camper shared, "The land they share has a pond that is very secluded. We had tons of privacy as it is well clear of the host's home and neighbors." Another noted they "had the whole camp ground to myself so that was even better."
Spacious camping areas: Caroga Lake Campground provides generously sized sites. A visitor observed, "The campsites were spacious for two tents, a 4 and 2 person and there was space to have a run for two dogs." Sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables.
Lake access: Northampton Beach Campground offers waterfront options. "Large sites on huge lake perfect for kayaking. Few bugs," reports one camper. The campground features a swimming area and fishing opportunities directly from the shoreline.
Ice cream amenities: Royal Mountain Campsites features a popular ice cream shop at its entrance. "The 'office' is an ice cream shop off the side of the road that all the locals apparently love based on lines and what we tasted! We both ordered a small and it was near enough to consider a full meal!" notes an enthusiastic visitor.
What you should know
Water level changes: Some lakes in the region experience significant water level fluctuations. At Northampton Beach Campground, one visitor reports "large sites on huge lake perfect for kayaking." However, water levels can drop considerably during summer months.
Train noise at riverside sites: St. Johnsville Campsite and Marina sits along the Mohawk River but has nearby train tracks. "One night stay. Great sight. Friendly helpful staff. Only drawback is steady stream of trains going by around the clock. I didn't mind by my wife didn't sleep well," reports one camper.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Facilities range from primitive to well-maintained. At Caroga Lake Campground, a visitor noted, "The bathrooms and showers were typical of other campgrounds and not overly large however they were cleaned regularly and the water was hot which was great for the end of a long day."
Winter camping options: Limited winter camping exists in the region. At Frosty Acres Campground, "They have a small winter section. You'll have the entire mountain side all to yourself! Snowshoe, cross country ski. Winter campfires." Winter campers should note the elevation makes this location particularly windy.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Glimmerglass State Park Campground offers excellent water access. "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. The beach area is particularly spacious and well-maintained.
Activities for children: Several campgrounds offer recreation options for younger campers. At Frosty Acres Campground, there are "two ponds to fish in, one you can swim in, kid friendly small pool, horseshoes and huge field to hit golf balls in with 3 holes. Pet friendly. Kid friendly."
Themed weekends: Some campgrounds host special events throughout the season. A camper at Frosty Acres Campground mentioned, "Themed weekends and an annual car show." These events typically occur between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Plan for weather changes: The region experiences rapid weather shifts. At Royal Mountain Campsites, campers report significantly different experiences depending on time of year. Summer temperatures can reach the high 80s while dropping into the 40s overnight, particularly in spring and fall.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. At DevilDoc Campsites, one RVer noted, "We used his power source so we were near his home and site was level for the travel trailer. Slept great each night!!" Always bring leveling blocks as many sites require adjustment.
Electric hookup options: Several campgrounds offer electrical connections with varying amperage. At Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail, however, no hookups are available. "This is on the river with a nice view. Lots of trains rolling through across the river but the noise wasn't an issue for me," reports an RVer.
Water limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted water access. An RVer at DevilDoc Campsites shared this caution: "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." Check water availability when booking.
Winter accessibility: Most RV sites close for winter, but limited options exist. Hide-A-Way Campsites offers some access in shoulder seasons. "This is a small campground but very quiet and nice. The people that run it are very nice and accommodating," notes a visitor who found the gravel pads challenging for leveling.
