129 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The Hubbardsville area in central New York features several state forests with primitive camping opportunities alongside developed campgrounds with modern amenities. Charles E. Baker State Forest offers free primitive camping with designated sites that include fire pits and picnic tables, while Whaupaunaucau State Forest provides dispersed camping in a more remote setting. Within a 20-mile radius, campers can find RV-friendly options like Lake Chalet Motel and Campground in Bridgewater or the more extensive Lebanon Reservoir Campground near Hamilton, both offering water and electric hookups alongside tent sites.
Road conditions in the region vary significantly between the well-maintained state highways and the rougher forest access roads. A visitor noted that Charles E. Baker State Forest is "accessed at the end of a long, but well maintained, dirt road," making it accessible for most vehicles. State forests typically require camping permits that should be secured in advance from the New York Department of Environmental Conservation, particularly for group camping in wildlife management areas. The camping season generally runs from May through October, with some facilities closing after Columbus Day weekend. Weather considerations include potential heavy rainfall in spring and early summer that can create muddy conditions on unpaved roads and trails.
Many primitive campsites in the area's state forests provide water access, which campers frequently highlight in their reviews. At Whaupaunaucau State Forest, a visitor described it as having "lovely hilly vistas, pondside glens, and lots of clearings near clear streams deep in this old stately forest." Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area features 15 drive-in campsites widely spaced in the woods, plus walk-in sites along the west shore of the pond. Sites with water views tend to be most popular, particularly for fishing and paddling opportunities. Campers seeking more amenities gravitate toward Lebanon Reservoir Campground, where the sites are described as "mostly level" with "hookups well located and modern," though they offer less privacy than forest sites. Wildlife viewing, hiking trails, and fishing access represent common highlights across both primitive and developed camping areas.
"Only found one designated campsite, which was available, but there’s a lot of good space for dispersed camping right nearby. Access at the end of a long, but well maintained, dirt road."
"Beautiful forest with miles of trails. I found this spot passing through on my bike and had no problem pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the woods."
"There is also a famous Inn and restaurant, the Landmark Inn, which anchors the town, adjacent to a trailhead for a hiking trail along the historic Chenango Canal, an offshoot of the Erie Canal. "
"The first time that myself and friends spent the weekend at Lake Chalet Ron cut up our firewood for us and was very attentive to anything around the campground."
"The lake is good sized and clean. The property has beautiful fields and a creek that runs along the back. This is not a party campground and people are not packed in on top of each other."
"The lake is a fascinating meromictic lake with clear calcium-rich waters that are not only pristine and beautiful to look at, but also great for swimming and snorkeling as the waters are crystal clear"
"The sites are nice, some are little close to each other but nice for group camping. A short distance (walk or by car) to the beach. The lake is a little chilly sometimes but very refreshing."
from $20 - $116 / night
Check Availability"The spots are big and great walks as well if you have dogs. Easy access to the pond too. 20 minutes to waterfall state park & there is a maple shop not too far as well for treats etc."
"There are 15 drive-in campsites widely spaced and set into the woods, and two developed walk-in sites on the west shore."
"The sites themselves are all in the open, imagine parallel parking your rig off the side of a road, with a nice forest behind you. That's kind of the deal here."
"For activities, there are some great hikes around the campground, as well as excellent playgrounds, fishing, an awesome pool, and of course, free shuttle rides to the Turning Stone Casino right up the"
"Pool and walking paths were well kept. Dog waste stations were available but the park didn't have a dog park. Bummer for fino."
from $65 - $75 / night
Check Availability"The campground is still being minimally maintained as a group of 8 drive-in campsites on the north side, and 4 other scattered sites on the east and of the pond."
"Gilbert Lake State Park is located about 11 miles north of Oneonta, New York. I have camped here for a number of summers at their Hilltop Section, never dissapointed."
"Two entrances, one to the kitchen and the other to the porch. Outside was a fire ring. An easy hike to a nearby lake was very pretty."
from $17 - $156 / night
Check Availability"This is a relatively unknown oasis outside of the county, but this state forest has a network of miles of trails for both hiking and criss country skiing."
ScoutRiverbend East was a nice stop during our trip through central New York. Our site needed a couple of leveling blocks, which is completely normal with our RV, and once we were settled everything worked out perfectly. The water and sewer hookups were convenient, the showers were available when we needed them, and the campground had a calm, outdoorsy atmosphere. We would stay here again when traveling through the area.
ScoutThe sites are spacious, the campground feels natural and wooded, and there is enough room to enjoy your own space. We have met some wonderful people and look forward to coming back each week.
ScoutWe decided to bring our camper to Riverbend East for the whole season this year, and it has been a great experience. The campers around us have been friendly, and the campground has a relaxed community feel.
ScoutThis is our second season at Riverbend East, and it has really become our summer home away from home. Our lot is large enough that we have been able to make the site comfortable without feeling crowded by the campers around us. We love the trees, the peaceful atmosphere, and being close to the water. It is nice knowing that whenever we have a free weekend, our camper is already set up and waiting for us.
GuideThe bathrooms were nice and clean and the pool looked nice. Mostly seasonal campers and Cooperstown tourists. Very crowded and packed into spots tight. The golf carts are out of control…flying by, loud music and flashing lights until midnight. Even the amount of traffic coming in and out of the campground went on until midnight with head lights shining in camper windows. I will take being woken to loons on the lake any day, this was loud and crowded.
GuideWe had a great stay at Oneida Shores Campground. Over the weekend it was nearly full, but it never felt crowded. The other campers were friendly and there were no issues. At 10 pm, it got very quiet, no issues. The newly paved sites are level. The grounds are well kept. I wouldn't say the sites were too close together. We had plenty of room. The tent area is shaded by trees, the rv section is not. We encountered several park employees, all were very friendly and helpful. Never saw any geese. The only negative is that the showers and restrooms need a deep clean and upgrade, but they were serviceable.
TravelerThis campground is beautiful. The lake is good sized and clean. The property has beautiful fields and a creek that runs along the back. This is not a party campground and people are not packed in on top of each other. The little store is cute & affordable and the owners are on site 24/7.
ScoutSpace was adequate with both shade and some sun, trash service and shuttle service was a plus . Pool and walking paths were well kept. Dog waste stations were available but the park didn't have a dog park. Bummer for fino.
GuideThis place is ab awesome getaway. It was so peaceful and quiet, not like some of the other campgrounds. The new owners are trying to make it all natural nature. They have a small trail around the campground, where you can see the creek and narure. While we were there, I saw 2 beautiful pheasants and rabbits. It was just what we needed, a nice quiet getaway and we will be back
Camping near Hubbardsville, New York offers opportunities for both primitive forest experiences and developed sites with amenities. The region sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in central New York's rolling hills, with seasonal temperature variations that create ideal camping conditions from late spring through early fall. Local state forests feature a mix of hardwood and conifer stands, creating diverse habitats for wildlife viewing.
Fishing at multiple locations: Several camping areas provide access to well-stocked ponds and lakes. At Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area, "There is a small boat launch meant for canoes and kayaks and small non motorized fishing boats, alongside a gravel peninsula for shore fishing."
Hiking network exploration: Miles of interconnected trails run through the region's forests. The Whaupaunaucau State Forest "has a network of miles of trails for both hiking and cross country skiing" and offers opportunities for "botanizing or birding, lots of unusual species to see."
Disc golf: Several parks in the region offer courses for disc golf enthusiasts. Gilbert Lake State Park Campground has "a disc golf course, many pavilions, a decent beach with concessions, a walking trail all the way are the lake and it's accessible from multiple points."
Paddling opportunities: Many sites offer boat rentals or launch areas. One camper at Green Lakes State Park Campground noted, "You can rent a kayak and enjoy the beautiful lake. There are miles of trails to explore."
Unique water features: The region has distinctive bodies of water. At Green Lakes State Park, "The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands. We visit this park very frequently to rent a boat or to hike the trails."
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at several campgrounds. At Hunts Pond State Forest, "the campsites are large and nicely spaced on a beautiful lake in a secluded but easily accessible location."
Off-grid seclusion: The more primitive sites appeal to those seeking quiet. Whaupaunaucau State Forest has "an official lean-to shelter and developed campsite on trail 20 (see map) but there are several primitive sites with tent site and stone fireplace."
Natural diversity: The varying terrain creates different camping environments. Stoney Pond State Forest features "15 drive-in campsites widely spaced and set into the woods, and two developed walk-in sites on the west shore."
Permit requirements: Some areas require advance planning. At Hunts Pond State Forest, "These are free sites that you need to call to get a permit."
Bathroom facilities vary: From none to modern facilities. As one camper at Gilbert Lake State Park Campground noted, "The Shower/bathroom buildings are a bit dated but well maintained."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. At Gilbert Lake, "Cell signal is not great in most places except the sites 'on top of the hill'."
Tick awareness: Insect precautions are necessary in warmer months. A visitor to Whaupaunaucau State Forest warned, "Just beware of ticks, they are invading the region."
Seasonal algae concerns: Water quality varies by season at some lakes. A visitor to Gilbert Lake noted, "A major problem at this park is the recent development of a toxic algae problem in the lake. Because of algae blooms during warm weather, swimming and fishing in Gilbert Lake are now prohibited."
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated play areas for children. At Green Lakes State Park, "Beach also has a great playground for kids that is perfect for play and swim."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing provides learning experiences. One camper at Green Lakes mentioned, "Lots of wildlife, coyotes howling in the distance at night and plenty of deer."
Cabin alternatives: For families wanting more comfort, several parks offer cabins. Lebanon Reservoir Campground "also have cabins which are well thought out and nice!"
Swimming options: Developed beaches with lifeguards provide safer swimming for children. At Gilbert Lake State Park, there's "a nice beach with lifeguards for swimming" and it's "a great place for the family as they can be a bit strict on unruly behavior."
Hookup availability: Electrical options are expanding at some parks. At Gilbert Lake State Park, "They're finally adding a bunch of electric sites and have discontinued every other site in the deer run area. This makes the sites very large. There's 30 and 50 amp hookups."
Site levelness: The terrain affects how easy parking will be. At Lebanon Reservoir Campground, "Sites are mostly level, but some did slant quite a bit. Hookups are well located and modern."
Access road conditions: Road quality varies significantly between parks. While some campgrounds have paved access, others require more careful navigation for larger rigs, especially after rain when forest roads can become muddy.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer full services. Lebanon Reservoir Campground has sanitary dump facilities, while many state forest camping areas have no services, requiring self-contained waste management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Hubbardsville, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, Hubbardsville, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 129 campgrounds and RV parks near Hubbardsville, NY and 13 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Hubbardsville, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hubbardsville, NY is Charles E. Baker State Forest with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hubbardsville, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 free dispersed camping spots near Hubbardsville, NY.
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