The best camping near Glimmerglass State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Glimmerglass adventure.

75% (2 reviews)
75% (2 reviews)

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

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Community favorites near Glimmerglass State Park

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Top-rated campgrounds near Glimmerglass State Park

93%
(92)

Sacred Waterfall & Quiet Camping

60 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 Spout Waterfall, is a world unto itself. For generations, the majestic waterfall has been revered for its spectacular beauty and powerful energies. 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 Skóhare, the Schoharie Valley. Surrounded by 25 acres of both private wooded land and wide-open fields of wildflowers and fireflies, the Waterfall Cabin and Campsite are easily accessible, just off a country back road. From the campsites, it's about a 10 minute hike down the gorge to the waterfall. We do not allow partying the campsites. There is a profound healing process happening at the waterfall. At the request of the Kaneinekehaka caretakers we ask that you to respect the sacredness of this land. Thank you! There are two campsites on the property, not far from each other in the forest. One campsite is in a grass circle clearing and the other has a rustic cabin and three small flat terraces for extra tents. 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. The campsites are not within view of each other. 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. Make a campfire at your fire pit and fall asleep under the stars listening to a 150' waterfall and the river below. 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. The waterfall is amazing but the hike is steep, so please wear appropriate footwear. 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. 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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$120
 / night
Booked 11 times

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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$100
 / night

Bison Island Ranch

1 site · Lodging184 acres · Sharon Springs, NY
The Tipi offers a unique stay on a working Bison Ranch, where we take pride in raising grass-fed, grass-finished bison. Located three hours northwest of NYC, just one hour west of Albany, and a mere 30 minutes from Cooperstown, our tranquil retreat promises an unforgettable experience. During your stay at The Tipi, you'll have exclusive access to a stunning private spring-fed pond, perfect for swimming and fishing. Stocked with rainbow trout and bass, the pond provides ample opportunities for angling, with fishing poles available for rent. Nature abounds at The Tipi, with resident bald eagles, kingfishers, and herons gracing the surroundings, ideal for birdwatching enthusiasts. A nearby creek offers scenic walks, while a walking trail encircles the pond. Our on-site Bathhouse ensures comfort and convenience, featuring a shower, toilet, and changing area, with towels and bed linens provided. The Tipi itself is a full-size, authentically crafted Sioux-style tipi, the sole one on the property. Furnished with unique hand-hewn bunk beds (twin over full), the space boasts lighting, a coffee maker, electric outlets for phone chargers, a cooler, and a propane grill. For added convenience, local breakfast options are available, including farm-fresh eggs, bread, yogurt, and milk. Explore our Ranch Store, offering an array of bison products such as burgers, steaks, jerky, and handmade jewelry, along with our NEW bison tallow personal care products. Guests of The Tipi enjoy priority booking for Bison Adventure Tours, providing an immersive glimpse into ranch life. Unwind by the campfire, soak in the breathtaking sunsets, and marvel at the spectacular star-filled skies. Drift off to sleep serenaded by the chorus of frogs and awaken to the harmonious melodies of birdsong. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Upstate New York at The Tipi.
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$250
 / night

Red Creek Hideaway In Cooperstown

1 site · Tent11 acres · Cooperstown, NY
Nestled in a serene valley along Red Creek in Cooperstown, NY, a mere 2.5 miles from the Baseball Hall of Fame and Lake Otsego, our accommodation offers a truly unique experience. Picture a private cabin in the woods – only, in this case, it's a safari-style tent, providing an intimate connection with nature. Our Red Creek Hideaway is not just a place to stay; it's a haven where comfort, convenience, and the great outdoors seamlessly come together. Enjoy the luxury of private access to beautiful Red Creek, creating the perfect backdrop for relaxation, exploration, swimming, or fishing. The safari-style tent is so well-appointed and stocked with amenities that you may find it tempting to extend your stay throughout the summer. All the necessary equipment and glamping amenities are thoughtfully provided, ensuring a hassle-free and memorable experience. For a detailed list of amenities and to discover more about the unique offerings of our Red Creek Hideaway, visit www.redcreekhideaway. Immerse yourself in a getaway that combines the charm of a private cabin in the woods with the comforts of modern glamping. Your escape to nature begins here.
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$169
 / night
97%
(149)

Glamping Tent Overlooking Waterfall

3 sites · Lodging12 acres · Downsville, NY
Learn more about this land: Stay in our cozy 8’x10 ‘ wall tent on a 14’x16’ deck built next to a waterfall. The site includes include a private outdoor shower and a well serviced outhouse per site. Relax in front of the fire pit and grill that overlooks the falls. You will have plenty of privacy, surrounded by woods, access to lush forest, and modern amenities such as: WiFiprovided by Starlink, queen bed, propane tent heater to keep you warm in the cooler months, Brooklinen sheets. The property allows lots of beauty, peace, and serenity. Feel free to roam the 12 acres of woods, fields, waterfalls, and brooks. There are 3 historic waterfalls on the property. Within our small town, you can find all your essential needs met at the stores close by, as well as some great restaurants. Area surrounding the site as well as the areas not surrounding the main house, are accessible with caution. Access to the brook is at your own risk. Brook subject to flooding. Please note location of water rescue equipment at the site. Don’t forget the ice for the Yeti cooler!
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$135
 / night
99%
(770)

Tilden Hill Farm

14 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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$45
 / night
Booked 2 times

Strawberry Hill Camps

3 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Hartwick, NY
Beautiful location on a hill with beautiful views of sunrise and wildlife. 3 Campsites to choose from or rent them all for a group event. Scenic, Simplistic & Serene - each boast it's own unique features. Each site is well equipped with 5 inch memory foam bed under a heavy duty canvas tent on a raised platform. Picnic table, fire-pit, loo, trash can and much more available.
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$85
 / night

Gamba Hills Cooperstown

2 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Richfield Springs, NY
GAMBA Hills @ Cooperstown is a 22 acre wooded oasis of wild flowers and grassy knolls with expansive views of Canadarago Lake. The front portion of the property has a. number of spaces to camp with the rear of the property being heavily wooded and great for hiking and nature exploration. Set up your tent beneath the apple trees, amongst the queens Anne's lace or in one of the woodland enclaves. There are grape vines, a garden and a plethora of spaces to sit and relax. You can read beneath the trees or lounge on a blanket in the sun. We have two seasonal hammocks, a couple different fire pits and plenty of forest to explore. We are within a short drive to the famous and historic Cooperstown (home of the Baseball Hall of Fame), the beaches and restaurants of Otsego Lake as well as Richfield Springs, Cherry Valley and Fly Creek. In Fly creek we own a 15 acre plot of gorgeous conservation land for you to wander and explore.
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$75
 / night
100%
(1)

Coyote Hollow Park

3 sites · Lodging46 acres · Mount Vision, NY
Welcome to Coyote Hollow Park, located within 20 minutes from Cooperstown NY, but close to all the things Oneonta City has to offer, such as Field of Dreams, Baseball Hall of Fame, and the NY State Parks have to offer. Coyote Hollow Park has everything you need for a relaxing weekend to a week away from it all. Just like camping out except you are camping in! We offer cooking utensils, Bathhouses, and fruit trees and bushes. Bring food, Kick back, relax and watch the stars. Coyote Hollow Park is accepting 2023 reservations, please contact us on google maps. Follow Us on Facebook for updates and discounts. Disclaimer I acknowledge that I understand that during my participation in any activities at Coyote Hollow Park, I may be exposed to a variety of hazards and risks, foreseen or unforeseen, which are inherent. These inherent risks and hazards may result in loss, damage, injury, sickness or death. With full knowledge of these dangers, I hereby agree for myself, all of my family and heirs, to RELEASE Coyote Hollow Park and any of its employees, members, agents from liability, claims, demands or any causes of action, and NOT TO USE OR OTHERWISE MAKE ANY CLAIM against Coyote Hollow Park or any of its member groups, representatives or agents whatsoever which may arise during my participation in any activities of Coyote Hollow Park. To the extent allowed by law, I intend this RELEASE OF LIABILITY to be effective whether or not any loss, damage, injury or death results from the negligence of Coyote Hollow Park or any of its agents, representatives. I understand that negligence means a failure to do an act which a reasonable, careful person would do, or the doing of an act which a reasonable, careful person would not do, under the same or similar circumstances, to protect himself, herself or others from injury or death. I assume the risk and full responsibility for any personal injuries, including injuries resulting in death, which might occur, even if caused by the negligence or lack of care of Coyote Hollow Park, representatives or agents. I agree to be solely responsible for my own safety and to take every precaution to provide for my own safety and well-being while participating in any activities at Coyote Hollow Park which including but not limited to hiking/exploring of property, soaking/hot tubs, waterway, fishing, swimming, garden, free breakfast, solar equipment, TV's, camping equipment use of any rented items (including but not limited to Mr. heater, camp-stove, movie projector) or items sold at/from camp store/Coyote Hollow Park. I have read this document in its entirety and I freely and voluntarily assume all risks of such injuries and hazards and notwithstanding such risks, I agree to participate when booking. https://www.facebook.com/Coyote-Hollow-Park-111903361551895/
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$145
 / night
100%
(2)

Karen S.’s Land

2 sites · RVs, Tents89 acres · Cherry Valley, NY
Located near Cooperstown and the famous opera. Walk to waterfalls, Cycling, boating, horseback riding.
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$30
 / night
100%
(53)

Hogan's Landing

3 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.
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$130
 / night
100%
(2)

Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA Resort

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents250 acres · Middleville, NY
Welcome to the Herkimer Diamond Mines Resort, Where you can prospect for one of the oldest, clearest, double-terminated quartz crystals in the World... Herkimer Diamonds! Located in New York's Mohawk Valley Region, right between the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains. Just miles away from the Historic Mohawk River and Erie Canal. Surrounded by stunning mountains, miles of hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and glistening lakes as far as the eye can see. The Herkimer Diamond Mines Resort can be found nestled along the West Canada Creek, offering you an experience unlike any other! The Herkimer Diamond Home to one of the oldest, clearest Quartz Crystals in the world - The Herkimer Diamond! These gemstones were faceted naturally over 500 million years ago! These magnificent crystals are found in the rock, having a diamond-like geometrical shape. Thus, the name recognition of “Herkimer Diamond”. Miners' Village is located right next to the campground, offering a variety of shops and activities for everyone! The first stop will be “Village Hall” where you will register your family for mining and receive your equipment. Then you can stop by “Rockhound Academy”, our Education Center and Museum, where you will learn how to mine for your own Herkimer Diamonds! Next door is the “Trading Post” Gift Shop, Sluice, Florescent Room, Artisan Center, and Canteen Cafe! One you are outside you will be directed to our open rock quarry, where you will be able to mine for your very own Herkimer Diamonds. Sift through the dirt, search on the ground, or use your hammer to break open rocks! Everything you find is yours to keep. Camping or "Glamping" Our campground offers many ways to stay, take in the beautiful views, mine for Herkimer Diamonds, and celebrate the area's rich history. We offer Tent Sites for those looking to spend the night cozied up beneath the stars. Choose between our Creekside and Field Tent Sites, as well as optional electric hookups. For the “Glampers”, our Lodging options offer an assortment of perks to give you the comfort you want. From our Camping Cabins that provide just a bed, roof and refrigerator to our Deluxe Lodging that come with patios, bathrooms and partial kitchens, you will learn what camping in style really means. Are you a star-gazing enthusiast? Check out one of our Astronomy themed lodges, each equipped with a high-powered telescope! Spend the night in a Treehouse, or learn about sustainable energy while you reduce your carbon footprint by camping in one of our Solar Powered Lodges. At The Herkimer Diamond Mines Resort, we also provide a variety of RV Sites. Full- Hookup or Water/ Electric Pull Thru, Back In, and Pull In sites offer you the ability to camp however you'd like! Grab a spot along the creek and bring a friend, buddy sites are available! We have a variety of KOA Patios for that elevated camping experience! No matter how you choose to stay, High Speed Wi-Fi and Laundry Facilities are available 24/7 to all guests and Golf Cart rentals are available at the main office to make your trip even more comfortable. Coming soon… Camping on a whole new level! Right across the street from the Campground, above the Diamond Mines, we are hard at work on our new development. This new area of the park will offer a whole new camping experience! Whether you would be looking for a spacious site with a spectacular view of the Valley, or if you prefer to be nestled among the trees for a more private camping experience. Spacious RV Sites, Wooded Tent Sites, and New Lodging Options are soon to come. This new adventure is one you won't want to miss!
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$52
 / night

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

  1. You can reserve one of 50 campsites at Glimmerglass State Campground via the Reserve America website. A 2-night minimum stay applies.
  2. Online reservations open nine months in advance and can be made up until 3pm on the day of arrival. 
  3. 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. 

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