The best camping in Bristol Beach State Park, NY

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Discover Bristol Beach State Park's scenic landscapes and outdoor adventures.  

The best camping in Bristol Beach State Park, NY

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
The Awakening Garden

2. The Awakening Garden

100%
(10)
4.6mi from Bristol Beach State Park · 4 sites · Lodging · Saugerties, NY
This piece of land was developed by my mother, and named after my grandmother: The Awakening Garden is a translation of her name in Chinese. It is tucked in between the Hudson River (8 miles to the East) and the Catskill Mountains (10 miles to the west). It is just 6 miles from the Village of Saugerties and 14 miles to Woodstock, NY. The piece available for camping is 10 acres, but the entire Garden is comprised of 98 acres of rolling land (most of it in a forestry protection plan) bordered on the west by acres of marshland. Many trails criss-cross the Garden and lead one to pretty or interesting vistas including a large mountain laurel patch, ancient graveyard, and different stands of mixed wood forests. There’s lots of wildlife both on land and in the marshes.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$93
 / night
Come swim!

3. Dreamland

94%
(403)
4.8mi from Bristol Beach State Park · 3 sites · Tents · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$38
 / night
Peace And Quiet  in the Catskills

4. Peace And Quiet in the Catskills

98%
(31)
6.1mi from Bristol Beach State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Catskill, NY
Quiet place in the Catskills. Great place for wildlife viewing, Swimming and fishing in Green Lake and select locations and along the Kaaterskill Creek. Sites are located 15 minutes to Catskill Village, 20 minutes from City of Hudson, 25 minutes from Tannersville / Hunter and 30 minutes from Woodstock. There are short trails on our property for walking and miles of hiking trails in the Catskill Park. We have 2 sites. 1 for a tent and one site for a travel trailer less than 24' or a tent. Spaces not within view of each other. Full 7 Gallon water jug provided for washing up and rinsing dishes, no electric but I can top up your batteries for a small fee with my generator. Basically dry camping with fire ring and picnic table and water.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Private Waterfront Camping Oasis

5. Private Waterfront Camping Oasis

100%
(12)
7.3mi from Bristol Beach State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Lake Katrine, NY
This quaint little tent and private deck are nestled among the trees on the banks of the Esopus Creek in a great little neighborhood! A way to get back to nature without truly leaving it all behind. A one of a kind private waterfront escape with hot water and electric outlet! The space: Enjoy a safari style tent on your own private deck overlooking the water located in a private wooded property. Rinse off under the private a-frame shower with warm water and use the NEWLY installed Porta-Potty. This porta-potty is emptied weekly and sanitized before each guest. You won’t have to dig holes but you are camping after all!! Cook a meal on a propane grill. You are welcomed to bring aluminum trays! Charge your phones or laptops should you need to do a little work under the canopy of the trees! (Yes! There is an outlet for small devices!!!) Finally, relax under the stars on a queen sized bed in your screened in tent as the tree frogs lull you to sleep and the fireflies wow your senses with their magical glow! Feel like exploring? Take a short walk through the beautiful neighborhood to see the bison and the magnificent sunsets over the farm. We are located in a great little neighborhood so you never have to go trekking too far into nature and be totally secluded. Yet, you enjoy the half acre waterfront property all to yourself! Plenty of longer trails are easily accessible just a short drive away! If something a little bit further from nature tickles your fancy, jump in your car for a quick ride to Uptown Kingston or Saugerties where you’ll find plenty of great restaurants and shops to visit during your stay. Either way, you're sure to enjoy! End your day with a nice fire under the stars! You have two comfy Adirondack chairs and an enclosed fire pit for your use!! Be sure to bring enough wood as you’ll want to linger around the fire just a little while longer!! During the cooler months, enjoy a small heater that will warm up the tent to a toasty temperature perfect for sleeping! Sweet dreams are sure to follow!  **If staying with us during the months of November through April, please note that the water is turned off to protect the pipes.  We do offer a small electric heater and plenty of warm blankets and comforters.  However, you are staying in a canvas tent so we do suggest you bring extra warm clothing and slippers to wear during your stay!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$185
 / night
Hickory Hollow

6. Hickory Hollow

95%
(74)
7.4mi from Bristol Beach State Park · 2 sites · Tents · Catskill, 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Good spot for a camper

8. Vonsaladfarm

100%
(34)
9.8mi from Bristol Beach State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Kingston, NY
Back in the day this was all farmland. I purchased this property in 2019 and have been busy developing it. I’ve build a chicken coop, installed bee hives and I have Nigerian dwarf goats. There is a farmstand that opens seasonally. The property is about 6 acres of flat land with several great spots to camp. Across the road is our private forest about 40 acres. Great for hiking and Moutainbiking Learn more about this land: We are conveniently located next to the NY Thruway exit 19 & 209 Highway yet super secluded and in nature’s paradise adjacent to the Sawkill River and across a large private Forrest. There is some road noise from Sawkill road & the Thruway dependent on the spot you choose to set up. If your’e tenting you can be in the woods way up in the forest, but most campers prefer our spot near the Sawkill River. I have fire pits, common outdoor furniture & a gasBBQ’s that can be used. There is chickens, bees & goats & 2 guardian life stocks dogs that live with the goats. I also have a small Terrier & a farm cat.  A lot of outdoor activity with bird watching, bunnies, deer & the groundhogs say good night. It’s rural yet only 10 minutes to Kingston uptown and about 20 minutes to Woodstock. About 1 hr from Hunter & Windham Mountain resorts and 45 minutes to Belleayre Ski. We also have a wood fired oven and offer pizza making classes as well as catered meals.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$90
 / night
Hucklebuck Railway Campsites

10. Hucklebuck Railway Campsites

99%
(82)
10mi from Bristol Beach State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Red Hook, NY
Welcome to our secluded forest getaways, nestled alongside the historic Huckleberry Railway bed and offering scenic views of the Roeliff Jansen Kill. This state-stocked trout stream provides an ideal setting for fishing and swimming. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty as you enjoy activities like swimming, tubing, kayaking in the river, and exploring miles of hiking trails. Abundant wildlife and birdlife enhance the tranquility of the surroundings. Our campsites offer proximity to a variety of attractions, including breweries, wineries, pick-your-own farms, farmer's markets, historical sites, restaurants, and shopping. For your convenience, the nearest supermarket is just eight miles away, and a general store is only four miles from the site. Come unwind in nature's embrace and experience the best of both seclusion and nearby amenities.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$119
 / night
High Peak Meadows

11. High Peak Meadows

99%
(43)
10mi from Bristol Beach State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Tannersville, NY
Unplug, unwind, and recharge amongst 250 acres of private property conservation forest at our peaceful waterfall campsite in a secluded 3-acre meadow . Just off the NY Scenic Byway County Route 16, there is tons of space for larger groups. A New York favorite. Greet the morning sun from your tent as it rises above High Peak. Surrounded by the Indian Head Wilderness peaks, you'll enjoy the cool mountain air at night and stunning views all day long. Hike the trails and then dip in the creek when you get back. This campsite is equipped with a single Queen-sized cot with air mattress, woodstove, portable camp toilet, solar heated sun shower. Bring your own bedding/sleeping bags. Drive-up access requires SUV-type clearance for the creek crossings. For easier 2 wheel access check out my other 5-star secluded campsite- Schoharie Creekside Tent. Only a quick drive to Tannersville, Hunter, Windham, Palenville, Woodstock, Phoenicia, Catskill and Saugerties where you can explore the cute town, restaurants, and shops. The site is perched on the banks of the Roaring Kill Stream, perfect for swimming and fishing. There are also lots of flat areas to put additional tents. Great access to the Roaring Kill Trailhead and to the Devil's Path Hiking Trail. If you're looking for some water activities take a short drive to Colgate Lake. Site guidelines Do be careful driving on the dirt jeep track out to the camp. Don't miss swimming in the Roaring Kill Falls. Do leave the campsite just as you found it. "Don't feed the bears." Seriously, do keep a very clean camp. Do ask questions about local activities- swimming holes, hiking, etc. Please take all trash with you, leave no trace!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$114
 / night
Alderneer

12. Alderneer

94%
(18)
10mi from Bristol Beach State Park · 4 sites · Tents · Elka Park, NY
A large field that was once an old potato farm, family owned for generations. There is great heart in this land. with apple trees strewed across the wild flowers. Take a break and enjoy the bird songs and the breeze. Hang a hammock, make a fire and connect with nature once again. This is a primitive camping spot- there is a fire pit, two chairs and a small table provided. Parking is near site. ADD ONS: Fire Wood (locally sourced) $25 Two Person Tent Pre Assembled and ready to go $55 Guided Forest Walk $35 Per Person , a light and easy walk with a history of the area and wild flower/native plant identification Please Message in inbox any inquiries, questions or information about an add on. Pets are allowed please let us know you are bringing them, and keep them on a leash if possible. Pets are your responsibility, and be aware there are wild animals.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$70
 / night
The Catskill And Chill

13. The Catskill And Chill

95%
(38)
11mi from Bristol Beach State Park · 1 site · Lodging · 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 *PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE BOOKING* I want to be transparent with you guys on the property and size of the camper! -The camper is very small only 21ft. The average height clearance is 6'2" so if you are tall this may not be for you. (I'm 5'9" and its comfortable for me) -If you are a bigger person this may feel too tight for you especially in the bathroom area -The bed is a full size some couples may feel that this is to small for them. -A hot shower will last about 15 minutes once it is heated up. -In the summertime there is bugs some may get into the camper. We do treat the area with safe bug spray but it may not fully prevent them. -There are two other tiny houses and a main house on the property. They are far apart but the main house is close. We have a privacy fence that fully blocks the house. So you are still very private but you are not fully secluded. -In case of fire There is a fire blanket, fire extinguisher, and a smoke/carbon monoxide detector inside the camper. The bedroom door is only to be used as an emergency fire exit. (Door is locked from the outside but unlocked from the inside) There is also a water cannon outside for outdoor fires. Please be responsible with all fires! -If you want to cancel you must cancel within 24 hours of booking then I will issue a full refund. Any time after that its a strict policy and no refund will be issued. Thank you for reading this I want to make sure everyone is aware and knows what to expect. Its still an awesome place and people love it! Hope this helps! OTHER AMMENDITIES INCLUDED: Bottled water Wifi Heating Air conditioning Fan and air purifier First Aid kit Fire extinguisher, fire blanket, water cannon Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm Microwave Coffee and Tea Coffee maker/Kettle Fridge Toaster Cooking utensils Games Binoculars (stays on property) Fresh linens provided Toiletries Body wash, shampoo, conditioner Water heater(6 Gallon) Tv (with streaming apps)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$100
 / night
Camp COVID Site 19

17. Camp COVID Site 19

100%
(11)
12mi from Bristol Beach State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Tannersville, NY
Named during the pandemic, "Camp COVID Site 19" was born out of our desire to camp, as we weren't able to go camping anywhere! This camp is the back half of our property, located in the village of Tannersville. Camp is divided from our personal yard by a fence. The camp is also completely fenced in once the driveway gates are closed, allowing your pets to safely be off leash if you wish! A long stone driveway leads to camp, with a flat spot to park your skoolie, motorhome, or vehicle. There is a creek running along the entire back side of our property, outside of the fenced in area, which you can access by walking a few feet though the gates under the Camp COVID sign. We have a new bon fire pit in the center of camp, and fires are allowed as long as there is no burn ban in effect. Firewood is on site, and can be added on for $10 per night. We have 2 water hook ups and one 15 amp electric hook up on site, we just ask that you do not run an A/C unit as it will trip our main breaker. There is a dump station at North South Lake State Park and Campground only minutes away in Haines Falls. Instructions and rules are posted in the bath house which has an on demand hot water shower and a composting toilet. There is a garbage can for your convienece which is located in the shed which must be kept closed to avoid black bears visiting! There is a covered dried in area to the left of the shed. We have a half barrel charcoal grill with a flat top griddle as well as several grill grates. One of the grill grates also fits over the fire pit if you prefer fire cooking! There is an RV on site that will not be occupied during your stay, please do not enter, thank you! Come and stay and say hi!
Pets
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from 
$50
 / night
stone patio

18. The Little Witch Cottage

100%
(88)
12mi from Bristol Beach State Park · 1 site · Lodging · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$125
 / night
Stonecutters Ledge

20. Stonecutters Ledge

96%
(45)
13mi from Bristol Beach State Park · 1 site · Lodging · West Hurley, NY
Stonecutters Ledge located in the Catskill Forest 15 minutes from Kingston and minutes from Woodstock. Plan a visit to the spectacular new Ashokan Rail Trail just 5 minutes away. 18 miles of amazing artist vistas. Home to best hiking in the Catskills. The well equipped, easy to get to campsite boasts, running water, electric, hot tub is out of order, shower house, screen house, picnic table, hammock and horseshoe pits. The essentials are at the site (cooler, camp stove, pots, utensils, lanterns, coffee pot, firewood and more). Interesting trails right outside your door. We added an outdoor hot tub to the site as well as a shower house. Bring your swimsuit! The shower house has a private side for the portable loo as well as a shower side with running water. You may not want to leave, but Onteora Lake in the Bluestone Wild Forest is great for hiking, swimming and boating. Our campsite is located only 5 minutes from Ashokan Reservoir where you can fish and boat. Bring your own camping gear or rent ours, the adventures are endless! If festivals, farm markets and shopping are more your thing, we have it all nearby. Please contact me if you have a specific request. We'll make it happen! The Space: So close to everything! SC is for active campers that want to be close to the action, recreation and culture. A private - outdoor hot tub and shower house right at your campsite!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$125
 / night

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The best camping in Bristol Beach State Park, NY guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure at Bristol Beach State Park, where the land whispers tales of natural beauty and the sea hums with life. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of activities, from serene beachcombing along the pristine shores to exhilarating hikes through diverse ecosystems. Whether you're looking to cast a line into the sparkling waters or simply bask in the sun's warm embrace, Bristol Beach State Park offers a treasure trove of experiences for every kind of explorer.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Bristol Beach State Park is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and the park's flora and fauna are in full splendor. Summer brings warmth perfect for beach activities, though it's also the peak season. Winters are quieter but can be brisk, offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's official website for any seasonal closures or alerts before planning your visit.
  • Ensure you have the necessary permits for fishing or other regulated activities within the park.
  • Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the park's varied terrain and weather conditions.
  • Stay on designated trails to protect the park's delicate ecosystems and your own safety.
  • Facilities such as restrooms and picnic areas are available, but it's wise to bring essentials like water and snacks.
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