Hill Top Camping Area

- Laurens, NY 13796

Introduction / Overview

For New York residents looking to trade the intensity of city life for the quiet, rejuvenating beauty of the Central Leatherstocking Region, the Hill Top Camping Area at Gilbert Lake State Park in Laurens, NY, represents an exceptional choice. Nestled in the wooded, hilly terrain of the Catskills foothills in Otsego County, this New York State Park campground offers a quintessential upstate camping experience. It provides a peaceful retreat centered around its namesake lake and three ponds, ensuring a perfect balance of tranquility and outdoor recreation.

The Hill Top Camping Area is renowned for its clean environment and friendly staff, making it a welcoming destination for first-time campers and seasoned veterans alike. It offers a variety of ways to stay, from traditional tent sites to spots equipped for larger RVs, catering to a maximum of six people per site. The overall vibe is decidedly family-friendly, featuring organized activities like a “family Olympics” noted by guests as being fun and low-key, promoting community engagement without aggressive competition. While the park maintains a rustic, natural feel, key amenities are available to ensure a comfortable stay, making it a highly suitable and accessible getaway from the metro area.

Location and Accessibility

The Hill Top Camping Area is a distinct section within the much larger Gilbert Lake State Park, located at 18 CCC Rd, Laurens, NY 13796, USA. The park sits comfortably in the foothills of the Catskills, offering a stunning backdrop of forests and rolling hills. Its central Upstate New York location places it conveniently for travel from many parts of the state.

For those traveling from the New York City region, the journey typically involves driving north and then west on major interstates (like the Thruway/I-87 and I-88), providing a scenic road trip that gradually transitions into the serene Otsego County countryside. It is vital to note that while the park provides a secluded feel, it is situated close enough to larger communities like Oneonta and the historical village of Cooperstown (home of the Baseball Hall of Fame), which are perfect for day trips. However, the park advises visitors that GPS navigation to the park is NOT always accurate and recommends following roadside signs from main roadways to the park entrance on County Route 12.

Services Offered

As a well-maintained New York State Park facility, Hill Top Camping Area provides essential services and diverse accommodation options for a complete outdoor stay.

• Campsite & Accommodation Options: The park offers 135 campsites, including designated sections like Hilltop (Sites 1-57) and Deer Run. These accommodate both tents and RVs (up to 50 feet max length). A mix of electric-only sites (30/50 Amp) and non-electric sites are available.
• Rental Units: In addition to campsites, 33 cabins/cottages are available for rent, providing modern conveniences like full kitchens, indoor plumbing, and fireplaces. Note that cabins typically require a 7 or 14-night minimum stay.
• Sanitary Facilities: The park provides multiple restrooms and hot showers located within the campground area. A dump station for RVs is available, often located in the Deer Run loop.
• Utilities: Drinking water spigots are centrally located throughout the camping loops. The use of generators is permitted during specific morning and evening hours (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM).
• Pet Policy: The campground is pet-friendly, allowing a maximum of two pets per site. Current proof of rabies inoculation is required, and pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
• Additional Rentals: Shelter rentals are available for group gatherings, and the park office has firewood for sale.

Features / Highlights

The primary draw of Hill Top Camping Area is the wealth of natural resources and recreational facilities offered within Gilbert Lake State Park's 1,500 acres.

• Lake and Ponds: The park features the beautiful Gilbert Lake and three smaller ponds. The lake is noted for its clear water, providing excellent opportunities for fishing (trout, bass) and non-motorized boating.
• Swimming Beach and Boat Rentals: A supervised swimming beach is open during the summer season, complete with lifeguards. Boat rentals—including kayaks, double kayaks, and paddleboards—are available when lifeguards are on duty.
• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts over 12 miles of interconnected trails winding through wooded, hilly terrain, perfect for hiking and biking in the warmer months. These trails transition to opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.
• Recreational Facilities: A disc golf course, playgrounds, a softball field, and horseshoe pits are all available within the park, catering to a range of family interests.
• Unique Programming: Guests highlight organized activities such as the "family Olympics," which foster a communal, fun atmosphere among campers.
• CCC Museum: The park hosts a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Exhibit and Nature Center, offering a look into the region's history and natural environment.

Contact Information

To plan your outdoor escape and make reservations at Hill Top Camping Area, use the following contact details for Gilbert Lake State Park:

Address: 18 CCC Rd, Laurens, NY 13796, USA

Phone: (607) 432-2114

Reservations: Reservations for sites and cabins are managed through the New York State Parks reservation system. It's best practice to book well in advance, especially for summer weekends.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For New York locals, the Hill Top Camping Area is more than just a place to pitch a tent—it’s an affordable and convenient destination to disconnect and fully embrace the natural world of Upstate New York. Situated away from the dense population centers, it offers clean facilities and a rare opportunity for uncrowded nature immersion, a precious commodity for city dwellers. While some sites may offer limited natural screening, making privacy a relative challenge, the friendly community atmosphere and the abundance of outdoor activities more than compensate.

From the refreshing waters of Gilbert Lake to the 12 miles of wooded trails, the park is an ideal setting for families to be active and engaged. The combination of clean, affordable state park camping, accessible amenities (including showers and electric hookups), and proximity to attractions like Cooperstown makes it an invaluable regional asset. It is a fantastic option for New Yorkers seeking a straightforward, fun, and relaxing return to nature, all within a day's drive.

Hill Top Camping Area

Laurens, NY 13796, USA