Camping sites near Jordanville, New York sit within the rolling hills of central New York at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,500 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F during peak camping months (June-August). Winter snowfall can exceed 100 inches annually, limiting access to many camping areas from November through April.
What to do
Fishing for variety: At Spruce Creek Campground, access to the namesake creek provides excellent fishing opportunities. One visitor noted, "Our older son went fishing" in the creek that runs alongside the property.
Diamond hunting: Crystal hunting at Crystal Grove Diamond Mine & Campground offers a unique activity not found at most campsites. "Looking for adventure this is a place to find it. 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," explains one reviewer.
Water recreation: Tubing is popular at several campgrounds in the area. At Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA, "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."
What campers like
Waterfront camping: St. Johnsville Campsite and Marina offers riverside sites at affordable rates. "Had everything we needed for a night's stay. Some sites have picnic tables. Others don't. Showers and bathrooms are available. Sunrise was quite nice on the river," reports one camper.
Wooded privacy: Several campers praise the secluded sites available in the region. At Crystal Grove, a visitor mentioned their "site was next to the creek and relaxed to the quiet sound of water flowing by."
Budget-friendly options: Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail offers free dispersed camping with basic amenities. "It's a parking lot with a view. The parking area is right on the water... There are grills in the grassy area for tent camping, also a potable water tap," writes a reviewer.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds in the Jordanville area operate from mid-April through mid-October. At Cooperstown KOA, the season runs "Apr 18 to Oct 15" according to their listing information.
Train noise: Several campgrounds near the Mohawk River have nearby train tracks. At St. Johnsville Campsite and Marina, "A train track is close by so it can be kind of noisy," notes one camper. Similarly, at Fort Plain Lock 15, visitors report "sounds of the highway and freight trains going by."
Water pressure issues: Some campsites experience utility challenges. One camper at Cooperstown Shadow Brook Campground reported, "water pressure seemed to drop on occasion and one night was low for quite a while due to the pool being filled."
Limited cell service: While not universal, several campsites have spotty connectivity. Cooperstown KOA has notably good service with one camper reporting "The WiFi is very good-- modern and surprising speeds (60Mbps) and cell phone for AT&T was decent."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA receives high marks for family amenities. One visitor described "a children's playground, pool, little grocery store, volleyball area, basketball court, jump house, pavilion, recreation room," making it ideal for active families.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming in natural water bodies rather than pools. Glimmerglass State Park Campground has "a nice beach. I have brought my dog swimming and hiking several times. The beach is great and well kept," according to a visitor.
Mining activities: Educational opportunities abound with gem mining. Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA visitors often combine camping with educational experiences: "This was part of our gemstone trip which including sluicing, diamond mining, visiting the gemstone museum, then we stopped at Howe Caverns on the way home."
Budget constraints: For families watching costs, Fort Plain Lock 15 offers free camping with essential amenities. "Simply it's a parking lot with a view... There are grills in the grassy area for tent camping, also a potable water tap."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: The terrain around Jordanville can present challenges for larger rigs. At Spruce Creek Campground, a visitor warned, "Not good 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."
Electrical options: Power availability varies across campgrounds. Glimmerglass State Park Campground offers "Electricity and water available at or near each campsite," which a camper found convenient for their setup.
Satellite reception: Tree coverage affects satellite signal at many campgrounds. Cooperstown KOA has "a fair amount of trees that would interfere with roof-mounted satellite dishes so you would have to pick your site carefully. But, there are some 30 amp and no hook-up sites that are clear."
Parking restrictions: Cooperstown has special considerations for larger vehicles. "You can't park any vehicle over 20' in Cooperstown, but you can park for free (even a motorhome) in the Yellow Lot and take the Trolley into town for $2.50. Super convenient!"
