Camping options near St. Johnsville extend throughout Fulton County and the southern Adirondack region. The area sits at approximately 700 feet elevation in the Mohawk Valley, with surrounding hills rising to 1,200-1,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity than more elevated Adirondack locations. Several campgrounds operate on a seasonal basis from May through October, with limited winter availability.
What to do
Tubing and water recreation: At Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA, creek access provides natural water activities. "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. Lazy river flow with some faster spots, truly a perfect way to spend the days in the sun," notes Julia P.
Diamond mining excursions: Located a short drive from St. Johnsville, mining for Herkimer diamonds offers a unique outdoor activity. "A fine campground with its own Herkimer Diamond Mine walking distance (or you can drive up your vehicle) to the mining area. Staff is extremely friendly and informative about the mining (extra charge)," according to Monica F.
Hiking nearby trails: The southern Adirondack foothills provide accessible hiking options. "The PeckHill state forest is close by for mountain biking. You can park at the trailhead on CR 101, or at Stump City brewing, to ride the trails. Lots of hiking and great fishing are found in the area," reports Tony F. from DevilDoc Campsites.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail offers direct river access. "The parking area is right on the water. It offers sounds of the highway and freight trains going by, my wife and I love it. There are grills in the grassy area for tent camping, also a potable water tap," explains The L.
Spacious campsites: Royal Mountain Campsites features generously sized camping areas. "Site was HUGE! Website stated sites were 30Amp so very happy to have found 50Amp upon arrival! We paid for wood and the owner drove it to our site and gave us half a tree for $10!!" shares Brittany V.
Secluded pond camping: Several campers mention the quiet pond settings available at campsites in the region. "We had the entire place to ourselves as our little Hiker Trailer was able to make it up to the clearing where there's a little pond. We had tons of privacy as it is well clear of the host's home and neighbors," notes Toshi at DevilDoc Campsites.
What you should know
Train noise levels: St. Johnsville Marina campsite experiences regular train traffic. "One night stay. Great sight. Friendly helpful staff. Only drawback is steady stream of trains going by around the clock. I didn't mind by my wife didn't sleep well," advises Ray P.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate May through October. "Very quiet small campground - friendly staff - large spots/mainly bigger setups. Only downside is there is not a hiking/walking path down to the lake from the campground," notes Heather E. about Glimmerglass State Park Campground.
Off-grid accommodations: Some camping options have limited facilities. "Continue driving past the original coordinates until you reach the dirt parking lot on the right. You'll see signs that say 'No Vehicles Past This Point' — those apply only to the grassy picnic area. The parking lot is large, rocky, and uneven," explains Mona M. about primitive camping at Lock 15.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: "The beach area here is huge! Great for families, the parking lots is huge, there's easy hiking on the grounds, and it's close to cooperstown- visit the baseball hall of fame!" recommends Brian H.
Playground availability: Spruce Creek Campground offers child-friendly amenities. "We have 2 young boys, there is a small playground available, the creek which both boys swam/waded in and our older son went fishing," shares Becky.
Evening activities: Family-oriented campgrounds often provide group activities. "Navigating the campground was easy and they had social fires by their pond in the evenings. Plenty to see nearby or just stay in," reports Brittany V. about Royal Mountain Campsites.
Tips from RVers
Site assistance: Campground hosts often provide setup help for RVers. "Owner is very knowledgeable and helpful. Very friendly too! Took us to the site, helped back us in and helped us hook everything up!" notes Wyndie G. at Spruce Creek Campground.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "Not good for larger rigs, largest site was too short for mine. Pot holes in the campground road are so bad that it caused damage to my trailer," cautions David R.
Power requirements: Check electrical hookup specifications before booking. "Like all KOAs this one is very well manicured, there are a lot of activities for kids and a river runs through it so you can tube from one side of the campground to another," reports Seth K.
