The New Berlin area of New York features rugged, wooded terrain ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 feet in elevation within the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Several state forests offer primitive camping sites that remain open year-round, while developed campgrounds near New Berlin NY typically operate from mid-May through early October. The region experiences significant temperature variations, with summer days often reaching the 80s but dropping into the 50s at night.
What to do
Hiking at Charles E. Baker State Forest: Access miles of secluded trails through dense woodland. "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," notes Matt A. from Charles E. Baker State Forest.
Swimming at Gilbert Lake State Park: The park offers a supervised beach area with changing facilities. "I've been here so many times, camping in tents and also in the cabins. There is a big lake that is very built up for swimmers and has a playground, water sport rentals and more," says Sierra K. from Gilbert Lake State Park Campground.
Baseball activities near Cooperstown: Several campgrounds provide baseball-themed amenities due to proximity to Cooperstown. "Beaver Valley Campground is family owned and operated, originally a baseball camp, it still has that baseball draw for those families whose youngsters are playing at the Field of Dreams," explains Louise R.
What campers like
Wooded seclusion in spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer privacy between sites. "Campground is a maze of campsites through densely wooded forests so it's pretty private and shady even though it's full no matter what season we visited," describes Kim B. about Bowman Lake State Park Campground.
Cabin amenities at Gilbert Lake: The cabins provide substantial indoor space. "Spacious cabin was clean and comfortable. Two bedrooms, one with bunk beds and another with a full. There were dressers in each room. Also in the main room with a fireplace, futon, and table with benches," shares W L.
Free primitive camping options: Several state forests offer no-cost camping. "These are free sites that you need to call to get a permit," explains Stacy W. about Hunts Pond State Forest, while Cameron from Charles E. Baker State Forest adds, "Only giving 4 stars because the best free sites have water pumps and vault toilets, but this is a great camping experience."
What you should know
Facility variations between sites: Amenities differ substantially between state forests and parks. "Only found one designated campsite, which was available, but there's a lot of good space for dispersed camping right nearby. Campsite consists of a fire pit and picnic table. Some litter, not too bad. No toilets," reports Cameron.
Seasonal closures: Most developed campgrounds have limited seasons. "We went up for a weekend trip. Tent camping. Site was sufficiently private and tucked away, but water/bathrooms/showers were close enough. Very clean facilities! Really enjoyed the kayaking and beach area," notes Gerald L.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely. "We had better than average cell phone service near/in the cabin with AT&T," reports W L. about Gilbert Lake, while at Cooperstown Family Campground, Jason notes, "The wifi and mobile data were atrocious, which sucked when we were trying to plan out our travels."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for children. "Great place to bring the family! There are also volleyball courts and horseshoes," notes Sierra K. about Gilbert Lake, while Eric L. describes Cooperstown Beaver Valley Campground as having "2 swimming pools, really nice playground for the younger kids, 2 baseball fields."
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities. "Pick this park has it was going to be my sons first trip camping. It's a smaller park with a small hiking trail around the lake there is swimming at the lake with lifeguards, only down side was it had just one central bathroom for the whole campground," advises Pedro R.
Water activities: Lakes provide recreational options. "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," explains Patti M. about Glimmerglass State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site layout challenges: Some campgrounds have awkward utility placement. "My main complaints were the pedestals where we were were in the bushes directly behind the campers, and unfortunately for me my hookups are towards the front of my camper so I had to pull in sideways to reach the pedestal," explains Jason at Cooperstown Family Campground.
Limited deep sites: Larger RVs may struggle at certain campgrounds. "Newer sites are on a narrow road and not deep enough for TT over the length of 22-25ft or you won't have any room for towing vehicle and to sit outside your camper," cautions Kimberly H.
Seasonal site conditions: Weather impacts ground firmness. "Our site was all grass, which was fine, but would be a problem if it was raining," notes Joel R. about Cooperstown Family Campground.
