Cabins near New Hartford, New York provide access to both the Adirondack foothills and Mohawk Valley region. Summer daytime temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, while winter months can see regular snowfall with temperatures dropping below freezing. The region's glacial lakes, particularly Green Lakes and Glimmerglass, feature distinctive blue-green waters due to their depth and mineral content.
What to do
Tubing adventures: At West Canada Creek Campground, visitors can float down the creek with tube rentals and an upstream shuttle service. According to a camper, "We had the pleasure of staying for Labor Day weekend in which they had a kids carnival set up among many other things. Their Halloween weekend is truly a must see, with wagon rides and trick-or-treating!"
Diamond mining: Across from Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA, visitors can search for Herkimer diamonds (clear double-terminated quartz crystals). "The mines are so much fun," says one reviewer. "We spent three nights here. The staff is fabulous. The mines are so much fun. Some of the sites are crowded but each site has plenty of space."
Fishing and boating: Lake Chalet Motel and Campground sits on a small pond perfect for fishing. A visitor notes, "Nice place with swimming, fishing, and other things to do. Nice people. The sites by the road have noise from the road which is busier than you might think. Wifi was good."
What campers like
Scenic lakefront sites: At Verona Beach State Park Campground, waterfront sites offer direct lake access. A reviewer shared, "We stayed at site 11. As you can see sites are spacious and this one was right on the lake's edge." Another camper mentioned, "You are essentially on the water. Nice clean facilities."
Family-friendly amenities: Cooperstown KOA offers numerous activities for children. "Super relaxing and 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," notes one camper. Another visitor added, "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."
Peaceful environment: Green Lakes State Park Campground provides a quiet setting with unique lakes. A visitor commented, "Very unique camp right outside of the city. The lake is beautiful with green/blue hue in which the park gets its name. The hike around the lake is about 2 miles and totally worth it!"
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most cabin rentals need advance booking, especially for themed weekends. At West Canada Creek Campground, "Their Halloween weekend is truly a must see... This weekend like many others fill up nearly a year in advance. Return guests reserve their spot the following year before they even check out."
Shower facilities: Shower amenities vary between campgrounds. One visitor to Kayuta Lake Campground noted, "Bathrooms are a little old but very clean," while at Green Lakes, a camper mentioned, "The bathrooms have been remodeled and most are private with a toilet, shower and sink."
Cell service and WiFi: Connectivity differs by location. A Cooperstown KOA visitor reported, "The WiFi is very good—modern and surprising speeds (60Mbps) and cell phone for AT&T was decent." At Lake Chalet Motel and Campground, a reviewer simply stated, "Wifi was good."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Green Lakes State Park Campground offers a large beach area ideal for children. "Swimming is available at the large beach. You can rent a kayak and enjoy the beautiful lake. There are miles of trails to explore," says one camper. Another notes, "Beach for swimming with concession stand with quite a full menu. Beach also has a great playground for kids that is perfect for play and swim."
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds often schedule special events for families. At Verona Beach State Park, a visitor mentioned, "Verona Beach State Park is nice and close to home. Also close to Utica and Rome. The kids love to hang out at the splash pad and the state recently revamped some of the playgrounds."
Playground facilities: Most cabin-adjacent campgrounds provide play areas. A visitor to West Canada Creek Campground shared, "There is a playground with slides and swings as well as a swimming pool. There is a beach volleyball court, half court basketball and horseshoe pits."
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: At Kayuta Lake Campground, "The roadways can get a little tight between the trees, and can make for some interesting backing in. Also, the roadways are mostly one-way, which can make getting creative with your trailer landing position tough."
Hookup options: Campgrounds offer various connection types for RVs. At Cooperstown KOA, "Site types include full hookup, water and electric, and no hookup with prices varying depending upon site. You can choose between 30/20 or 50 amp electric service."
Leveling requirements: Most sites in the region require minimal leveling. A visitor to Cooperstown KOA noted, "The park is nicely terraced and all the sites are level. Patios were a grassy/dirt area with a picnic table and fire pit."
