Upstate New York offers diverse terrain for yurt camping near New Berlin, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,900 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with moderate rainfall throughout summer months, making May through October the primary camping season. The area's mix of woodlands, lakes, and fields creates varied camping experiences within a 30-mile radius.
What to do
Lake activities at Bowman Lake: The 36-acre lake at Bowman Lake State Park provides multiple water recreation options from May through early October. "The swimming beach soaking up the sun and cool refreshing water. As fisherman we loved that the rangers told us that the lake was regularly stocked with trout and other game fish," writes Brian O.
Baseball history tours: Located 15 miles from Cooperstown KOA, Cooperstown's Baseball Hall of Fame draws many summer visitors. "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," notes Jim G.
Hiking woodland trails: Multiple trails for day hiking wind through the region's state parks and campgrounds. "The hiking includes an easy 3.1 mile loop with much shade around two glacier formed turquoise lakes," Sheri S. mentions about Green Lakes State Park, while Gerald L. notes Bowman Lake's trails "were not all that great and provided only minor enjoyment."
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Bowman Lake State Park offers heavily wooded sites with good separation between campers. "This campsite was beautiful. It was very secluded and in the woods, right next to the lake as well. I enjoyed how spread out this campground is compared to most," explains Katarina M.
Yurt camping options: The New Berlin area includes several yurt accommodation choices at My Friends Place, offering a comfortable alternative to traditional tent camping. "My Friend's Place is a great spot to enjoy a peaceful glamping experience," notes Jake C. about the property that features six cabins and yurt accommodations.
Clean facilities: Campground bathrooms and showers receive positive feedback from most visitors. "Clean. Friendly staff. People respect the quiet hours which was really appreciated as we had a couple early mornings," Rebecca F. shares about her Cooperstown KOA experience, while Gerald L. comments on "Very clean facilities!" at Bowman Lake.
What you should know
Limited shower facilities: Some campgrounds have centralized bathhouses that can mean waiting during peak times. "Only downside was it had just one central bathroom for the whole campground having to wait for shower stalls was a little issue but very hot water even after waiting which was good," notes Pedro R. about Bowman Lake.
Site conditions vary: Green Lakes State Park offers various site types but some visitors note issues with setup. "The sites are good, level, and the campsite is pretty but as clean as the bathrooms are, the showers still suck. I'll never understand why parks use the misting shower heads," Chelsea B. comments.
Weather considerations: The region can experience significant rainfall that affects camping conditions. "Our entire campsite was flooded so we just set up our tent on my brothers site with them. Ended up being wonderful and the lake was beautiful," Kelly J. shared about their Bowman Lake experience.
Tips for camping with families
Beach-based activities: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming beaches with amenities. At Deer Haven Campground, families can enjoy water activities alongside wildlife viewing. "We had a great time and saw deer on our site a few mornings!" shares Loryn B.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play equipment for children. "The beach also has a great playground for kids that is perfect for play and swim. Dogs are welcome," notes Kelly J. about Green Lakes, while Bowman Lake visitors mentioned "the kids were missing a playground."
Transportation considerations: When visiting area attractions with children, note parking and shuttle options. "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," Nancy W. explains.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Unadilla KOA and other area campgrounds may require leveling equipment. "It was a good thing that we had friendly neighbors as we could step from our camper into theirs," Sarah S. notes about tight conditions at this campground.
Electrical options: Check amperage availability at sites before booking. "Sites range from typical large rig to dispersed tents next to a creek. The tent sites with electric like the one we took used 240v 50A plugs, so we had to borrow a converter plug from the office for our 120v equipment," Deborah W. explains about her Unadilla KOA experience.
Late season camping: For RV campers planning fall trips for foliage viewing, some facilities remain open through mid-October. "With the autumn foliage, it was a spectacular camp site. No problems getting out 40ft coach parked. Very quiet stay," Laura H. shares about Unadilla KOA's stream-side setting.
