Cabin accommodations in the Herkimer area include a range of rustic to premium options nestled within the rolling hills of central New York's Mohawk Valley. The region experiences warm summers with average temperatures between 65-80°F and cold winters where mercury often drops below freezing. Many campgrounds close seasonally from late October through April due to harsh winter conditions that make cabin access difficult.
What to do
Tubing at West Canada Creek: West Canada Creek Campground offers tubing adventures directly from the property with an upstream shuttle service. "The creek is AMAZING. Both kid and adult friendly and it's free, just bring a tube or purchase for cheap at the camp store. Lazy river flow with some faster spots, truly a perfect way to spend the days in the sun, hawks flying overhead and refreshingly cool and shallow water," notes Julia P. about Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA.
Diamond mining: Crystal hunting remains a primary attraction near cabins in the Herkimer area. "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," shares Denise D. about her experience at Crystal Grove Diamond Mine & Campground.
Recreational activities: Many cabin sites offer multiple on-site activities. "The campground provides various amenities and facilities for campers. These may include spacious campsites suitable for tents and RVs, picnic tables, campfire rings, and clean restroom facilities," explains Luis R. about West Canada Creek Campground.
What campers like
Lakeside access: Glimmerglass State Park Campground provides cabin options near a pristine lake. "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. Trails for walking," writes Patti M. about Glimmerglass State Park Campground.
Peaceful settings: The cabins at DevilDoc Campsites offer a secluded experience. "We had the entire camp ground to ourselves so that was even better. It is definitely off the beaten path but we'll worth it if your just trying to escape a little bit. But Verizon does get service. There are some nearby trails that are within 15 minutes," shares Ashley L. about DevilDoc Campsites.
Cleanliness and maintenance: Most camping cabins near Herkimer maintain high standards. "Very clean 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 Jeani B. about Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most cabin rentals close during winter months. "Open 5/1/2020 - 10/31/2020" is listed for Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA, while Glimmerglass State Park operates "May 13 to October 9."
Reservation requirements: Cabin availability is limited, especially during peak season. "Sites are very easy to get into and well maintained. Water available and electric. The lake is pristine and wonderful to swim in," explains Patti M.
Varying amenities: Cabins range from basic to fully-equipped. "This campground is great, sites are spaced out very nicely, lots of things to do for everyone, a pool for the kids, shuffle board, disc golf, tubing, everything is organized,and nice and clean," says Lisa L. about Cooperstown KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with specific children's areas. "Very beautiful campground with tons of planned activities for the kids. Outdoor pool and clean shower/bathrooms. Lots of grass and shade," notes Jeani B.
Educational experiences: Diamond mining offers learning opportunities. "The mines are wonderful also if you'd want to search for your own Herkimer diamonds (clear doubles terminated quartz). Star gazing, falling asleep to the sound of the creek, lots of fun spaces for kids, inexpensive, etc.," explains Julia P.
Sports options: Many campgrounds include recreational facilities. "Clean...clean bathrooms...large sites lots of fun activities for the kids fishing and tubing on the creek...well stocked store reasonable prices...pool is clean well maintained...pet friendly...enclosed play area for pets...nice playground for the kids," reports renee M. about Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Royal Mountain Campsites offers larger spaces for RVs with cabins. "Site was HUGE! Website stated sites were 30Amp so very happy to have found 50Amp upon arrival! We paid for wood and the owner drove it to our site and gave us half a tree for $10!! Navigating the campground was easy," explains Brittany V.
Utilities available: Most cabin areas provide electric options. "This park is located approximately 12.5 miles from downtown Cooperstown and is set in the quiet rural countryside of New York. The mature trees make for beautiful scenery in the fall. There is a mix of sites varying from tent, RV, rental trailers, and camping cabins/cottages/lodges," explains Nancy W. about Cooperstown KOA.
Off-season considerations: Some cabins offer extended availability. "We spent three nights here. The staff is fabulous. 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," notes Kelly F.
