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

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Glimmerglass State Park

94%
(93)

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
99%
(782)

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

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
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%
(90)

EarthSong

2 sites · Tents29 acres · Fort Plain, NY
Beautiful secluded 29-acre property in rural New York. This land had once been part of a large farm for a few hundred years and was subdivided in the early 1990.. Field by field it was let "go wild" and the forests and old fields are rich in stages of succession and biological diversity. There are miles of maintained trails...and even more if you want to go on trails made by deer and rabbits.Learn more about this land:Put up a tent or sleep under the stars in an clearing in an old meadow, surrounded by forest. Several trails lead to other places on the land. Campsite is about a 4-5 minute walk from parking area. Wagon available to haul your stuff back and forth.
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$30
 / 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
100%
(1)

Luxury Belle Tent Camping

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Worcester, NY
Welcome to our luxury belle tent! We hope you can enjoy this place as much as we do. Our tent has a queen size bed, and some light furnishings for you to relax during your stay.Beautiful hikes up to the open field and a tiny creek next to the tent for calming sounds.15 minutes to 5 state forests for trails and more hikes. 30 minutes to Cooperstown and glimmer glass park. 1 hour to ski resorts.Parking: Turn in the dirt road and park at the end of the road.For hikes, find your trail or follow the stream to the open hill for beautiful hillside views for sunrise and sunset.Toilet and showers provided outside winter.Expect absolute peace and quiet.Learn more about this land:Welcome to our luxury belle tent! We hope you can enjoy this place as much as we do. Our tent has a queen size bed, and some light furnishings for you to relax during your stay. Beautiful hikes up to the open field and a tiny creek next to the tent for calming sounds. 15 minutes to 5 state forests for trails and more hikes. 30 minutes to Cooperstown and glimmer glass park. 1 hour to ski resorts. Parking:Turn in the dirt road and park at the end of the road.For hikes, find your trail or follow the stream to the open hill for beautiful hillside views for sunrise and sunset.Toilet and showers provided outside winter. Expect absolute peace and quiet.
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$100
 / 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
100%
(10)

The Swim Pond at Olin Springs

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Mount Vision, NY
The property was historically used for milk cows grazing and the farmer would put the milk jugs in the main emergent spring to keep cold. Federal wetlands in the back are protected from adding to or changing, but can be explored in your wellies! There was nothing on the land when purchased in 2018. We wanted to create our own lake front property for our retirement. The man made pond is blue clay, spring fed and holds water year round. Is was stocked with large mouth bass and channel catfish in 2020. Please, only keep fish over 12 inches. Learn more about this land: Camp in the meadows or down by the pond. Also a small stream and wetlands to explore. All campers can pick where they want to set up camp.
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$40
 / 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
44%
(9)

Streams and near-by Activities

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Gilboa, NY
The site was once home to the Old Gilboa Post Office and has amazing ecological features including fossilsLearn more about this land:This is a 2 acre site that offers a wonderful terrain with 2 streams one being seasonal and the other spring fed, wooded hills and 4 seperate clearings to set up a campsite. The Driveways are large enough to fit a 36ft Travel Trailer or even a small watercraft with Trailer. There are plenty of activities in the area from hiking, fishing, wildlife watching, fossil hunting, sight seeing and more. 
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$15
 / night

Mountain View Dome on Forest Farm

1 site · Lodging171 acres · Cobleskill, NY
Welcome to The Dome on Long Future Farms! Our unique farm lodging is designed to provide a unique and relaxing experience for 2-4 guests, with a focus on minimizing our environmental impact and supporting local ecological farming. Our dome offers a breathtaking view of our 171-acre agroforestry land, hills and ponds, allowing you to truly connect with the natural beauty of the region. This place is an ideal choice for those seeking outdoor adventures or relaxation in all seasons. Go swim in the ponds. Use the bikes on the property or walk around at your own pace to explore the farm. Savor the sunset from our private terrace as you grill up a feast. And for the ultimate stargazing experience, gather around our private firepit for a cozy evening under the stars. The location also provides direct access to snowmobile trails leading all the way up to Canada and is close to natural caves, the stunning Catskill Mountains and Cooperstown, NY. Geodesic domes can be an exciting and unique experience for adults and children, especially on a farm. To maintain a warm and welcoming environment for all our visitors, we strongly invite you to read our House Rules prior to booking. The Dome is equipped with modern and environmentally friendly amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. We have opted for dry toilets. Instructions on how to easily use them are available in The Dome. This choice reflects our values and desire to educate guests on sustainable living. Dry toilets are deeply rooted in Finnish culture, fitting perfectly with Ben (co-owner of HazelHuts)'s Finnish background and our commitment to sustainability. Guests have access to the private dome and outdoor dining area, as well as the farm. The storage unit under the dome is not accessible. All amenities listed below are available exclusively for the guest/s: - Comfortable queen bed with king and queen-size pillows and luxury linens - Two comfortable twin-size beds with luxury linens - Large dining table and seating area with outlets - Kitchen with a full-size fridge, electric hot plates, oven, coffee maker, toaster, kettle, cookware, blender, cooking utensils, & tableware - Tea, coffee, chocolate milk powder, creamers - Olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, spices, herbs - Heating and air conditioning (AC) - Solar fan - High-speed internet/WiFi - Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector - Wood stove ​- Full 3-piece bathroom with sink, large mirror, dry toilets, walk-in rain shower, and hand shower (instructions on how to easily use dry toilets are available in The Dome) - Soap, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash - Bath towels - Hair blow dryer - Iron and ironing board - Board games and books - Portable Bluetooth speaker - Private outdoor dining area - Outdoor lounge chairs - BBQ grill - Private campfire pit ​- Firewood​
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$190
 / 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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