A lake with clear, blue-green water and distant tree-covered hills.
Fee applies

Swim in the Otsego Lake

Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail

Swim in the clear waters of the Otsego Lake, the northernmost point of the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail. Public beaches are available within Glimmerglass State Park.

Swim in the Headwaters of the Chesapeake Go for a swim in the clear waters of the Otsego Lake, the northernmost point of the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail. These waters are where much of the water in the Chesapeake Bay begins! As the headwaters of the Susquehanna River, the Otsego Lake is the origin point of the Chesapeake Bay and its vast watershed. Swimming is a wonderful way to enjoy the lake, with crystal clear waters, mountain views, and fresh mountain-fed water. Public beaches are available within Glimmerglass State Park, a New York State Park. Head to the park and pay the entrance fee. Park in the beach area. Swimming is included in your entrance fee. After applying sunscreen, jump into the lake's waters. Take a lap and look around to enjoy the clear water and mountain views. While You're There... After you've taken a dip at the park's swimming beach, check out the other activities the park has to offer, including... Trails Campgrounds Picnic pavilions Playground Boat launch Fishing pier Information for Visitors Address: 1527 County Highway 31 Cooperstown, NY 13326 Phone number: (607) 547-8662 More information and camping reservations: Glimmerglass State Park (ny.gov)

Tags

Freshwater SwimmingLakesNative American HeritageRiver and RiparianScenic ViewsTrailsWater TrailsWatershedsHeadwatersCaptain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic TrailNew York

Visitor Photos

No visitor photos yet

Details

Fees

Vehicle Entrance Fee Cars: $7 weekends 5/25 to 6/16 Cars: $7 daily 6/17 through Labor Day Non-Commercial Bus Fee: $35 Commercial Bus Fee: $75 Seasonal Bus Permit: $75

Fees Apply

Yes

Seasons

Spring, Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility

According to Glimmerglass State Park the swimming beach is "Accessible."

Pets

Yes — Pet Policy (per Glimmerglass State Park): "A maximum of two pets are allowed in campsites and day use areas unless prohibited by sign or directive. Pets are to be supervised at all times and either be crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length. Proof of rabies inoculation shall be produced if requested by staff. Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals)."

Reservations

No

Location

Glimmerglass State Park

View on NPS.govBack to Captain John Smith Chesapeake

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!