Cabin camping near Troy, New York offers shelter-based options within 50 miles of the city across upstate New York, western Massachusetts, and southern Vermont. The area's mixed forests and rolling hills sit at elevations between 400-1,400 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping experiences. Winter cabin rentals remain available at select locations when most tent sites close due to the region's significant snowfall averaging 60 inches annually.
What to do
Hiking the reservoir trail: Woodford State Park Campground offers a scenic water-based hiking experience. "There's a small reservoir with a little beach that you can swim or kayak/canoe in. There's a bunch of fish and other little creatures so it's fun to explore," noted a camper. The park maintains a walking trail circling the entire reservoir.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites provides access to Pontoosuc Lake within walking distance. "Pontoosuc Lake is a short walk away; there are boat rentals available and I saw a number of people fishing from Pontoosuc Park just above the dam," reports one visitor. The proximity to fishing spots makes this location practical for anglers staying in cabins.
Exploring state forests: Cabin sites at Clarksburg State Park Campground connect directly to forest trails. "There are plenty of trails you can hop on right outside your tent site and very little light pollution for optimal star gazing," mentions a reviewer. Bear boxes are provided at each site so campers don't need to keep food in vehicles.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Moreau Lake State Park Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Nicely treed sites and cabins with a pretty lake. Hiking, biking, swimming, boat/canoe/paddleboard rentals," notes one camper. The log cabins here are positioned among trees with varying levels of privacy.
Quiet atmosphere: Privacy Campground lives up to its name according to visitors. "The place lives up to its name. We're not fond of RV parking lots and the sites were well spaced which gets it many extra points," shares a recent guest. While the infrastructure is described as dated, bathrooms are kept "very clean" according to reviews.
Water activities: Woodford State Park Campground offers both a designated day-use swimming area and a separate waterfront section for campers with dogs. "Our dog loved getting a little swim! (No dogs allowed at the day use area). The reservoir is beautiful- plenty of space to spread out for paddling and swimming," comments a visitor who appreciated the pet-friendly water access.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin locations fill quickly between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Advance booking is essential, with many sites allowing reservations up to 9 months ahead. Cabins typically have stricter minimum-stay requirements than tent sites.
Bathroom arrangements: Most cabin options lack private bathrooms. Dingman's Family Campground provides clean shared facilities. "Facilities were exceptionally clean and the camp store was stunning! Each site has a fire pit and a picnic table," reports a camper. Portable toilets are also distributed throughout the grounds.
Seasonal considerations: In northern Berkshire County locations, cabin camping extends later into fall. "We were pleasantly surprised with our weekend getaway to Clarksburg State Park. Nestled in the Berkshires and basically walking distance to Vermont," notes a September visitor who found the park comfortable despite the season change.
Tips for camping with families
Water park options: Adventure Bound Camping Resort at Deer Run includes water attractions ideal for children. "Family oriented. The kids loved love water attractions. Our site was large and shaded," reports a satisfied family. The campground combines cabin accommodations with recreational facilities specifically designed for younger campers.
Kid-friendly environment: Several parks organize structured activities for children. "Rangers provided programming for kids and families on the weekends. Great for kayaking or Stand up paddling," notes a Clarksburg State Park visitor. Families should check activity schedules when booking.
Noise considerations: Campgrounds vary widely in noise levels and enforcement of quiet hours. "If you're looking for a quiet spot maybe don't look here. If you have kids and don't mind them making friends and roaming the campground then this is great!" advises a Woodford visitor, noting its popularity with families creates a social but sometimes louder environment.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Pack leveling blocks even for cabin stays as many sites have uneven terrain. "Our site was large and shaded. The draw back is where you need to park the camper is about 7 inches out of level. If we stay in the same site again we would come better prepared," advises a Deer Run camper.
Access limitations: Privacy Campground presents challenges for larger vehicles. "With that hill there's no place for larger RVs here unless they were to decide to use the field at the bottom," warns a visitor. Cabins can provide alternative accommodations when RV sites won't accommodate larger rigs.
Seasonal RV options: Frosty Acres Campground offers long-term options including winter cabin access. "Seasonal rates are excellent. We stayed from April until October then decided to stay over winter. They have a small winter section. You'll have the entire mountain side all to yourself!" reports a year-round resident, noting winter activities like snowshoeing are accessible directly from the cabins.