Camping cabins near Otter Lake, New York provide direct access to the southwestern Adirondack region, situated at approximately 1,700 feet elevation where dense forests meet numerous waterways. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, with summer highs typically reaching the 70s. The region's year-round accessibility makes it a destination for both warm-weather water activities and winter sports including snowmobiling.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling opportunities: At Old Forge Camping Resort, the small lake within the campground offers convenient paddling access. "The visitors/welcome center has everything you need, including firewood, sweatshirts and homemade breakfast sandwiches. There is endless RV camping, tent camping, cabins and cottages available... A volleyball court, playground and even a lake to fish or rent paddle boards," notes a visitor.
Gemstone hunting adventures: The Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA provides a unique activity for cabin campers. "Across the road from a do it yourself quartz mine. Plenty of things to do including tubing the west Canada river. Easy in easy out for the tubing," reports one reviewer. The campground is designed to complement mining activities with accommodations ranging from basic tent sites to fully-equipped cabins.
Winter recreation: Cabin rentals remain available during colder months at several properties, supporting winter activities. "Close to skiing. Snowmobiling is the real reason to come here. Dry cabins or cottages with bath and shower are available. Snowmobile trails are accessible from the campground and seasonal rentals are available," writes a winter visitor to Old Forge Camping Resort.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Golden Beach Campground offers lakeside cabin options with direct water access. "This is our favorite place to camp by far. We've been here 2 times this summer. The second time we were on site 86, on the water. It was amazing. We rented a canoe from Adirondack river rentals and could launch directly from our site," explains a satisfied camper.
River access for tubing: The area's rivers provide recreation beyond just fishing. At West Canada Creek Campground, "The West Canada Creek wraps around the entire property and provides such a tranquil backdrop. The sites are surrounded by lush oaks and pines. Makes it feel as though you are truly immersed in nature. Most of the sites are fairly level, either gravel or grass." The campground also offers a tubing shuttle service.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Natural encounters add to the cabin camping experience. "Lots of black bears in area heed the warnings regarding keeping cars and camper locked keep food and cooler secure," advises one Old Forge visitor. Another mentions, "The ability to see bears through the camp ground and a great lake for kayaking there is something for everyone."
What you should know
Reservation timing requirements: Most cabin accommodations require significant advance planning. "Make sure you book far enough in advance. We typically book 1 year prior for the cottages," shares a visitor about Old Forge Camping Resort. This is especially true for holiday weekends and special event weekends like Halloween.
Variable site quality: Not all cabins and sites are created equal. At Golden Beach Campground, "They have some very nice campsites; unfortunately, they have some sites that have no level area (as in, not even close - it's all slope) or shade, so choose wisely." Studying site maps or calling ahead can help secure better accommodations.
Power limitations: Some properties have infrastructure constraints. One visitor to HTR Adirondacks notes, "We used a surge protector when plugging in to electric. It wasn't long before our power kept kicking off. We contacted the office and a staff member came and advised us that they do not have enough power for all of the campsites they have."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Cranberry Lake Campground provides family-friendly swimming options. "Beach front area is great for families! Sites are fairly secluded!" notes one visitor. Another adds, "Campground/ lake views are breathtaking!" making it a good choice for families seeking water recreation.
Seasonal programming: Many campgrounds offer special activities during peak periods. "Their themed weekends and accompanying activities throughout the season are wonderful. We had the pleasure of staying for Labor Day weekend in which they had a kids carnival set up among many other things," describes a West Canada Creek camper.
Budget for additional costs: Factor in activity fees beyond basic accommodation costs. "The mines are so much fun... 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. Tubing was the big hit with the kids," shares a Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger units: For RVs requiring more space, choose locations carefully. A DevilDoc Campsites visitor recommends, "If you are looking for a quiet and private out of the way site... this is it. Primitive dispersed camping is what you get, and EXACTLY what we wanted. We had the entire campground and the small Artesian fed pond to ourselves until our last night when other campers arrived."
Utility management: The region's varied terrain sometimes impacts hookup reliability. "Not all sites have full hookups, some are just power, some are only grey water, and some are full. There are a lot of full timers here, so the grounds can look fuller than they really are as most often the majority of the full time sites are not occupied," explains a visitor about available services.
Seasonal access considerations: Winter RV camping with cabin options exists but requires planning. During winter months, services may be limited with some campgrounds closing entirely from October through May. Those remaining open often operate with reduced capacity and amenities tailored specifically to winter activities.
