Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout the Cold Brook region, with primitive sites available at North Lake Reservoir approximately 30 miles north of town. The Adirondack foothills terrain creates varied camping conditions ranging from lakeside sites to forest settings along West Canada Creek. Most dispersed areas operate seasonally from mid-April through mid-October, with road access becoming difficult during spring thaw when mud can make routes impassable even for higher clearance vehicles.
What to do
Tube down West Canada Creek: West Canada Creek Campground offers tubing experiences with shuttle service. "They have a tubing business on property with an upstream shuttle as well as an ice cream stand! There is a playground with slides and swings as well as a swimming pool. There is a beach volleyball court, half court basketball and horseshoe pits," notes a camper from West Canada Creek Campground.
Mine for Herkimer diamonds: The unique quartz crystals found in this region are accessible to visitors. "The mines are so much fun. Some of the sites are crowded but each site has plenty of space. The whole park is well maintained. Lots of room to walk our dogs. We will visit again," writes a reviewer from Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA.
Kayak on peaceful lakes: Several reservoir areas offer non-motorized boating. "Stayed in the tent area with mature trees giving plenty of shade even at mid day. Two boat ramps for easy launching and quick retrieval of your motor boats. The lake is a flooded area foaming a reservoir stocked with game fish as bass, perch, and pike," according to a visitor at Delta Lake State Park.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Many campgrounds feature water access directly from sites. "Very beautiful campground with tons of planned activities for the 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," reports a camper at Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA.
Natural swimming areas: The region offers both natural and maintained swimming options. "The beautiful beach is well attended with life guards on duty keeping you safe but still allowing much fun on the very clean white sand," writes a visitor to Delta Lake State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Many established campgrounds maintain high standards for facilities. "Big Rig friendly! We have a 37ft fifth wheel & fit into our site no problem! Good cell reception & tons to do near by. But I highly recommend checking out their beach area- beyond gorgeous!" shares a camper at Nicks Lake Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal popularity: Reservations are essential, especially for summer weekends. "Their themed weekends and accompanying activities throughout the season are wonderful. We had the pleasure of staying for Labor Day weekend in which they had a kids carnival set up among many other things. Their Halloween weekend is truly a must see, with wagon rides and trick-or-treating!" according to a camper at West Canada Creek Campground.
Variable road conditions: Access to more remote sites requires planning. "32 sites all around the lake. Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean. Make sure to take a left at the start of the lake, the right is all private road and you will have to turn around," advises a visitor to North Lake Reservoir Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Bears and other wildlife are active in the area. "You can catch sight of deer or a bear at any moment. Just keep in mind to maintain a safe distance and respect their space!" notes a camper at Nicks Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Book weekend-themed activities: Special events are scheduled throughout the season. "We have been returning to this campground for 5 years. Our weekend of choice is always sold out. The staff have a wonderful event set up and the river drop/Run is fantastic. Nice sized sites and space for your family to play," shares a family that stays at West Canada Creek Campground.
Consider sites with playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer activities for children. "They offer a children's playground, pool, little grocery store, volleyball area, and of course, the Herkimer Diamond Mine and restaurant, right across the street," explains a reviewer at Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA.
Look for lakes with lifeguards: Supervised swimming areas offer peace of mind. "The beach is manned by a lifeguard until 6pm and is very well maintained. We love bringing the kids here without worrying about loud crazy campers up until all hours of the night," notes a family at Nicks Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Select appropriate campgrounds for rig size: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "For larger rigs, largest site was too short for mine. Pot holes in the campground road are so bad that it caused damage to my trailer," warns an RVer at Spruce Creek Campground.
Check hookup types before booking: Available services vary widely between campgrounds. "We stayed on three different sites (2 partial hookups, 1 full hookup). Each site was level and easily accessible," reports a camper at West Canada Creek Campground.
Consider seasonal options: Long-term stays are available at some campgrounds. "Great spot close to the Adirondacks, mountain biking and climbing not far away. We actually have a seasonal spot, but there is a wide variety of options. Sites are large! Bathrooms are new and clean," shares an RVer at Spruce Creek Campground.
