Even though Hartwick Highlands Campground is closed for the winter season, the holidays are the perfect time to bring a little camping magic into your home. Families who spend their summers camping around Cooperstown often look for ways to keep the traditions alive when the weather turns cold — and December is full of opportunities to do just that.
Whether you’re dreaming of summer road trips, planning next year’s baseball tournaments, or simply missing nights around the campfire, here are fun and meaningful ways to infuse the spirit of camping into your family’s holiday celebrations.
1. Make Campfire-Inspired Holiday Treats
You don’t need a fire ring to enjoy classic camping flavors! Try these cozy winter treats inspired by your favorite summer nights:
- Hot cocoa with toasted marshmallows — Toast marshmallows over your stovetop for an authentic flavor.
- Indoor s’mores — Use the oven or air fryer to melt chocolate and marshmallow on graham crackers.
- Cinnamon-spiced campfire popcorn — A fun movie-night snack reminiscent of camp evenings.
Kids will love re-creating the simple joys they associate with camping at Hartwick Highlands.
2. Create a Camping-Themed Ornament
Holiday crafts are a great way to build annual traditions. Try making:
- Mini tent or camper ornaments
- Wood-slice ornaments with painted trees or campfires
- Photo ornaments featuring pictures from summers at Hartwick Highlands
These make wonderful keepsakes — and each year, your tree becomes a reflection of the memories you’ve made in Cooperstown.
3. Host a “Camping Night” at Home
When the weather outside is frightful, bring camping indoors! Set up a cozy area with blankets, lanterns, sleeping bags, and a pretend campfire (LED candles work perfectly). You can:
- Read stories by flashlight
- Play camp-themed games
- Tell favorite memories from summers past
- Share hopes for next year’s adventures
This is especially fun for families with younger children — and it keeps the camping excitement going all year long.
4. Take a Holiday Lights Drive Through Cooperstown
While Hartwick Highlands may be quiet in December, Cooperstown shines bright with festive lights and seasonal charm. Take an evening drive through:
- Main Street Cooperstown — Decorated storefronts make for a beautiful stroll.
- Local holiday displays — Check the Cooperstown tourism website for updates on lights and events.
It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the town in a completely different season.
5. Start a New Yearly Tradition: Planning Next Year’s Camping Trip
December is a great time to look ahead to the next summer. Families who stay at Hartwick Highlands often return year after year — and planning early ensures everyone gets the site or rental they prefer.
Gather your family and talk about:
- Your favorite campsite or cabin from past seasons
- What you want to explore next year
- Dates for baseball tournaments or reunions
- New activities or local attractions you want to try
Planning early helps keep the excitement going and builds anticipation for another season of memories.
6. Give Camping-Themed Gifts
If your family loves camping, holiday shopping is the perfect chance to upgrade or replace gear. Popular ideas include:
- New lanterns or headlamps
- Camping chairs or hammocks
- Outdoor games for campgrounds
- Personalized mugs or enamelware
These make great stocking stuffers and help you gear up for next summer at Hartwick Highlands.
Bring the Spirit of Camping Into the Holidays
Even during the coldest months, the feeling of camping doesn’t have to fade. With cozy traditions, creative crafts, and the joy of planning ahead, your family can stay connected to the outdoors all year long.
We can’t wait to welcome you back to Hartwick Highlands Campground when the season begins again!
