Camping options near Waterville, New York range from primitive forest sites to full-service RV parks within a 20-mile radius. The region sits at elevations between 1,200-1,800 feet with a humid continental climate that brings warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Local campgrounds typically experience nighttime temperatures that drop 15-20 degrees below daytime highs even in summer months, making warm clothing essential regardless of season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The 54-acre reservoir at Lebanon Reservoir Campground offers excellent fishing from shore or boat. "The staff is great, they have a nice little store for the basic supplies and treats, as well as fire wood and boat rentals," notes camper Michael O.
Diamond mining excursions: Located about 30 miles northeast of Waterville, Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA offers a unique experience digging for double-terminated quartz crystals. "We spent three nights here. The staff is fabulous. The mines are so much fun. The whole park is well maintained," writes Kelly F.
Swimming in glacial lakes: Green Lakes State Park Campground features unique glacial lakes with distinctive blue-green water. "The water is Crystal clear and very blue, you will think you are in the Caribbean Islands. We visit this park very frequently to rent a boat or to hike the trails," states Kenneth S.
What campers like
Tubing on creeks: The West Canada Creek at Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA provides refreshing summer recreation. "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," explains Julia P.
Secluded forest sites: Stoney Pond State Forest Camping Area offers primitive camping with considerable privacy. "There are 15 drive-in campsites widely spaced and set into the woods, and two developed walk-in sites on the west shore," describes Janet R., noting the sites are "great for tenting."
Waterfront camping: At Delta Lake State Park Campground, lakeside sites are particularly popular. "We had a waterfront hookup! So pretty especially in the morning with the sunrise... There's a few steps down to a gravel beach and an expansive view of the delta lake," writes Tris W.
What you should know
Year-round accessibility: Seasonal restrictions vary significantly between campgrounds in the Waterville area. While most state parks close by mid-October, Charles E. Baker State Forest remains open for primitive camping throughout winter. "Beautiful forest with miles of trails. There are official camp spots with water access which are also free to use," notes Matt A.
Reservation requirements: Most developed campgrounds require advance booking, particularly in summer. The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone has limited availability on weekends. "Convenient to the highway with 24 hour shuttles to the casino 5 minutes away, yet quiet and beautifully maintained," reports April L.
Site variations: Campsite terrain and amenities differ substantially even within the same campground. At Glimmerglass State Park, "Sites are very easy to get into and well maintained. Water available and electric," according to Patti M., while at Green Lakes, sites range from sunny to heavily wooded.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Lake Chalet Motel and Campground offers swimming and fishing in a small pond setting. "Nice place with swimming, fishing, and other things to do. Nice people," Scott A. mentions, though he cautions that "sites by the road have noise from the road which is busier than you might think."
Playground access: For families, Green Lakes State Park provides excellent facilities. "Beach also has a great playground for kids that is perfect for play and swim. Dogs are welcome," explains Kelly J., making it suitable for both children and pets.
Safety considerations: Delta Lake State Park features a guarded swimming area with gradually sloped entry. "The beautiful beach is well attended with life guards on duty keeping you safe but still allowing much fun on the very clean white sand," Brian O. shares.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone offers premium full-hookup sites for larger rigs. "Spacious FHU sites. Pull thru and back ins," notes Boomer B., while Carl G. adds, "All full hook up sites from full sun to full shade. Been coming here for 25+ years."
Site access: Many campgrounds have specific loops or sections better suited for RVs. At Delta Lake, Loop A is more open while other areas provide more shade and privacy. "We scheduled a pull through for 1 night last minute due to an unexpected change in plans... The sites were level and great size with nice spacing in between," explains Jen O. about Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA.
Winter preparation: Most RV campgrounds in the area close by late October, but those remaining open require preparation for freezing temperatures. Turning Stone provides the longest season, open from May through October with full hookups that can handle early season cold snaps.
