Best Camping in and near Glimmerglass State Park

75% (2 reviews)

Named after a literary legend, this is an idyllic setting for outdoor explorers.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Glimmerglass State Park

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Tilden Hill Farm

16 sites · RVs, Tents155 acres · Vernon, NY

Relax at Tilden Hill Farm its a 155 acre farm raising Black Angus Cattle it has been in the Brewer family for seven generations. Founded in 1798 by Josiah Brewer, the farm has served as a grist mill, chicken farm, cheese factory. We offer several types of site selection for your comfort. Choose from our private tent camping to relaxing RV sites. Our tent sites are quiet and scenic, just a quick walk down to the pond. Some of our sites you can park next to, but a few you will have to walk ~100 yards with your belongings. Tent sites have a porta-john and homemade outdoor shower for your enjoyment! Our RV sites have full hookups: water, electric and also a dump station.Once settled in, take a meandering walk through our 4 miles of walking trails or find your way down to our pond. Water activities are plentiful: fishing for bass, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, we accommodate it all!We look forward to seeing you at Tilden Hill Farm where you can "Experience a Family Tradition"

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Sacred Waterfall & Quiet Camping

46 sites · Lodging25 acres · NY

NOTE: THIS IS A QUIET CAMPING AREA for reconnecting with nature. Not suitable for parties or loud groups. Kahonrakén:ra, The White Spiral Waterfall, is a world unto itself. For generations, the majestic waterfall has been revered for its spectacular beauty and power. It is considered a sacred site that has been central to local land rematriation work with the Kanienkeha:ka, also known as the Mohawks, the original inhabitants of Ioskóhare, the Schoharie Valley. Coursing between two outcroppings in a deep ravine, Kahonrakén:ra Waterfall crashes down over mossy rock shelves into a hidden pool, which then empties again into the river, running into emerald swimming holes and through dramatic clay beds. The effect is transporting. Truly, it is one of those extraordinarily beautiful spots on earth that makes you feel like you are in another world. There are two tiny cabins on the property. They are both accessed by separate footpaths through the forest, below an old red barn, surrounded by ash and walnut trees, singing birds, deer, wildflowers, and wild medicines. One cabin is in the forest, just beyond a grass circle clearing. The other is down the hill through a wildflower grove. Both sites have extra space to set up a tent if needed. The Forest Cabin is insulated with hemp, has electric lights and outlets, is bigger inside with a work desk, has Anderson crank out windows, has a bigger deck, and has two twin mattresses under the bed if you need them. The Wildflower Cabin is a bit deeper in the forest, a little smaller, uninsulated with two walls of old-school wood-pane windows that open out to the forest completely, one twin mattress under the bed and a powerstrip for light electric use. Both sites have private fire pits, solar shower stalls, fans for cooling and an oil filled electric heater for chilly nights. We do not allow partying. There is a profound healing process happening at the waterfall. At the request of the original caretakers, we ask that you to respect the sacredness of this land. Thank you! It's about a 10 minute hike down the gorge to the waterfall from the campsites. Each campsite has a private path down to the waterfall, where you can spend the day swimming, exploring the clay beds and looking for fossils in the 280 million year old gorge. In the evening, make a campfire at your fire pit and fall asleep under the stars listening to the waterfall and the river below. Be aware that the hike is steep and appropriate footwear is required. All hiking is at your own risk. Although your path to the waterfall is private and the waterfall is on private property, there may be other guests or locals that access the waterfall further down the road. There is no glass or alcohol allowed at the falls. Please be aware that you may hear your camping neighbors in the woods. For this reason, we ask that you don’t play amplified music and to keep noise down after 10pm so that your camping and local neighbors can chillax and enjoy the evening sounds of frogs, crickets, owls, and night songs of the countryside that makes Schoharie so special. In the big red barn at the entrance to the campsites there is a community room with a charging station, cold water sink, mini fridge, coffee maker, grills, and a port-a-potty for your use. There are also 5 gallon solar shower bags that you can use at your campsite. You are responsible for filling them and putting them in the sun to heat the water. :) This is a leave no trace campsite. Please take all your trash with you when you leave. And please bring your own biodegradable soap for dishes and toilet paper for the port-a-potty! Firewood is available onsite for $1 per log. Instructions for payment are in the community room next to the red silo at the barn. The wood is stacked at next to the red shed just uphill from the barn. You can also buy your own fire wood en route. We recommend that you buy kindling at the gas station on your way in. The Schoharie Valley is said to be the most fertile valley east of the Mississippi. It is still wild, unspoiled country and there are many local farms with fresh produce and organic meat within 5 miles of the house. There are several farm stands and a general store a few miles away, Scrumpy Ewe Cidery, Panther Creek Arts, and the Sap Bush Country Store and Café just up the hill in West Fulton. Mustang Valley, a wild mustang sanctuary and rescue center, is just down the road. Nearby hikes include Looking Glass Pond and Vroman's Nose, among many others.

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Steady Slope Fields and Forest

4 sites · Lodging, Tents58 acres · Delhi, NY

This land was once all pasture for grazing animals. We moved to Delaware County in November 2018 to start our family and pursue dreams of working on the land. The initial idea was to find a place we could live, garden, and raise a few animals while hosting guests and sharing the land with visitors. When we found this place on Williams Road, we loved the mix of rural and proximity to a thriving country town. We now have two kids and enjoy living in Delhi so much we hardly leave the town limits! There are wonderful restaurants, a great year-round farmers market, grocery stores, and many other services and amenities you can find listed towards the end of this guide. Our Catskill Mountain home is situated on a historic early 19th century farm site. Parts of the house might be more than 190 years old! With several additions and upgrades we think the house has lots of charm and enjoy the many modern touches. The property is overgrown pastures and a few steeper slopes with medium growth trees. After the industrial period saw this region nearly deforested, the land was granted to settlers who cleared fields and planted grass. Our immediate vicinity was knows for it’s cattle (Bovina), mostly for diary, and sheep. The agriculture in Delaware County has been on a decline since the advent of rail shipping opened New York City markets to farms in less challenging geographies. Construction of the NYC fresh water system (DEP Watershed) may have contributed to this decline, but about 60-70 years ago the majority of pastures, especially less productive parcels were abandoned to the “weed trees”. These first succession trees grew quickly in the sunny meadows and covered the hills; trees such as Ash, Hawthorn, and Norway Spruce. Fences and barns were left to return to the earth. On our property the stone walls that boarder the fields are the most stark reminder of the intensive agriculture practiced here.

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Locust Grove Waterfall

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Oak Hill, NY

Fall asleep to the sounds of the waterfall on the Catskill creek! Escape the chaos - find peace and solace among the Catskill mountains. Located directly on the Catskill creek in the hamlet of Oak Hill, you'll be sleeping to the sounds of the waterfall just steps from the site. At the foot of the waterfall is your own personal swimming hole. Take advantage of the multiple hammock relaxation stations throughout the property and swimming in the creek. If you're up for a walk, the infamous Yellow Deli is just a mile down the road. We're just a few minutes away from Windham Mountain and various trails if you're the hiking type. Check out our "Must See" book in the tent for suggestions on places to enjoy during your stay. This campsite features a queen size bed for two. Site guidelines Bring loads of extra blankets and warm clothing. Boots are a must. Although the driveway is kept clear, car should ideally be AWD or 4WD depending on weather conditions. Consult your campkeeper. Let your campkeeper know when you are arriving so we can light up entry for you. Cleanup all common spaces when you leave. But, make yourself at home. Video Footage of the site - Instagram - @locustgroveny ***We have added a second full size glamping tent, the same size as the main tent with a queen size bed. This is only available to you when you book this site with a capacity of more than 2 people, it will never be rented to anyone else when you are there.

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Kimberly H.’s Land

3 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Cobleskill, NY

Country farm and camping grounds.

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Glamping Yurt in Woods of Franklin

1 site · Lodging8 acres · Walton, NY

Glamping Yurt in the woods of the Western Catskills. This gorgeous 24' Yurt includes electricity, excellent Wifi, two comfortable Queen beds (one mattress on a bed frame and one floor mattress), a refrigerator, and a pristine compost toilet. There is no running water but we provide a Berkey full of filtered water and one gallon of water for washing up in the bathroom. Sit on our gorgeous rocking chairs on the deck and grill, and stargaze from bed through the dome in the ceiling. Please also note that there are extra charges for more than 2 guests ($15/ person/ night), pets ($25/ stay), propane for heat (if needed- $25/ tank) propane for gas grill ($10) and wood bundle for outdoor fire ($15). You can add these to your booking under 'Extras' Please read through all details below to help prepare you for your stay : ) Wifi We have excellent high-speed fiberoptic Wifi. Network: Master Password: ofpuppets Note: If you are standing directly in front of the Wifi disc on the deck you may temporarily block the signal. Sound In the Yurt you should expect to hear all the sounds of nature that you hear when sleeping in a tent. While the Yurt is insulated and stays warm, sound-wise it is like a tent rather than like a house, so expect to hear the sounds of the woods and the weather during your stay. Windows The screen windows close two different ways: to keep the Yurt insulated there is a velcroed thick plastic cover that is clear. To keep out light/ for added privacy you can roll down a solid canvas flap and zip them shut. Please note that both of these things need to happen from outside the Yurt, so you may want to set them how you want them before you turn in for the night. Please reset windows to how you found them when you leave. Bathroom Our compost toilet is lined with a compostable trash bag. Please scoop sawdust from the Periwinkle Milk Crate into the toilet after each use of the toilet. You should scoop enough sawdust to completely and generously cover everything in the toilet. When you end your trip and leave the Yurt, and/or when the toilet is 2/3 full, please tie shut the compostable bag and dump the bag into our compost. Every time you use the outdoor compost, please cover what you have disposed of with either leaves or the hay provided in the center bin. (If you are only staying for 1-2 nights and would prefer not to do this, that is totally fine! Just let us know you didn’t get a chance to bring it out.) There is a pitcher with water and wash bin for brushing teeth/ washing hands in the bathroom. You can empty the wash bin outside when finished using it. We also provide all-purpose soap. Heat Note: March 2024 bookings we are including the first two propane tanks free! The Yurt is well insulated and runs on a propane heater. Please note that propane is not included in your stay and each tank is $25; you can find them under add-ons. Each propane tank will comfortably heat the yurt a night as cold as 30-degree night up to 24hrs. Decide how many tanks you'd like depending how long you are staying or how cold you expect it to be. The Yurt will comfortable heat freezing nights as well, it just will use propane more quickly. Water We provide a full Berkey full of filtered, clean water from our well with each visit. We also provide a pitcher of water in the bathroom for brushing teeth and washing hands and face. If you are staying longer than two nights, or if you expect for any reason to use more water than provided, we ask that you bring the additional water with you, keeping in mind it is a short (4-minute) hike from parking to the Yurt. In some cases with enough notice we may be able to provide additional water for your stay for an additional charge. Kitchenette We provide a Berkey full of filtered water, an electric kettle, a mini fridge and freezer, a microwave for use during your stay. We provide a gas Cuisinart Grill for use on the deck. If you plan to use the grill, please do a $10 mini-propane add-on so we can make sure there is fresh propane provided. We also provide cups, wine glasses, a French Press for coffee making, and compostable plates and bowls. Please do not put the plastic plates and mugs in the microwave. Please throw any compostable food into the compost bin or compost bag provided in the kitchenette and empty it into our large outdoor compost bin at the end of each day. Every time you use the outdoor compost, please cover what you have disposed of with either leaves or the hay provided in the center bin. Please never leave any food in the Yurt for more than one day that isn’t sealed in an airtight container. Please do not put meat or dairy products in the compost. If you bring meat or dairy products into the Yurt, we ask that you take any meat or diary trash out with you and dispose of it elsewhere. We have provided trash bags for this purpose. Please keep any meat and dairy products and trash in airtight sealed containers in the Yurt until you are able to dispose of them. Trash —-Please dispose of regular trash and recycling in our regular trash cans across from where you park. Walton automatically sorts recycling from trash so both can go in the same bins (we separate our recycling in a different bag just so the trash doesn’t contaminate it, but put it in the same bin as the trash.) —-Compost (fruit + veggie scraps, tea + coffee grounds, toilet bag) gets taken to outdoor compost bin on path to parking and covered with hay or leaves —-Meat + dairy stays sealed in an airtight container when in the Yurt and taken with you when you leave Rules 1) Please remove shoes as soon as you enter the Yurt 2) Please scoop sawdust anytime you use the toilet, and please take the toilet sawdust out to the compost bin once it is 2/3 of the way full or when you leave, whichever comes first. (If you are only staying 1-2 nights and prefer not to do this, that is fine, just please let us know you didn’t get a chance to bring out the toilet compost and our cleaner will take care of it.) 3) Please turn off all electricity, including all lights and heaters every time you leave the Yurt, especially when you end your trip. 4) Please never leave any food in the Yurt for more than one day that isn’t sealed in an airtight container. Please put any compostable food in the kitchen compost and take that compost out to the outdoor compost every couple days, covering the compost with leaves or hay once it is disposed of. Please take meat or diary trash with you when you leave. 5) Please do not put the plastic plates and mugs in the microwave. 6) Please wipe down the grill when finished use, make sure to turn off the gas when done, and please do not bring the grill inside the Yurt.

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Catskills Forest Pondside Hideaway

2 sites · Tents5 acres · Windham, NY

Learn more about this land: NOTE: Some Fall 2024 dates are blocked for maintenance, but contact me to request specific dates. :) (Use the "Have a question? Send Timothy a message!" link at the bottom of this section.) Tucked into a meadow in a forest clearing deep in the Catskills, this special land has a variety of mature trees, open meadows with ferns and dogwood stands, remnants of an old apple orchard, a large swimming pond, trails across old rock walls and mountain streams through gently sloping topography, and abundant birds, frogs, newts, and other wildlife. The off-grid site is close enough to the house and parking area to have convenience, but far enough—and hidden out of view—so it offers real privacy. (About a 4-minute walk from your private toilet/supply/storage shed by driveway.) Tent area has cleared pads for two small tents. Location is far enough from things that you can walk a minute into the woods and feel lost to civilization, yet only two miles of paved road from downtown Windham and all that the cozy resort town has to offer. Makes a great basecamp for exploring the rest of the Northern Catskills, or a hideaway to stay and get lost in. Hike miles of trails and old logging roads in the Elm Ridge Wild Forest, starting literally steps from your campsite. Swim in the large spring-fed pond, or just watch the colorful koi swim. Sit around the fire and reflect on the day’s adventures. Or just take in the wide-open views of distant mountains and starry skies. Note: the only "Kitchen available" (Hipcamp's wording) is a grill over firepit. Also, toilet is a bucket-style dry composting toilet with urine diversion inside a protected shed. Camp site is a short hike along private trails from parking/shed area. Depending on weather/season, it's sometimes muddy.

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Coyote Creek

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Gilboa, NY

Easy entry off a quiet well maintained country road in the town of Conesville, NY. Sitting on 5 acres you will notice the beautiful views of the Catskill Mountains. Feel free to hike the entire property. Hike down the ravine approximately 80ft to the mountain fed creek. You will find massive boulders, and various artifacts as this property was once a mining operation dating back to the early 1920s. Be mindful of partially fallen trees (widow makers) on the hillside along the south end. It’s a steep hike down so get your hiking poles and good boots. The north end is an easier hike. If you find any cool artifacts they are yours to keep or just leave them and we will add them to the display for the new cabin. Check out the iconic ‘57 Chevy Bel Air halfway down the ravine. With your stay we are offering 20% off your cabin stay when it becomes available. 20 minutes to Windham, Minekill State Park and Bates State Forest(down the road.) The Milk Run is approximately 15 min away back toward the interstate. They have a dump station, gas station and they have great sandwiches for the ride home. So many great things to see, just ask. Check us out on Instagram @coyote_creek1

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Triple Creek

2 sites · Tents250000 acres · West Kill, NY

A true wilderness experience. Base camp is an old Catskill farmhouse built late 19th century but first deeded 1820. Sits at the base of Evergreen Mountain bordered on three sides by tumbling water: West Kill Creek, Herdman Brook, and Haring Brook. Operated as a hunting and fishing lodge for decades - rainbow, brown, heron, kingfishers, eagles, larks , deer, bear, mink, beaver, bobcat - all there, right out the door, literally. You don't know what's going to come through your camp. The actual camp site itself is the ultimate in social distancing. As close to pure wilderness as it gets unless you're some place on the tundra. No vehicles allowed at site. From an easily accessible parking space, it's a mildly uphill ten minute hike through magical meadows deep into a hidden mountain valley in the midst of 250,000 acres. Utter privacy. The only sounds being the wind, the birds, yourself, and Herdman Brook rushing along a few yards east of your site. Once again no vehicles are allowed at the campsite itself. At one time, yes, but we needed to disallow it because the property was being torn up, and the beauty of the site is that it's so pristine. Be prepared for an easy 1/4 mile hike from the parking site to the camp site itself. Very basic. This is not glamping. No cabin. No platform. Need tent, tarp, or hammock, and you will sleep under more stars than you can possibly imagine. Fire ring, cooking grate, water bucket, hospital style commode. The Catskills are known for "growing rocks". Watch your step. This is true wilderness camping. You're off the grid at site - no cell service - but wifi available if necessary on front porch of main house aka base camp. 10 a.m. check in. 3 p.m. checkout. Please send ETA when possible. Campers ought to be aware that black bears live in these mountains., although you're not likely to see one unless it's running away from you. If you're really nervous bring bear spray, but you're not likely to need it. I literally chased one off our porch not a month ago. I would appreciate your purchasing human waste bags from me at base camp when you arrive. I'll have them here for $3.00/bag. Feel free to buy your own. You should also bring FIRE STARTER to make your life easier. We sell firewood as well - 7 logs/$10. As with the waste bags, we would appreciate buying the firewood directly from us. Wonderful hikes - one to a waterfall - trail head at end of Spruceton Rd. Hunter Brook, Devil's Notch, Fire Tower atop Hunter Mountain, Ridge of West Kill Mountain West Kill Brewery and Spruceton Inn Bed and Bar each half mile up the road. Civilized respites. 4 campers preferred. 6 possible. One more thing: DOGS. We have two: a 13 year old female whatever and a shepherd-husky mix, 4 years old, also female. They are quite friendly and docile, although the shepherd looks intimidating, and both roam the property at will 2-3 times/day. We would prefer you not bring your dog, however, if you must, please be certain it is well behaved 4.5 miles up County Rte 6 to 1833 Spruceton Rd., NY 12492 Old white farmhouse. On left. Coach lights. American flag. Welcome sign. Look for Baker Rd. Bridge directly opposite on right Stop at house for check in and guide to site. And Drive Carefully! PS: Pack it in. Pack it out. Please leave campsite as pristine as you found it.

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Catskill Glamping Site with views

1 site · Lodging25 acres · Jefferson, NY

Get away from it all when you stay under the stars - and we mean ALL THE STARS. Rustic off-grid camping experience, with all you need to enjoy time in nature. Canvas tent on an elevated platform, with a queen bed, firepit, rustic toilet, outdoor cooking, and eating area, off a dirt road with an amazing view. This is on our 25-acre property, 400 feet away from anyone! You will also be a 10-minute drive to Stamford, where there is a grocery store, restaurants, coffee shops, and more, and a 4-minute drive to downtown Jefferson, which has some restaurants, gas station, and other amenities. Picture this: you and your special someone, nestled in a cozy canvas tent, gazing up at a canvas of a million stars – unblemished by light pollution. No city hum, no social media notifications, just the crackling fire and the symphony of crickets serenading you. This isn't just camping, it's an escape to a world built for two, crafted on a secluded 25-acre property. Your haven awaits on an elevated platform, offering not just a dreamy view but a touch of luxury. A queen-sized bed beckons after a day of exploring, promising nights of comfortable closeness under the endless tapestry of stars. But the magic extends beyond the tent. Imagine whipping up a romantic campside dinner in the rustic outdoor kitchen, the aroma of woodsmoke mingling with laughter and whispered secrets. Share stories and dreams by the crackling firepit, the flames painting dancing shadows on your faces. Let the worries of the daily grind melt away with every s'more you roast. This isn't complete isolation, though. When the mood strikes for a touch of civilization, a quick 10-minute drive takes you to Stamford, brimming with charming cafes, local restaurants, and grocery stores to stock up on picnic provisions. Need a last-minute gift or a craving for a gourmet meal? Downtown Jefferson, just 4 minutes away, offers a delightful selection. The beauty lies in the perfect balance – an escape into the heart of nature, yet close enough to the comforts of small-town life. It's an experience designed for reconnection, for rekindling the spark, for creating memories that will linger long after the embers of the campfire fade. Is this the getaway you and your love have been yearning for?

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Bisaccia Botanical Gardens

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Delhi, NY

Bisaccia Botanical Gardens was once part of the 160 Acre, Meridale Farms. Historically, Meridale Farms was a premiere dairy farm known for its special breed of dairy cows. Stone walls at the front of the property were constructed in the late 17th century and are a testament to the history of the property.Learn more about this land:Small, organic, vegetable farm located in the Northwest portion of the Catskill Mountains situated between the cities of Delhi and Oneonta. Exquisite views. Hiking, swimming and fishing opportunities are within easy driving distance. Hunter Mountain, Howe Caverns, Cooperstown, Waterfalls, State Parks, local historical museums and scenic train rides are close by. On site amenities include BB Gun Range, Archery, Horseshoes, Volleyball, Frisbee Golf. Fine dining, movie theaters, miniature golf and shopping are located in Oneonta and/or Delhi.

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Hogan's Landing

4 sites · RVs, Tents101 acres · Esperance, NY

Property was an Airport called Red Wing back in the 60's and 70's. Purchased and made many improvements. Pond, hiking trails, grass and paved runway. A must see property. We now have new facilities for special events, such as WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARIES, REUNIONS, MEETINGS & BIRTHDAYS. For both sites there are numerous trails in forest for camping, hiking . Fire wood is available for purchase at the camp site. You can set up your camp site almost anywhere you choose. Crystal clear pond has fountains, swing, dock, canoes, paddle boat & fire pit. Two (2) runways for those that want to fly in. (NY05) Fantastic Views !!!!! Site seeing flights thru the valley available. At both sites we ask when leaving, they must remain as you arrived and what was carried in must be carried out. At present there are no dumpsters available. Final note : If you prefer to use the whole property exclusively, please contact us for an addition rates and we will block the other site.

The best camping near Glimmerglass State Park guide

Overview

About

Immortalized as “Glimmerglass Lake” in James Fenimore Cooper’s classic “Leatherstocking Tales” novels, the storybook scenery of this state park should come as little surprise. Follow the wooded trails down to the shores of Otsego Lake, where you can picnic on the sandy beach, cool off with a swim, or rent a kayak to paddle out across the lake. Away from the water, peek inside the historic Hyde Hall, admire the Hyde Hall Covered Bridge (the oldest in the country), then head to Shadow Brook to check into Glimmerglass State Campground.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve one of 50 campsites at Glimmerglass State Campground via the Reserve America website. A 2-night minimum stay applies.
Online reservations open nine months in advance and can be made up until 3pm on the day of arrival.
Campsites can book up fast for summer and holiday weekends, so book at least three months in advance. Just six sites have electric hookups, and these spots tend to book up first.

When to go

Camping season at Glimmerglass runs from May through September, a great time for swimming and watersports. Seasonal activities take place year-round, with hiking and biking tracks transforming into snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails come winter, and boating and fishing giving way to ice skating and ice fishing. An added bonus for off-season visitors—no admission fee after Labor Day.

Know before you go

Glimmerglass State Park is set along the northeastern shore of Otsego Lake, about a 10-minute drive north of Cooperstown.
Day-use parking fees apply at all New York state parks, as well as campsite booking fees. Vehicle fees at Glimmerglass are waived in low season.
Park facilities include restrooms, picnic areas, a concession stand, a playground, and a basketball court. Accessible campsites, parking, and restrooms are available, and The Meadow hiking trail is also accessible.