Cabin camping near Laurens, New York offers access to the region's mixed hardwood forests and rolling terrain at elevations ranging between 1,100-1,600 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with colorful fall foliage from mid-September through October and summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Winter cabin rentals remain available at select locations when temperatures drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Gilbert Lake State Park features multiple ponds and streams for anglers. "I've been camping at Gilbert lake for 35 or so years. There's miles of hiking trails including one around the lake," notes a visitor. Another camper mentions "Lots of wildlife, coyotes howling in the distance at night and plenty of deer."
Baseball heritage exploration: Cooperstown KOA provides convenient lodging for Baseball Hall of Fame visitors. "Cooperstown is a little over twelve miles away from the park but well worth a trip. Not only is Cooperstown home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame but it is a charming downtown well worth exploring," reports one camper. The campground offers "a mix of sites varying from tent, RV, rental trailers, and camping cabins/cottages/lodges."
Winter activities: When summer crowds disperse, some cabins remain operational for cold-weather recreation. Cross-country skiing trails become accessible directly from cabin doorsteps, particularly at select state parks. Many winterized cabins feature wood stoves or enhanced heating systems for comfortable off-season stays.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Glimmerglass State Park Campground offers secluded cabin options. "The campsites are pretty secluded. Best of all, you can bring your pets!" notes one reviewer. Another mentions, "The sites are a great size for accommodating two tents and have many people gather at meals."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms across cabin locations. "Clean, modern bathrooms. Campsites were raked and ready for us when we arrived," reports a visitor at Cooperstown Beaver Valley Campground. Another notes, "The bathrooms are impeccable, the grounds are groomed, well kept and clean."
Natural settings: Cabins typically feature outdoor fire rings and picnic areas positioned to maximize natural surroundings. "Very quiet over in the 100 acre woods section so nice for a couples camping trip!" notes a camper at Hartwick Highlands. Another visitor describes "a big lake that is very built up for swimmers and has a playground, water sport rentals and more."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Cabins fill quickly, especially during baseball tournament season. "Although there may be times when there may be people and groups around for day use, the small number of cabins and they way they are spread out will make you feel like you are at your own private retreat," notes a camper at Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park.
Cell service variability: Reception differs significantly between locations and carriers. One Gilbert Lake visitor reports, "We had better than average cell phone service near/in the cabin with AT&T." Meanwhile, a camper at Glimmerglass notes strong "WiFi worked well as did our Verizon 4G phone and hotspot."
Kitchen supplies: Inventory what's provided before arrival. Many cabins supply cooking equipment while others require you bring your own. Stores in nearby towns stock essentials, though prices run higher than in larger communities. Some locations offer firewood sales on-site.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Crazy Acres Campground at Beaver Spring Lake offers water recreation for children. "We had fun, plenty of activities, a big lake to fish in and a pool to relax by. Nighttime family fun as well," reports one family. Another visitor notes, "Kids were constantly busy and happy."
Playground access: Many cabin locations feature dedicated play areas for children. "Great place to bring the family!" notes a Gilbert Lake camper, who adds "There are a couple different sections to choose from... There is a big lake that is very built up for swimmers and has a playground, water sport rentals and more."
Sports facilities: Several campgrounds maintain baseball diamonds, volleyball courts, and open fields for family recreation. Cooperstown Beaver Valley Campground features "nicely kept baseball fields," while another visitor notes "pools, corn hole, volleyball net" among the amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Deer Haven Campground and Cabins offers both cabin and RV options. "Stayed during the week and was able to get a more secluded, wooded site. (Most of them are pretty open)," notes one camper. "Nice walking trail around the property through woods and field. Convenient WSE hookup right at site."
Parking limitations: Cooperstown restricts large vehicle parking, which affects day trip planning. "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," advises an experienced visitor.
Utility considerations: Some locations experience occasional water pressure fluctuations. "One annoyance is the water pressure seemed to drop on occasion and one night was low for quite a while due to the pool being filled," notes a KOA visitor, adding "However, we did get a few hours warning via text message, which was nice."
