Best Camping in and near Catskill State Park

97% (77 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Catskill adventure.

Escape the hustle of NYC with a retreat to the expansive Catskills.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Catskill State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Catskill State Park

One side of the grounds is steep hills and the other side is a creek. Central spots lack privacy.

97%

(16)

Woodland Valley Campground

65 sites · RVs, Tents In Catskill State Park

Loved cooking at Beaverkill campground. They have a contained fire pit with an attached grill. I usually bring my own - but there's no need to here.

83%

(4)

Beaverkill Campground

83 sites · RVs, Tents In Catskill State Park

Thankful I had a tarp because I got stuck in a downpour.

100%

(3)

Bear Spring Mountain Campground

38 sites · RVs, Tents In Catskill State Park

92%

(13)

Kenneth L. Wilson Campground

71 sites · RVs, Tents In Catskill State Park

100%

(13)

Mongaup Pond Campground

154 sites · RVs, Tents In Catskill State Park

This is site 26, on the water - it was great! and kids loved the tadpoles, fish, and chipmunks.

100%

(6)

Little Pond Campground

68 sites · RVs, Tents In Catskill State Park

100%

(5)

Devil's Tombstone Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents In Catskill State Park

100%

(17)

North/South Lake Campground

207 sites · RVs, Tents In Catskill State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Catskill State Park

95%

(11)

Hickory Hollow

2 sites · Tents9 acres · Jefferson Heights, NY

Welcome to Hickory Hollow! Located 7 minutes from the Town of Catskill, 25 minutes from Hudson, and just under the Catskill Mountains, Hickory Hollow is the perfect campsite to take full advantage of the Upper Hudson Valley. There are two campsites you can chose from, both in clearings that make for great star gazing. Camp 1 is deeper into the forest taking about two minutes to walk to from the parking area. Camp site 2 is only a one minute walk but much closer to the farm. If you are coming with a dog, I would recommend staying at Camp site 1, as the farms dogs are very vocal when there are new friends in the area. Each campsite comes with a fire pit, a grate for cooking, and a picnic table. There is parking provided and a composting outhouse. You will need to bring your own firewood, though there is plenty of available kindling. The property is 9 acres and I encourage guests to hike down to the stream and take a walk if they feel comfortable. If not there are so many hiking/swimming options nearby and I am happy to point you in the right direction. This property has a been a life long dream of mine, and is (in my opinion) the most beautiful place on earth. That being said there is a still a lot of work that I am doing since this is a very new endeavor. So please watch yourself if you do decide to stay. The Hollow is beautiful but also very steep, so please be careful while you walk the woods. Pets are welcome, but again, be safe. There is an abundance of wildlife in the Hollow (see if you can spot the porcupine) but that can be very distracting for dogs, so be cautious when letting them off lead. Check out https://www.instagram.com/0hickoryhollow/ for photos of the progress.

The Catskill And Chill

1 site · Lodging8 acres · Catskill, NY

Located In upstate New York is this hidden gem. This camper was old school, now turned new. With a full renovation to give it a Scandinavian look in the front, and a cozy cabin feel in the bedroom. This will give you a unique experience different from the normal camper your used to! Also at your campsite there is a firepit, garden hose,(not available during the winter)and a 8x8 hammock perfect to stargaze in! We are now offering kindling firewood with fire starter and matches. Feel free to reserve your own firewood. $10 OTHER AMMENDITIES INCLUDED Wifi Heating Air conditioning Microwave Coffee and Tea Coffee maker/Kettle Fridge Toaster Cooking utensils Games Fresh linens provided Water heater(6 Gallon) Tv

95%

(365)

Dreamland

3 sites · Tents18 acres · Saugerties, NY

Our woodland property bordering the Esopus creek is a serene and picturesque oasis nestled in the heart of the Mid Hudson Valley. While surrounded by lush forest, it offers easy access to hiking trails that wind through the natural beauty of the area, dinning and civilization (you'll even hear the train from time to time). But our property is more than just a gateway to outdoor adventures; it's a place of tranquility and natural wonder that deserves our utmost respect. With its close proximity to all the fun things the Hudson Valley has to offer, it's the perfect retreat for those seeking a harmonious blend of outdoor exploration and relaxation in a beautiful, pristine forest setting. DreamLand aka: Mugwort Express, boasts three enchanting campsites to choose from, each offering a unique experience. 1 - The Original Site: This campsite is perfect for adventurers who want quick access to the great outdoors. Wake up, jump in the car and hit the road for the great Catskills trails. It's the flattest site and the closets to parking, with under 1 minute walk to your car. 2 - Swing Side: Surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, this campsite immerses you in the heart of our beautiful forest. It's the ideal choice for nature enthusiasts seeking a secluded and serene experience. Also with under 1 minute walk to your car. 3 - The RiverView: Nestled on a ridge some 80 feet above the river's edge, this campsite provides a tranquil escape with the soothing sounds of flowing water. It's our most adventurous site to get to with a good 10 to 15 minute "medium-difficulty" trek to get... A beautiful trek, not a leisurely stroll (Hint: pack light) but well worth the effort! No matter which campsite you choose, our property invites you to connect with nature, relax, and make lasting memories in this stunning woodland retreat.

97%

(674)

Magic Forest Farm

11 sites · RVs, Tents225 acres · Coeymans Hollow, NY

Our slice of paradise consists of 225 acres of forested land nestled in the foothills of the Catskills near Albany. We are a homestead and small campground devoted to the principles of organic farming and self reliance. Modern agriculture and big business are unsustainable, destroying farmland at a accelerating pace. It is important for us to teach the next generation, there is a alternative. We produce much of our own food. We own a sawmill, and have many natural building projects started. We have friendly goats, chickens, ducks, peacocks, donkeys and horses the guests can pet and feed. There are many waterfalls and swimming spots within a short drive. A quick 5 minute drive will get you to one of the best disc golf courses in the north east. For the truly adventurous, Clarksville cave is a short drive away. Visit their website for list of proper gear and rules. We do rent some of the equipment needed.

100%

(24)

Amazing Creekside Camping

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Catskill, NY

An incredibly secluded campsite with several options for groups tucked into the woods, right next to your own private swimming hole, just ten minutes from the highway on a dead-end private road with no other homes from our property onward. Enjoy hiking through the woods, swimming in the creek and the nearby swimming holes, or trying your hand at fishing. There's enough space for 2-3 tents, a picnic table, solar-powered string lights and a rock The area is full of stuff to do with the towns of Catskill and Saugerties minutes away, Hunter Mountain and Phonecia only 30 minutes away.

93%

(152)

Red Fox Meadow Campsite

4 sites · Tents250 acres · New Paltz, NY

Learn more about this land:A grassy meadow nestled between a forested ridge the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, an open access walking and bike path. The Rosendale Rail Trail Cafe is just across the meadow from you and Rosendale trestle bridge is a short bike or walk away.

100%

(14)

The Little Witch Cottage

1 site · Lodging9 acres · Cairo, NY

The Little Witch Cottage is a rustic charming cottage from 1929 with timber framing and Catskill blue stone flooring. It sits in the middle of our yard about 200 feet from our more modern home. We have about 9 acres set back from the road. The cottage has a queen sized bed, dining table, and small kitchenette. The kitchenette has a mini fridge, dishes, and an induction stove top. We recently wired this vintage beauty to run on solar power and has an outhouse with a composting toilet, sink, and heated outdoor shower. Outside the cottage is a small garden, picnic table, fire pit, and chairs. Our land is mostly sloped fields that we are slowly turning into meadows full of native flowers and plants. There are mowed paths through the tall grass. This is perfect glamping spot, a mixture of comfort and nature. We are close to Catskill, NY and surrounded with a mix of beautiful nature and small town fun.

100%

(1)

Locust Grove Waterfall

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Oak Hill, NY

Fall asleep to the sounds of the waterfall on the Catskill creek! Escape the chaos - find peace and solace among the Catskill mountains. Located directly on the Catskill creek in the hamlet of Oak Hill, you'll be sleeping to the sounds of the waterfall just steps from the site. At the foot of the waterfall is your own personal swimming hole. Take advantage of the multiple hammock relaxation stations throughout the property and swimming in the creek. If you're up for a walk, the infamous Yellow Deli is just a mile down the road. We're just a few minutes away from Windham Mountain and various trails if you're the hiking type. Check out our "Must See" book in the tent for suggestions on places to enjoy during your stay. This campsite features a queen size bed for two. Site guidelines Bring loads of extra blankets and warm clothing. Boots are a must. Although the driveway is kept clear, car should ideally be AWD or 4WD depending on weather conditions. Consult your campkeeper. Let your campkeeper know when you are arriving so we can light up entry for you. Cleanup all common spaces when you leave. But, make yourself at home. Video Footage of the site - Instagram - @locustgroveny ***We have added a second full size glamping tent, the same size as the main tent with a queen size bed. This is only available to you when you book this site with a capacity of more than 2 people, it will never be rented to anyone else when you are there.

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(128)

Upper Shire Campsites Hudson Valley

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · Hillsdale, NY

The Upper Shire Private Campsites in the Hudson Valley are on a gorgeous hill with a small pond surrounded by 22 acres of an old horse ranch. Located in Columbia County near the border of Massachusetts and New York. There are currently 5 unique camping areas located here. Each one is special due to its location on the hill. Check out our map and enjoy our spacious yet secluded campsites. This place comes with a relaxed atmosphere and is located near Catamount Ski Resort, Bash Bish Falls, Taconic State Park, Hudson NY, and Great Barrington, MA. If you plan on bringing a pet please be sure to add that fee to your booking under "extras" ($25) If you have additional guest(s) that would like to join you that fee is ($25 a night per person) and you will need to message us about how to arrange that. We have extra easy pop-up two person tents are available to rent ($15 for two nights) you can also find that option under "extras" along with bundles of firewood ($15)

100%

(1)

Rip Van Winkle Mountain View

4 sites · RVs3 acres · Claverack Red Mills, NY

Learn more about this land:Million dollar view of rip van winkle sleeping in the mountains. Future site of my home that I will be building in 2021. It is a very secluded space with privacy.

100%

(23)

Nimble Roots Farm

3 sites · Lodging145 acres · Jefferson Heights, NY

Nestled between the foot of the Catskill Mountains and the ambling Kaaterskill Creek, Nimble Roots Farm is located just minutes outside the town of Catskill, NY. Learn more about sustainable farming practices while exploring the woods, pastures, and creek-side flats of our 145 acre working farm. Located less than 10 minutes from downtown Catskill, 20 minutes to Hudson, and within 30 minutes to Woodstock, Saugerties, Tannersville, Germantown, etc. - there is so much to do, see and explore nearby. It is with gratitude and humility that we acknowledge that we are learning, living, gathering and growing on the ancestral lands of the Muhheaconneok or Mohican people, who are the indigenous peoples of this land. Despite tremendous hardship in being forced from here, today their community resides in Wisconsin and is known as the Stockbridge-Munsee Community. We pay honor and respect to their ancestors past and present as we commit to building a more inclusive and equitable space for all. We commit to amplifying and centering the history and current experience of the Stockbridge Munsee community. We invite and welcome Stockbridge-Munsee community members to this land to hold and engage in spiritual, cultural and social gatherings. We will donate 5% of all net proceeds from land-based enterprises to the construction of their new cultural center. We will work with community farmers and herbalists to plant, tend, save and exchange seed of culturally significant varieties of plants. We will lend our voices in efforts to reclaim ancestral land and to assert the sovereignty of their people.

The Old Catskill Game Farm Zoo

3 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Catskill, NY

Once considered America's greatest zoo, The Catskill Game Farm housed over 2,000 animals with tens of millions of people having visited during its 73 year history. Today you can stay on the abandoned property and explore what remains. All the equipment is already set up on the perfect site. Each campsite is strategically placed in a secluded area to give you a truly unique, private and worry free camping experience.

The best camping near Catskill State Park guide

Overview

About

Just north of the Hudson Valley and not too far from New York City, the Catskills have long been popular with travelers looking to trade the frenzy of the city for some time out in nature. At the heart of the region, Catskill Park (sometimes referred to as the Catskill Forest Preserve) encompasses some 700,000 acres of natural landscape. Here you'll find forests, unspoiled lakes, and miles of hiking trails. The Catskills also offer plenty of camping options, from rustic, primitive campgrounds to well-developed campgrounds with modern facilities.

Notable campgrounds

Best for hikers: Devil's Tombstone Campground offers easy access to a number of excellent hiking trails.
Best for water lovers: North-South Lake Campground has two lakes for swimming, plus summertime boat rentals.
Best for accessible camping: Kenneth L. Wilson Campground features a variety of ADA-accessible facilities, including restrooms, a fishing pier, and a nature trail.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve your campsite through New York State Parks online reservation system or over the phone.
Book ahead, especially if visiting during summer or on weekends. Reservations are available from nine months in advance until 3pm on the day of your visit.
Walk-in camping is not currently offered.
If you can’t find a campsite in Catskill Park during your preferred dates, look into nearby public and private campgrounds as well as Hipcamps.

When to go

The Catskills are popular for outdoor recreation year-round, though summer is the busiest time. Summer activities include boating, fly fishing, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The area gets a good amount of snow in winter, making way for excellent opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even ice fishing. Some of the park’s campgrounds are only open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.

Know before you go

You can learn more about camping, hiking, and trail and road closures by visiting the Catskill Visitor Center in the hamlet of Mount Tremper.
Make sure to buy your firewood locally to prevent the spread of pests and disease. It's against the law to bring untreated firewood into New York state.
Black bears live in the Catskills, and while bear canisters are recommended, they are not required. However, it's still a good idea to hang your trash and food at least 15 feet above the ground or lock it away to prevent attracting animals.