Glamping options near Summit, New York range from rustic to refined, with several properties offering unique accommodations in the Catskill Mountains region. The area sits at elevations between 1,200-2,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions with crisp autumn nights often dropping below 45°F. Most glamping sites in this area operate on private land with limited capacity, requiring advance reservations during peak summer months.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Max V. Shaul State Park Campground serves as an excellent base for visiting nearby cascades. "There's no pond/lake here but there's several waterfalls nearby and vromans nose," notes Brian H., highlighting natural attractions within short driving distance.
Lake activities: Glimmerglass State Park Campground offers water recreation on a pristine lake. "The lake is pristine and wonderful to swim in. Nice beach. Also a place for showers and a bathroom and small place for food and extras things you might need for camping," explains Patti M. The park features designated swimming areas with seasonal lifeguards.
Evening entertainment: Several campgrounds host organized nighttime activities. At Country Roads Campground, "They have special events in a pavilion near the RVs including bingo," according to William R., providing structured entertainment options during extended stays.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many glamping properties feature well-separated accommodations. At Nickerson Park Campground, "Groups of sites sit on level terraces stepped down toward the river. The center area of each grouping of sites had a common use area with tether ball, playgrounds, privies, or additional parking," reports Sarah S.
Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses are common at established glamping sites. "The bathrooms and showers are clean and well-kept" at multiple locations, with Max V. Shaul State Park Campground receiving specific praise: "They have new bathrooms/showers and family bathrooms," according to Margaret L.
Natural settings: The region's woodland environment enhances the glamping experience. "The mature trees make for beautiful scenery in the fall," notes a visitor to Cooperstown KOA, while another camper mentions "We had a view of the rolling hills. Beautiful!" when describing their tent site.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most glamping sites close after mid-October. "May 15 to Columbus Day" is the typical operating season for Country Roads Campground, similar to other properties in the region.
Limited availability: Some exclusive glamping properties maintain very small capacity. Grandpa's Back 40 Glamping has just "2 sites" total according to property information, making advance reservations essential during summer months.
Service variations: Water quality and pressure can vary between properties. One camper noted at Nickerson Park that "One annoyance is the water pressure seemed to drop on occasion," while others recommend bringing drinking water for certain locations.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Several glamping sites offer swimming pools as alternatives to natural water features. "They have a pool and water slides for the kids," reports Jennifer P. about Nickerson Park Campground, providing supervised water recreation options.
Activity schedules: Check for organized events when booking. "They do fireside jams" at Max V. Shaul State Park Campground according to Margaret L., while Cooperstown KOA advertises "a baseball theme" with family-friendly programming throughout the summer.
Playground access: Many glamping sites include play structures. "There is a children's playground and pavilion" at one location, while another camper notes "The pool, along with the dog park, bounce house and swing set were well taken care of" at Cooperstown KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site access: Some glamping areas have limitations for larger vehicles. "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," advises Jim G.
Utility considerations: Electric service varies between properties. At Harmony Hill Lodging and Retreat, electric hookups are available at glamping yurts, though they don't offer the higher-powered 50-amp service some larger RVs require.
Terrain awareness: Site leveling can be challenging at some locations. "The park is nicely terraced and all the sites are level," notes a reviewer about Cooperstown KOA, while others recommend checking site specifications when booking glamping accommodations that welcome RVs.
