RV Rental Gilbert Lake State Park, NY

Between Gilbert Lake plus the park’s three ponds, there’s plenty of water recreation to be enjoyed here. The warm season is an excellent time to lounge on the beach, take a refreshing dip, or try your luck at fishing. The park also offers boat rentals if that’s more your style. Pick up a kayak or rowboat and head just a short distance from the parking area where you’ll be able to launch a boat into the water (as long as it is non-motorized).

Don’t forget to pack your walking shoes and bicycles in your travel trailer because no Gilbert Lake State Park RV camping trip is complete without a hike or bike ride. There are more than 12 miles of interconnecting trails taking you around the wooded, hilly terrain. The park is a popular destination for wintertime activities as well, with opportunities to explore the landscape by snowmobiling, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing.

There’s no shortage of ways to stay active here. Gilbert Lake State Park includes a disc golf course, softball field, and basketball court to keep you on your toes. There’s even a playground and recreation programs to entertain the kiddos. When hunger strikes, head over to the park’s food concession stand for snacks, and relax at one of the pavilions and picnic tables.

Camping with an RV at Gilbert Lake State Park is easy and comfortable. The campground offers accessible cabins and campsites with electric hookups. Amenities include hot showers as well as comfort and dump stations. There is also a first aid station and firewood available, and you’ll find water centrally located at the park.

Gilbert Lake State Park is open year-round, but the prime time to park your Otsego camper rental for an overnight stay is May through October. There’s a minimum of one night required for reservations, which can be made one day ahead of arrival and up to nine months in advance during the booking season (which is If you’re looking to reserve a site for just one night you can do so online or by phone, as long as you book it within three days of your arrival.

Don’t forget your canine companions! A maximum of two pets are permitted at Gilbert Lake State Park as long as dogs are always kept on a leash no longer than six feet.

Before you continue your RV rental vacation in Otsego County, swing by the park’s nature center and browse the New York State Civilian Conservation Corps Museum. The unique museum features photographs, memorabilia, printed material, and exhibits highlighting the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps at Gilbert Lake, as well as other parks in New York and throughout the United States.

Sports fanatics will definitely want to check out the National Baseball Hall of Fame, the famous American history museum located nearby the park in Cooperstown, which is considered the birthplace of baseball and is a great place to attend sports events and special concerts. When you’re in this area, you might also want to visit the Farmers Museum, Hanford Mills Museum, and Howe Caverns.

Nature enthusiasts will discover many other state parks in close proximity to Gilbert Lake State Park. When you’re ready for a change of pace, you’ll find a variety of urban activities within just 10 miles of Gilbert Lake. If you don’t want to stray too far afield, spend some time soaking up the small-town environment of New Lisbon or cruise over to the neighboring city of Oneonta. You’ll be able to enjoy diverse dining options, local art, cultural institutions, and more here, which is an easy road trip away from other cities including Albany, Binghamton, and Utica.