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.
What to do
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."
What campers like
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."
What you should know
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."
Tips for camping with families
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."
Tips from RVers
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.
