Forestport, New York sits at the gateway to the Adirondack Mountains with an elevation around 1,300 feet. The camping season runs primarily from May through mid-October, with summer high temperatures averaging 75-80°F. Late summer camping often coincides with peak fishing opportunities as water levels in local lakes and reservoirs stabilize.
What to do
Kayaking on connected waterways: At Kayuta Lake Campground and Marina, visitors can enjoy direct water access for paddling. "The lake linked to a river was great for kayaking and fishing," noted Paummi S., who appreciated the connectivity between water bodies during their 4-night stay.
Diamond mining adventures: Herkimer Diamond Mine offers a unique regional activity where visitors can mine for double-terminated quartz crystals. "Across the road from a do it yourself quartz mine. Plenty of things to do including tubing the west Canada river. Easy in easy out for the tubing," reports Secc P. from their stay.
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds maintain recreation areas with disc golf courses. One reviewer at Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA specifically mentioned "Very beautiful campground with tons of planned activities for kids. Outdoor pool and clean shower/bathrooms. Lots of grass and shade. Very nice sites that are easy to get in/out of. Well stocked camp store."
Water sports on multiple lakes: The region features numerous bodies of water for swimming and boating. "The beach area is wide and shallow in most areas, in close proximity to the store and snack shop (ICE CREAM). Just past the swimming area is boat rentals ($7/hr for row boat rental)," explains Sheri S., who visited Green Lakes State Park.
What campers like
Natural water features: Campers consistently praise the distinctive water experiences. At Green Lakes State Park Campground, Kenneth S. described, "The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands." Many campers noted the unique clarity and color of local lakes.
Privacy of waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer direct lake or river access. "We spent 4 nights here in our 27 ft toy hauler with 2 dogs. Sites were roomy and many are seasonal. The lake linked to a river was great for kayaking and fishing," shared a visitor at Kayuta Lake, appreciating the space between sites.
Winter and shoulder season options: Some facilities operate beyond peak summer months. Jason D. reported about Kayuta Lake: "There is a small pool but was closed because we were camping in October. Very nice quiet campground. Bathrooms are a little old but very clean. Had fun shooting archery targets."
Free dispersed camping opportunities: Stillwater Reservoir provides no-cost camping with notable waterfront locations. "Even in cold rainy weather we had a phenomenal time at Stillwater. Our spot had gorgeous waterfront to it, a stone fire circle where someone had left extra fire wood, and ample trees," according to Elizabeth B., who camped there during unusual weather conditions.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: While glamping close to Forestport, New York typically requires advance booking, some campgrounds operate on first-come systems. "I called and booked ahead of time knowing I'd arrive late and leave early, which was absolutely no problem," shared Meghan B. about Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground.
Water access often requires equipment: At Stillwater Reservoir, most sites require boats to reach. "I came here a couple days ago only to realize that all except one campsite needs a boat to be reached. It's first come first serve so best to find another place if you intend to drive up to your campsite," advised Kane.
Campground terrain varies significantly: Some sites present challenges for certain equipment. One reviewer at Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground noted: "Best for tents, camper vans or really small RV. Electric and water only on lower sites. Very steep driveway."
Shower facilities differ by location: While most established campgrounds provide showers, quality varies. At Delta Lake State Park Campground, visitors mentioned complete bathroom facilities including showers, while at Little Sand Point a reviewer noted shower maintenance issues: "The bathrooms during my visit were really in bad condition in terms of cleanliness."
Tips for camping with families
Look for organized activities: Several campgrounds schedule regular events. At Kayuta Lake, Jason D. noted, "Had fun shooting archery targets. They also have lazer tag but we didn't participate. Hayride later on tonight. Definitely a return weekend trip next year."
Consider beach quality for children: Little Sandpoint Campground offers family-friendly water access. "Nice spot! We stayed two nights during the week. There were plenty of available sites to choose from and it was a really easy place to show up to and find a spot to settle quick," shared Erica R., highlighting how suitable the lakeside sites were for families.
Check playground facilities: Delta Lake State Park recently upgraded their recreation areas. "They have recently added electricity to the sites and a new playground at the beach. The concession stand at the beach will deliver to your camp site," reported Amy W., pointing out family-friendly amenities.
Evaluate swimming options: Swimming areas vary from natural lake edges to maintained beaches. At Glimmerglass State Park, Carrie J. shared: "Awesome beach camping experience. It's a beautiful campground and the campsites are pretty secluded. Best of all, you can bring your pets!"
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: While glamping accommodations close to Forestport, New York often feature spacious layouts, traditional RV sites can be tight. "The roadways can get a little tight between the trees, and can make for some interesting backing in. Also, the roadways are mostly one-way, which can make getting creative with your trailer landing position tough," advised a reviewer at Kayuta Lake.
Hookup availability: Electric access has been expanded at several parks. At Delta Lake State Park Campground, Eric G. noted, "This state park is on the site of a lake created by a dam. The park has a boat ramp, beach, some easy hiking, and recently added electricity to all the sites. Very popular area."
Seasonal site options: Many campgrounds offer long-term arrangements. "Treasure Isle is nice and quiet. The sites are a good size with water and electric on each site. There is a dumping station to use, some sewer sites," reported Heather R., who appreciated the dedicated dump station during their stay.
Level site availability: Terrain throughout the region can present challenges. At Little Sand Point, one camper mentioned: "LSP on Piseco Lake is just ok. The RV sites are tiny and close together. The majority of tent sites on the water are uneven."
