Camping cabins near Stamford, New York provide access to the northern Catskill Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 3,500 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and dropping to 50-60°F at night. Winter cabin camping requires preparation for temperatures that commonly fall below freezing from December through March, with snowfall accumulations typically reaching 40-60 inches annually.
What to do
Hiking trails: Gilbert Lake State Park Campground features miles of well-maintained hiking paths including a loop trail around the lake. According to a camper, "I've been camping at Gilbert lake for 35 or so years... There's miles of hiking trails including one around the lake." Most trails are moderate difficulty and suitable for day hikes.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple bodies of water provide fishing access throughout the season. At Max V. Shaul State Park Campground, a visitor notes, "there's no pond/lake here but there's several waterfalls nearby and vromans nose." Bring fishing gear between April and October for best results.
Beach swimming: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas with lifeguards during summer months. A visitor to Gilbert Lake State Park Campground shared, "There's a disc golf course, many pavilions, a decent beach with concessions, a walking trail all the way are the lake and it's accessible from multiple points."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds provide well-separated camping areas with room for multiple tents or activities. At Country Roads Campground, campers appreciate that "Mainly an RV ground, but they have about 10-15 great tent sites back beyond the RV area. There are water spigots near all the tent sites and they are nice and spread out."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness receives consistent positive mentions. One visitor to Crazy Acres Campground at Beaver Spring Lake commented, "Very clean bathrooms and showers. My site had 30 amp electric (also 2 extension cord outlets in the box) and water."
Family activities: Campgrounds typically offer recreation options for children and adults. A camper at Max V. Shaul State Park Campground mentioned, "They have new bathrooms/showers and family bathrooms. There's a playground, a pavilion, they do fireside jams."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin rentals require advance booking, especially during peak season. At Glimmerglass State Park Campground, a visitor noted, "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."
Cabin amenities: Cabin features vary significantly between parks. A visitor to Little Lake Campground reported, "Electric, water, and septic hookups were all modern and in great shape." Confirm what specific amenities each cabin includes before booking.
Cell service limitations: Mobile phone coverage varies throughout the region. One camper at Gilbert Lake State Park Campground warned, "The only downsides are the roads are rough and there's little to no cell signal. That could be a plus for some though."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas for children. At Little Lake Campground, campers appreciate that "They have lots to do, the owners are very friendly and accommodating, the campground is one of the quietest we've ever stayed at, both at night and in the morning."
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. A cabin visitor reported, "Lots of wildlife, coyotes howling in the distance at night and plenty of deer. Perfect time of year to go, barely any mosquitoes and it was warm during the day but cool at night."
Winter activities: Some cabins remain available during colder months. Regarding winter options at My Friends Place, a visitor shared, "My Friend's Place is a great spot to enjoy a peaceful glamping experience."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV sites vary in size and accessibility between campgrounds. A Crazy Acres Campground visitor noted, "Excellent campground. The tone of the place is set when you drive in (although we drove past it). Everyone, staff and campers are friendly respectful even the kids!"
Hookup availability: Electric, water and sewer connections vary between locations. At Max V. Shaul State Park Campground, a camper reported, "The Max V. Shaul State Park is small and quiet - only 30 sites here, which are large, flat and sited well apart from each other. The park is currently undergoing construction on 2 new bathhouses. No hookups, just a picnic table, firepit."
Seasonal considerations: Most RV campgrounds operate from mid-May through early October. A visitor noted, "We are full timers and took our daughter, her boyfriend and our granddaughter for a weekend camping. We had fun, plenty of activities, a big lake to fish in and a pool to relax by."
