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Camping near Utica

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Just 35 miles south of the Adirondacks, this small city is a gateway to central New York. With lakes, marshes, and the Erie Canal, Utica is fascinating for urban adventurers and families alike.

The Erie Canal hasn't run directly through Utica for nearly a century. Today, the paved-over waterway is the 13.5-mile Canalway Trail. The flat terrain makes for easy biking. The trail passes the Utica Marsh Wildlife Management Area, a nice spot for nature walks and birding.

The Mohawk River is also here, offering a watery view of the shore's shuttered factories and wildlife. To launch, take your canoe to Harbor Road near Genesee Street in Utica. You can also hop aboard an Erie Canal tour boat, with options from group kayaks to house boats. The guides are a great source of Erie history and can explain finer points like the canal's antique locks.

Kayakers can pitch tent at Lock 20 in Marcy, NY. The facilities have bathrooms and water, but the first-come, first-serve camping is quite small, so try to arrive early.

In nearby Rome, Delta Lake State Park sits on a peninsula jutting into the Delta Reservoir. A popular spot for fishing, the park has a boat launch and a sandy beach with lifeguards during the summer. The camp has spacious sites, some on the waterfront, and each comes with a picnic table and fire ring. The wooded grounds here are relatively flat, making for easy walking along the trails.

Pixley Falls State Park is a short drive from Delta Lake. The star of the park is the 50-foot tall waterfall. A hiking trail follows the streams uphill for deeper exploration.

The private campgrounds in the Adirondack foothills are great if you want a summer camp vibe. Close to Utica, these camps range from rustic cabins to RV parks and resorts. Several offer extras such as fishing ponds and swimming pools, plus amenities like Wi-Fi and laundry.

Utica is well-situated for day trips, with Lake Ontario and the Finger Lakes both about 80 miles away. Less than an hour away, the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown is a must-see for sports fans.

97% (1.5K) 2,656 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Utica

West Canada Creek Farm

1. West Canada Creek Farm

100%
(55)
11mi from Utica · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
115 acres along the West Canada Creek. Great spots for fishing, swimming and or tubing down the river. Fishing just down the creek from the trophy waters of the West Canada Creek. Fields and woods for hiking. Also great for bird watching, have a grassy pond that is popular with various species of birds. Stay in a lean-to overlooking the West Canada Creek or stay in the screen house next to the creek.
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R & B Acres

2. R & B Acres

100%
(21)
14mi from Utica · 1 site · Tent, RV
Let Renee and Bill welcome you to the beautiful Mohawk Valley on our 10+ acres micro-farm, with spectacular views of the Adirondack foothills. Camp open field, pine grove or spacious orchard setting. Only 1 1/2 miles from the Herkimer Diamond Mines. 9 miles to the amazing Erie Canal Cruise tour. Secluded, but less than a mile to Stewart's shop for essentials, and 8 miles to major shopping. Close to state parks, biking and hiking trails. Dogs welcome with an additional $10 fee. Firewood sales, generator and tent rentals. We are welcoming to LGBTQ+ campers, all ethnicities, religions, live acoustic music and 420 friendly in private sites. From inexperienced campers who might need assistance to experienced campers who just want space, this is the place to be!
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Tilden Hill Farm

3. Tilden Hill Farm

99%
(1264)
15mi from Utica · 22 sites · Tents, RVs
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. There are 2 bath houses on the campground with hot showers and toilets. All sites include a fire pit and picnic table. We have 10 full hook up sites (water/electric/sewer) and 9 sites with water and electric. There is a dump station and fire wood available to all for a fee. Once settled in, take a meandering walk through our 12 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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Delta Lake State Park

4. Delta Lake State Park

State park 16mi from Utica · 101 sites
Swim, fish, and hike around a secluded lake in the middle of New York.
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Verona Beach State Park

5. Verona Beach State Park

State park 26mi from Utica · 46 sites
Leave the hustle and bustle of daily life and step into pure relaxation at Verona Beach State Park. Spend the day on the beach soaking up the rays, explore the Woods and Wetland trail or trot down the horse trails; you’re sure to reconnect with Mother Nature. Hunters and anglers migrate to this spot, even during the winter months for some good ol' brew-fueled ice fishing.
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Reflections Homestead

6. Reflections Homestead

100%
(33)
16mi from Utica · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
I live off grid in one of the toughest climates in the US. I have about 15 acres of land bordered by 10,000 acres of wild forest preserve. Locals refer to this area as The Hill because of its unique weather anomalies. I share my experiences with campers in good weather but exist here all year. I am a Qualified NYS Woodland Guide. My actual license is pending the processing of fees and registration. This should be complete by August 1st of this year. I have over a half century of knowledge gained through a lifetime of hiking, exploring and living in this environment. My main focus is the land, lakes, ponds and streams in the lower Adirondack Park. I leave the high peaks, ice climbing and white water rafting to others that choose that speciality. My goal in guiding is not that of a just a follow me and listen guide. I strive to help those interested in learning about and enjoying the outdoors safely so that you take away real life skills you can use once we are done. I did search and resuce work as a volunteer for many years under DEC Forest Rangers. To help contain costs l will allow up to groups of people to participate at one time. Also. If you would like Amish made products, l can arrange that as well. There is a very conservative Amish community in the surrounding area. I consider these people my good friends and l am very familiar with their customs, traditions and lifestyles. Many people are now thinking of doing what we have done. If you so choose, we can schedule time to discuss any of the offgrid issues that may be unanswered in your mind. The original intent was to offer a peaceful place for you to escape for a time. That is still my main purpose. If you are interested in the full story, contact me, Karl, for more information upon arrival or by phone 518 935 5152. Regular business hours. Hope to see you soon. Bring what you expect you will need and be prepared to take home knowledge and lifelong memories created alone or with my help. See you soon. Please check out my reviews. I am thankful for what l have and proud of what l have done here to protect and preserve these woods for me and my guests. Thank you, Karl Pettigrew
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Herkimer Area Private Field Camping

7. Herkimer Area Private Field Camping

100%
(13)
17mi from Utica · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape to a private, open field in scenic upstate New York—perfect for peaceful camping, stargazing, and unplugging from the noise. We're also pet friendly! Set on 12 acres of historic land once part of a Ford dairy farm in the 1800s and later an apple orchard, this quiet retreat offers a unique blend of open space and local history. Our site features easy access with a newly installed gravel driveway (no more mud!), making it ideal for tents, vans, and small RVs. Located just minutes away * The Herkimer Diamond Mines * Erie Canal Cruises * Dikindurt Distillery * Dining at Beardslee Castle * Tee Time Mini Golf * Utica Zoo * Plantation Island Wildlife Center * Fonda Racetrack * Herkimer River - Kayaking - Canoeing * West Canadian Creek * Just 60 minutes from Cooperstown NY Baseball Hall of Fame. and within reach of the Adirondack region, it’s a great basecamp for exploring—or simply relaxing in total privacy. Wake up to wide-open skies, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and end your day with incredible stargazing in a calm, natural setting.
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Williams Corners

8. Williams Corners

100%
(23)
26mi from Utica · 2 sites
We are a family that travels in our RV fulltime and have created this private oasis for travelers to unwind. This location is in a quiet area in the rolling hills of Morrisville. Our property is a rolling hill with views from the top, a pond with a pavilion, and flat area at the bottom. We are 5-10 minutes from a couple of small lakes for boating and fishing and 15 minutes from larger Cazenovia lake. We are also close to Delphi falls that has hiking and a really nice waterfall to visit and walk in. There are other local parks and hiking in the area for things to do. We are only 5 minutes outside of Morrisville and 15 minutes to both Cazenovia and Hamilton (weekend farmers markets). There are plenty of places to visit that are close including local wineries and 3 casinos within 30 minutes. Some day trip attractions: Eaton Reservoir- paddling less than 10 min away Cazenovia Lake - swimming, paddling 15 min away Chittenango Falls - hiking 20 min away Green Lakes State park - swimming, paddling, hiking 30 min away Rexford Falls - hiking 30 min away The Wild Animal Park - Zoo with safari 30 min away Jamesville Beach Park - swimming, paddling 35 min away Tinker Falls - hiking 35 min away Pixley Falls - hiking 1 hr away Carpenter Falls - hiking 1hr away Fillmore Glen State Park - waterfall, hiking approx 1 hr away Ithaca gorges and waterfalls 1 hr 30-1 hr 45 minutes away Corning Glass and Watkins Glen 2 hrs away Howe Caverns 1 hr 30 hrs away Old Forge and Enchanted Water Safari 1 hr 30 hrs away NY City 4 hr 30 hrs away
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Camp Benjamin

9. Camp Benjamin

100%
(39)
28mi from Utica · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This 9-Acre Permaculture farm project, which includes fruit & nut trees, annual and perennial gardens, chickens, vermiculture, rainwater catchment systems. Property offers walking trails, camping areas with fire pits. Seasonal Concerts & Events... Property is a Certified Wildlife Habitat.
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Glimmerglass State Park

10. Glimmerglass State Park

83%
(3)
State park 28mi from Utica · 43 sites
Named after a literary legend, this is an idyllic setting for outdoor explorers.
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Gilbert Lake State Park

11. Gilbert Lake State Park

100%
(3)
State park 37mi from Utica · 168 sites
Spend a lazy day on the lake (or a busy day on the trails) in this woodsy upstate park.
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Green Lakes State Park

12. Green Lakes State Park

86%
(7)
State park 38mi from Utica · 139 sites
This upstate New York park has striking scenery and year-round adventure.
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Adirondack State Park

13. Adirondack State Park

96%
(148)
State park 85mi from Utica · 5193 sites
The Adirondacks lounge across a million acres only a 4-hour drive from NYC.
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Awe Inspiring Views Cabin & Tenting

14. Awe Inspiring Views Cabin & Tenting

100%
(15)
31mi from Utica · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Home of Alambria Springs Farm, HeartStone Artisan Bakery and Hope Springs Eternal Horse Sanctuary. From Dairy farm, to organic produce farm, to artisan bakery, to horse sanctuary as the land transitions to it's natural state of being. Awe inspiring views from our off grid sleeping cabin or tent site both located along the ridge. Nature abounds with many birds, butterflies, bees, deer, etc. Incredible sunsets, star gazing, crickets, and fireflies! We look forward to sharing this sacred spot on earth with you! Stay in our off grid cabin for a bit more luxury or pack your camping gear and hit the ridge with your tent! We look forward to seeing you soon!
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Cooperstown Beaver Valley Cabins and Campsites

15. Cooperstown Beaver Valley Cabins and Campsites

96%
(14)
33mi from Utica · 65 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled on 276 acres of natural beauty. Our goal at Beaver Valley is to provide you, our guest, the best experience we can so that all you need to focus on at your camp home is relaxing and enjoying the time with those you care about. Please, this is not a party hearty kind of place! Family friendly :) Deluxe Cabins: 1 bedroom with loft, bathroom & kitchenette RV Sites: Water/Electric/Sewer, Water/Electric; Wooded, Grassy Rustic Camping Cabins: 1 room with fridge & microwave Rustic Sites: Pond, Wooded, Grassy Tiny Homes: 1 bedroom with loft, bathroom & kitchen Fire ring and picnic table at every site, cabin and tiny home. 10 minutes to Cooperstown, Baseball Hall of Fame, Brewery Ommegang, Fenimore Farm & Country Village, Fenimore Art Museum 10 minutes to Dreams Park 20 minutes to All Star Village, Glimmerglass Opera Dewey Fields at Beaver Valley: Major League Field; Little League Field rentals. Beautiful Event Hall: Seats 125 plus a dance floor available for rent on the campground as well.
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Pink Mountain

16. Pink Mountain

100%
(11)
33mi from Utica · 1 site
Enjoy unmatched privacy 5 minutes from the Baseball Hall of Fame. Singular proximity to Cooperstown in 160 acres of hillside wilderness at the area's highest elevation at our. Come rest and relax under the star filled skies of upstate NY. Enjoy the sounds and sights of nature while on your secluded and private retreat from every day life. Just 1.5 miles from the beautiful Glimmer Glass lake and historic Cooperstown. Please explore the trails within the blue boundary marks and use all the firewood you please. Site is a canvas glamping platform tent with queen size bed. Amenities include privacy tent for toilet, pop up tent for extra guests, sun shower, fire pit grill and more - Enjoy your stay! IMPORTANT: 1. Ours is a rough and narrow road, please drive with care 2. Bedding is NOT provided 3. We prefer low maintenance and affable guests who are interested in spending time in nature.
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Coyote Hollow Park

17. Coyote Hollow Park

98%
(32)
34mi from Utica · 3 sites
Nestled on 40 peaceful acres in Upstate New York, our eco-friendly glamping retreat offers the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle. Surrounded by wild blueberry bushes and serene mountain woods, our solar-powered accommodations blend rustic charm with comfortable luxury. Your Stay & Amenities Private Soaking Tubs: Every site now features its own dedicated soaking tub! Tubs act like hot tubs (reusable throughout your stay) and are filled once for stays of 3 nights or less. (Note: Tub access requires a 2-night minimum stay). Cozy Sleeping: Rest easy in a comfortable queen-size bed outfitted with fresh linens, extra blankets, and heated blankets for chilly mountain nights. Fresh Farm Breakfast: Fuel your morning with complimentary breakfast served from 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM, featuring fresh eggs, waffles, coffee, tea, and hot cocoa. Campfire Cooking: Each site is stocked with the essentials for campfire cooking. Propane cooktops are also available to rent. Bathhouse: Access to a fully stocked bathhouse with hot running water (Site 3 includes private bath amenities). Farm Friends: Meet our free-roaming chickens and ducks! (Yes, our rooster likes to crow in the morning to welcome the day). Explore Upstate NY We’re conveniently located near Cooperstown's Baseball Hall of Fame, Dreams Park, pristine New York State Parks, local craft breweries, wineries, and scenic hiking trails. Whether you’re cooking dinner over an open flame or soaking under the stars, we’ve thoughtfully curated this space to feel like your quiet home away from home. Bring your favorite food, kick back, and let the stars dance across the night sky.
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The Smithy

18. The Smithy

100%
(13)
35mi from Utica · 1 site
Charming secluded, private camp that sleeps one or two, down a private woodsy dirt road atop a hill outside hamlet of Roseboom, near Cherry Valley NY. 20 minutes to Cooperstown. A gently-managed tree farm, property includes forests and open meadows, even a ravine stream. Spectacular night skies, birds, wildlife. Lots of trail and hiking options. A former farm blacksmith shop with weathered siding-- a ‘smithy’-- the camp has electricity, features a raised, built-in full size bed with storage drawers underneath, a compact kitchen corner with hot / cold water, an intimate dining area. Kitchen amenities include induction hotplate, electric coffee mill and French press coffee maker, kettle, pots & pans, cooler, plates/mugs/bowls /cutlery for two. Unheated. Outside, enjoy the generous rustic deck with outdoor seating/ table, charcoal grill, outdoor shower built with locust trees from the land ( hot / cold water). Nearby spring-fed pond. For swimming bring watershoes, fishing permitted. More Trails/hiking: a nearby nature preserve and forested state land (within 10 mins.). Pets welcome. Incredibly peaceful, private, secluded. A nearby, new, beautiful outhouse. Explore the rural micro community: Nearby hamlet of Roseboom has friendly Bobs Country Store for supplies (ice, eggs, milk, meat etc); Roseboom Café for rural dining out (open Thurs and Friday); Stannard Maple Farm for maple syrup from our own trees. Resource list provided will include contacts for local vegetable gardeners -- and artists. 20 minutes from Cooperstown.
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Smyrna Lake Campsite

19. Smyrna Lake Campsite

97%
(46)
35mi from Utica · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The site is located on a private lake (90 acres). Campsite sits on 7 acres of woods only a few hundred feet from the lake & dock. No more RV sites in the property, only one spot. It is quiet, private and relaxing. The vibe of the lake is to chill and relax, laud activities not encourage. No motorboats allowed on lake for a more relaxing experienced. Bass fishing is amazing and the water is perfect for swimming. Next to the campsite you will have a nice fire pit with Adirondack chairs, plenty of firewood for sale at a low cost. Dogs allowed, maximum party of 4. Water, sewer and electrical hookups. Wi-Fi its free. No bathrooms or showers in the premises. Exact location: 42.69024° N, 75.64003° W -Camp entrance is on the left-hand side on Cherrywood way (107 is the address #). There will be a brown cabin (empty) in the center of the property. Checkout these videos of the property: video of the lake: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ss6Iq_FjlOU video of campsite: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Wvm3nQjhCU
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Milk & Honey Homestead

20. Milk & Honey Homestead

100%
(10)
35mi from Utica · 1 site
We are a small homestead with some goats, ducks and chickens, we live in an off grid Tiny cabin and rent out another tiny cabin. We are nestled comfortably in the woods. Road that goes through the woods and opens into picturesque meadow. Close to nature hikes, lakes and rivers for fishing. Perfect spot to unwind, enjoy some quiet time
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Frequently Asked Questions

Utica is a gateway to central New York, offering opportunities for biking along the 13.5-mile Canalway Trail, nature walks and birding at Utica Marsh Wildlife Management Area, and canoeing on the Mohawk River. You can also explore different options for camping near Utica on Hipcamp.

You can go kayaking near Utica at Lock 20 in Marcy, NY. The facilities have bathrooms and water, but the first-come, first-serve camping is quite small, so try to arrive early. You can also explore different options for camping near Utica on Hipcamp.

Nearby state parks and attractions near Utica include Delta Lake State Park in Rome, which offers fishing, a boat launch, a sandy beach, and spacious camping sites. Pixley Falls State Park is also a short drive from Delta Lake, featuring a 50-foot tall waterfall and hiking trails. Additionally, Utica is well-situated for day trips to Lake Ontario, the Finger Lakes, and the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. You can also explore different options for camping near Utica on Hipcamp.

Yes, there are private campgrounds in the Adirondack foothills near Utica. These camps range from rustic cabins to RV parks and resorts, offering extras such as fishing ponds, swimming pools, wifi, and laundry facilities. You can also explore different options for camping near Utica on Hipcamp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Top national parks and forests near Utica, NY