Colden Lakes Resort

Colden Lakes Resort, located at 9504 Heath Rd in Colden, New York, presents a complex picture for potential visitors, blending moments of exceptional customer care with significant operational concerns. Primarily functioning as an RV park and campground, it caters to both transient guests and a large community of seasonal residents. The facility boasts a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, laundry facilities, a playground, and opportunities for fishing and kayaking, positioning itself as a destination for a complete family vacation. However, experiences vary dramatically, seemingly dependent on the nature of the visit and interactions with the management.

The Guest Experience: A Tale of Two Realities

On one hand, many guests report overwhelmingly positive interactions, particularly highlighting the staff's kindness and willingness to go above and beyond. One visitor, Stephanie, is repeatedly praised for her accommodating and caring nature. In a standout instance, the staff assisted a family who had their vehicle break down before they even arrived, towing their camper to the site and helping them arrange long-term storage. This level of service is extraordinary and speaks to a deep-seated culture of hospitality that has left a lasting positive impression on many. The community of seasonal residents is also described as warm and welcoming, contributing to a friendly and pleasant atmosphere throughout the park.

Conversely, a number of troubling reports have emerged, specifically concerning the new ownership which, according to news reports, took over in late 2023. Several long-time visitors and prospective seasonal campers have documented negative experiences that stand in stark contrast to the praise. One potential customer reported being rudely dismissed over the phone when attempting to schedule a tour for a seasonal spot, with the owner allegedly hanging up on them. Another returning guest detailed a frustrating booking issue where their confirmed reservation for a specific type of site was not honored upon arrival. They were allegedly forced into an unsuitable location after their promised spot was given to someone else and were subsequently denied a refund. These accounts suggest a significant inconsistency in customer service, particularly in handling administrative tasks and potential new long-term clients.

Key Pros and Cons Voiced by Visitors

• Pro: Exceptional staff assistance in emergencies, demonstrating a commitment to guest welfare beyond typical expectations.
• Pro: A clean, scenic, and well-maintained property with a friendly community atmosphere.
• Con: Serious allegations of rude behavior and poor communication from new management, especially regarding seasonal inquiries and reservations.
• Con: Inflexibility with booking issues, including reported refusal to provide refunds for unresolved problems.

Navigating to the Resort: A Critical Warning for RV Owners

A significant point of caution for anyone planning a trip to Colden Lakes Resort, especially those with large Class A motorhomes or heavy trailers, involves the physical journey to the campground. One visitor shared a harrowing experience with the route suggested by their RV's GPS, which led them up an extremely steep 11% grade. Their 31-foot vehicle struggled to make the ascent, creating a stressful and potentially dangerous situation. This is not a fault of the resort itself, but it is a critical piece of information for effective holiday planning. Fortunately, the staff is aware of this issue and was able to provide a safer, alternative route for the guest's departure. It is strongly recommended that all incoming visitors, particularly those with large rigs, disregard their GPS as they get close and instead call the resort office directly to receive the safest and most accessible driving directions. Another review confirms that using directions via Holland Glenwood Road offers a flatter approach.

Amenities, Connectivity, and Site Logistics

Colden Lakes Resort offers a solid list of on-site amenities to enhance the stay. These include full hook-up sites (30 and 50 amp), a dump station, bathrooms, showers, laundry, and propane services. The pool is a popular feature, and the grounds include various recreational spaces. However, there are some notable drawbacks in modern necessities. A significant complaint is that Wi-Fi is not a complimentary service and must be paid for. Compounding this issue is the poor cellular data reception in the area for some carriers, including T-Mobile and Verizon, which can have as few as two bars of service. This lack of reliable connectivity could be a major issue for guests who need to work remotely or simply wish to stay connected during their travels.

The layout and condition of the transient sites have also drawn some criticism. One review from a holiday weekend noted that sites were narrow, with hook-ups positioned awkwardly close to neighboring spots, requiring one camper's utilities to be located within the adjacent site. The same review mentioned overgrown grass and a picnic table placed inconveniently in the middle of the parking area, suggesting that site maintenance can be inconsistent, especially during busy periods. While the resort is listed with a travel agency classification, its core business is clearly focused on lodging and camping, and these logistical details are crucial for a positive experience.

Final Considerations for Potential Campers

Colden Lakes Resort is a property with undeniable potential, set in a beautiful location and supported by instances of truly remarkable staff hospitality. For travelers with smaller RVs who prioritize a friendly community and are prepared for potential connectivity issues, it can be a delightful destination. However, the serious complaints regarding the new management's handling of reservations and customer inquiries cannot be ignored. Those planning complex travel arrangements or considering a long-term seasonal camping commitment should proceed with caution. It is advisable to get all agreements and site confirmations in writing and to clarify the cancellation and refund policy before making a financial commitment. By weighing the glowing reviews of on-the-ground helpfulness against the significant concerns about administrative professionalism, visitors can make a more informed decision about whether Colden Lakes Resort is the right choice for their next trip.