Lake on the west coast

Otsego Lake Vacation Rentals

Otsego Lake

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Otsego Lake
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Why Rent On Otsego Lake

Otsego Lake, a serene and picturesque body of water in Cooperstown, New York, stretches nine miles in length and a mile in width, its crystal-clear waters inviting adventurers and tranquility seekers alike. This spring-fed lake, with depths reaching nearly 167 feet, offers a myriad of activities: swimming, fishing, boating, water skiing, and kayaking. For a leisurely experience, take a ride on the Glimmerglass Queen, a narrated tour that cruises the lake and highlights landmarks such as King Fish Tower and the Fenimore Art Museum.

Surrounded by historic sites, the lake is a hub for cultural and outdoor enthusiasts. Nearby, the Fenimore Art Museum showcases American art and James Fenimore Cooper memorabilia within a stunning neo-Georgian mansion. Glimmerglass State Park, with its sandy beaches and Hyde Hall mansion, provides ample opportunities for exploration. Families can enjoy the living history at the Farmers’ Museum, while baseball fans can visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown. Whether you seek adventure, cultural enrichment, or peaceful relaxation, Otsego Lake and its surroundings offer a rich and diverse travel experience.

Best time to go
Visit Otsego Lake from late June to early September, when sun-drenched days invite you to sail along turquoise waters. Experience the tranquility away from summer crowds, with fishing excursions and the enchanting Glimmerglass Festival illuminating your evenings.
Water Quality
Otsego Lake's waters are crystal-clear with a deep blue hue, allowing for excellent visibility of the lakebed. The lake's clarity has improved since the introduction of zebra mussels, which filter-feed and enhance water transparency.
Surface area (mi)
10.17
Max depth (ft)
167.32
Elevation (ft)
1633.86
Shoreline length (mi)
20.32

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Otsego Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, it is not safe to swim in Otsego Lake when there are harmful algae or cyanobacteria present. These blooms can produce toxins like microcystin, which have been found at high concentrations in the lake, posing health risks to swimmers.

  • Otsego Lake is a popular destination because of its crystal clear water and various recreational activities. It offers swimming, fishing, boating, water skiing, and kayaking. The lake is also known for its scenic tours on the Glimmerglass Queen and its proximity to attractions like Glimmerglass State Park and the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

  • You can catch various species of fish in Otsego Lake, New York, including Lake Trout, Walleye, Yellow Perch, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Rock Bass, and several others like Chain Pickerel, Cisco, and Rainbow Smelt. The lake also supports populations of Brown Bullhead, Black Crappie, and Bluegill. It is known for its exceptional smallmouth bass fishery.

  • The beach at Otsego Lake State Park is best for families. It has a clean, sandy beach with shallow, clear water, making it ideal for young children. The area also includes picnic tables, modern restrooms, and paved trails.

  • Towns near Otsego Lake include Cooperstown, Cherry Valley, Fly Creek, and Milford. Cooperstown is known for its big attractions, while Cherry Valley has a unique art scene. Fly Creek offers historic sites like the Fly Creek Methodist Church and Fly Creek Grange No. 844.