100% (109) • 19 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Athens
Big Indian Wilderness Paradise
1. Big Indian Wilderness Paradise
99%
(87)
35mi from Athens · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
This woodland meadow in just yards from the crystal clear Esopus Creek. Wonderful for swimming or fishing or just enjoying the quiet of a country escape. Close to the charming country town of Phoenicia with charming restaurants and a short drive to Woodstock.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$75
/ night
High Peak Meadows
2. High Peak Meadows
99%
(43)
17mi from Athens · 2 sites · Lodging
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
Toilets
Showers
from
$114
/ night
Catskill State Park
3. Catskill State Park
97%
(83)
708 sites · Catskill, New York
Escape the hustle of NYC with a retreat to the expansive Catskills.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Taghkanic State Park
4. Lake Taghkanic State Park
100%
(4)
86 sites · Copake Lake, New York
Lake Taghkanic is a great place for both summer and winter stays, with plenty of tent campsites as well as cabins and cottages, and a variety of activities to do year round. For winter folks, there's cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails, as well as ice skating and ice fishing areas, and plenty of fire pits to warm those chilly bones. For summer lovin', there are two beaches, so if someone kicks sand in your potato salad (accidentally, of course), you can just go to another beach and pretend like it never happened. The only sleeping quarters that are on the water are some of the cottages in the West End Cottage Area, so if you're planning on playing Beach Party Bingo, plan accordingly or be willing to walk a bit from your tent or cabin.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Beartown State Forest
5. Beartown State Forest
100%
(4)
12 sites · Housatonic, Massachusetts
Discover the natural allure of Beartown State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pittsfield State Forest
6. Pittsfield State Forest
100%
(2)
39 sites · Pittsfield, Massachusetts
Discover the natural splendor of Pittsfield State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mills Norrie State Park
7. Mills Norrie State Park
90%
(5)
55 sites · Staatsburg, New York
At Mills Norrie State Park, there’s so much to do! Drive in, boat in, hike in, the choice is yours. Comprised of more that 1,000 acres in the Taconic Region of New York, you can shop, dine, barbeque, or camp out under the stars or reserve a cabin for a fancy affair. When you visit Mills Norrie State Park, there are many sites not to be missed. Take a hike (or snowshoe!) to view the Hudson River or kayak through its waters. In fact, come in summer and winter and do them both. We’ll see you there!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cherry Plain State Park
8. Cherry Plain State Park
100%
(1)
29 sites · Averill Park, New York
Hike the 6.3-mile Cherry Plain State Park Loop trail in snow or sun, and bring your leashed buddy.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Housatonic Meadows State Park
9. Housatonic Meadows State Park
100%
(1)
61 sites · Sharon, Connecticut
The term “back to nature” is taken very seriously at Housatonic Meadows State Park. You thought an afternoon in the park was reconnecting with Mother Nature? Think again. For a real taste of unabated wilderness try visiting this place. One night under the stars on the banks of the Housatonic River will have you howling at the moon and starting fires without those sissy matches.Tucked away in the rugged hills of the northwestern uplands, a trip here will carry you satisfyingly far from any major metropolitan area. No four-lane highways and bumper-to-bumper traffic—this is the land of deer-crossing signs and single-lane bridges. You can fish the river, roam miles of trails and spend the night just steps away from both. No matter what time you visit, nature welcomes you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Macedonia Brook State Park
10. Macedonia Brook State Park
100%
(3)
51 sites · Connecticut
A trip to Macedonia Brook State Park is basically what the word “splendid” was invented for—blissfully scenic and impossibly pleasurable. Hiking down the Blue Trail, you can’t help but feel good about the world. Wipe that smile off your face, we dare you. It’s okay, we know you can’t.The Blue Trail, which is by far the main area attraction, meanders over Cobble Mountain and several other peaks, crossing a handful of babbling springs and streams. The views of the Catskills and Taconics are downright gorgeous. And don’t even get us started on fall colors. So go have yourself a splendid time at Macedonia Brook.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Tolland State Forest
11. Tolland State Forest
100%
(7)
88 sites · Blandford, Massachusetts
Discover the natural allure of Tolland State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Waramaug State Park
12. Lake Waramaug State Park
76 sites · New Preston, Connecticut
If there was a beauty pageant for all the lakes in Connecticut, Lake Waramaug wins, hands down. It’s not even a competition. Scenically, Lake Waramaug State Park is unrivaled. Being caught without a camera here is like showing up to potluck without a dish. You just don’t do it.When the fall foliage starts to peak, whoa. The sight of the vivid colors reflected in the unrippled lake surface is more beautiful than anything you’ve ever seen. Don’t let your significant other hear you say that, though. If you listen closely, you can hear the clicking shutters of a thousand photographers.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
100% (109) • 19 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Athens
Big Indian Wilderness Paradise
1. Big Indian Wilderness Paradise
99%
(87)
35mi from Athens · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
This woodland meadow in just yards from the crystal clear Esopus Creek. Wonderful for swimming or fishing or just enjoying the quiet of a country escape. Close to the charming country town of Phoenicia with charming restaurants and a short drive to Woodstock.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$75
/ night
High Peak Meadows
2. High Peak Meadows
99%
(43)
17mi from Athens · 2 sites · Lodging
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
Toilets
Showers
from
$114
/ night
Catskill State Park
3. Catskill State Park
97%
(83)
708 sites · Catskill, New York
Escape the hustle of NYC with a retreat to the expansive Catskills.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Taghkanic State Park
4. Lake Taghkanic State Park
100%
(4)
86 sites · Copake Lake, New York
Lake Taghkanic is a great place for both summer and winter stays, with plenty of tent campsites as well as cabins and cottages, and a variety of activities to do year round. For winter folks, there's cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails, as well as ice skating and ice fishing areas, and plenty of fire pits to warm those chilly bones. For summer lovin', there are two beaches, so if someone kicks sand in your potato salad (accidentally, of course), you can just go to another beach and pretend like it never happened. The only sleeping quarters that are on the water are some of the cottages in the West End Cottage Area, so if you're planning on playing Beach Party Bingo, plan accordingly or be willing to walk a bit from your tent or cabin.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Beartown State Forest
5. Beartown State Forest
100%
(4)
12 sites · Housatonic, Massachusetts
Discover the natural allure of Beartown State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pittsfield State Forest
6. Pittsfield State Forest
100%
(2)
39 sites · Pittsfield, Massachusetts
Discover the natural splendor of Pittsfield State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mills Norrie State Park
7. Mills Norrie State Park
90%
(5)
55 sites · Staatsburg, New York
At Mills Norrie State Park, there’s so much to do! Drive in, boat in, hike in, the choice is yours. Comprised of more that 1,000 acres in the Taconic Region of New York, you can shop, dine, barbeque, or camp out under the stars or reserve a cabin for a fancy affair. When you visit Mills Norrie State Park, there are many sites not to be missed. Take a hike (or snowshoe!) to view the Hudson River or kayak through its waters. In fact, come in summer and winter and do them both. We’ll see you there!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cherry Plain State Park
8. Cherry Plain State Park
100%
(1)
29 sites · Averill Park, New York
Hike the 6.3-mile Cherry Plain State Park Loop trail in snow or sun, and bring your leashed buddy.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Housatonic Meadows State Park
9. Housatonic Meadows State Park
100%
(1)
61 sites · Sharon, Connecticut
The term “back to nature” is taken very seriously at Housatonic Meadows State Park. You thought an afternoon in the park was reconnecting with Mother Nature? Think again. For a real taste of unabated wilderness try visiting this place. One night under the stars on the banks of the Housatonic River will have you howling at the moon and starting fires without those sissy matches.Tucked away in the rugged hills of the northwestern uplands, a trip here will carry you satisfyingly far from any major metropolitan area. No four-lane highways and bumper-to-bumper traffic—this is the land of deer-crossing signs and single-lane bridges. You can fish the river, roam miles of trails and spend the night just steps away from both. No matter what time you visit, nature welcomes you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Macedonia Brook State Park
10. Macedonia Brook State Park
100%
(3)
51 sites · Connecticut
A trip to Macedonia Brook State Park is basically what the word “splendid” was invented for—blissfully scenic and impossibly pleasurable. Hiking down the Blue Trail, you can’t help but feel good about the world. Wipe that smile off your face, we dare you. It’s okay, we know you can’t.The Blue Trail, which is by far the main area attraction, meanders over Cobble Mountain and several other peaks, crossing a handful of babbling springs and streams. The views of the Catskills and Taconics are downright gorgeous. And don’t even get us started on fall colors. So go have yourself a splendid time at Macedonia Brook.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Tolland State Forest
11. Tolland State Forest
100%
(7)
88 sites · Blandford, Massachusetts
Discover the natural allure of Tolland State Forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Waramaug State Park
12. Lake Waramaug State Park
76 sites · New Preston, Connecticut
If there was a beauty pageant for all the lakes in Connecticut, Lake Waramaug wins, hands down. It’s not even a competition. Scenically, Lake Waramaug State Park is unrivaled. Being caught without a camera here is like showing up to potluck without a dish. You just don’t do it.When the fall foliage starts to peak, whoa. The sight of the vivid colors reflected in the unrippled lake surface is more beautiful than anything you’ve ever seen. Don’t let your significant other hear you say that, though. If you listen closely, you can hear the clicking shutters of a thousand photographers.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
N
Nicole
October 2025
With kids
We had a great weekend at John and AC’s spot! Great set up - our kids loves running around, playing in the stream, roasting marshmallows. Overall great experience!
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E
Ertis
September 2025
Group trip
We had a wonderful experience at this campsite! The property is beautiful, peaceful, and well cared for, making it the perfect place to relax and celebrate special moments. The host is incredibly attentive and thoughtful, providing clear guidance to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable stay while also respecting the land.
The campsite itself is well maintained, with great amenities that make the stay comfortable while still giving you that true outdoor experience. Our group especially appreciated the spacious setup and the chance to enjoy nature together in such a welcoming environment.
We’re grateful for the opportunity to stay here and look forward to returning. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a clean, organized, and enjoyable camping spot!
See moreR
Robert
August 2025
With kids
This was our first time camping at this site and we absolutely loved it. The location wonderful - the campsite sits in a large open field and is a very short hike away from a large creek. Our kids had a blast exploring the creek and surrounding area. The site was very well maintained, organized and clean. The host was very responsive and helpful and gave us a great tour of the site upon our arrival. We loved our visit here!!
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C
Corina
August 2025
With kids
Ahhhhh we are already missing this beautiful campsite! My husband, 1 year old, almost 3 year old and I had the most magical weekend. This site is private yet so open! The meadow, the little trails and the walk to the creek just made our trip so special. AC warmly welcomed us in and John warmly helped us check out - thank you both so much!! We are already plotting to come back with friends x
See moreK
Kate
August 2025
With kids
There are so many positives about the Scoharie Creekside site! Our family of 4 (2 adults, 2 kids, 1 dog) had a wonderful weekend relaxing, exploring the creek and Roaring Kill Waterfall, and watching our dog enjoy the off leash splendor of the very large and private camp site! During our stay, Max was helpful and polite to us. We appreciated he was close by if we needed something.
I don't want to necessarily give a bad review, we had a wonderful time and it's a beautiful location/set up. However, some things that bothered us - 1) At the time of booking, we were surprised with an extra $100 in charges which, after I inquired, turned out to be $25/person/night for "extra person" fees (for anything more than 2 people). There was nothing at all in the listing stating this. After inquiry, the owner adjusted the listing, but did not refund us the charge. I simply can't imagine the extravagance of such a charge if a group of substantial size decides to reserve this site (which is set up beautifully with a ton of flat space for extra tents). With a group of 10 people you'd be paying $200 extra per night?!?! Feels like price gouging to me. 2) The cost of the fire wood is extravagant, and you have no choice but to use the owner's wood. He did allow a discount for us which we appreciated but again, $15 for a plastic tote of wood which last for a 1-2 hour fire is crazy. Ultimately, though we had a great time, we won't return because the cost is too much for what it is.
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Andrew AJ
August 2025
With kids
Incredible, private, picturesque place to camp with your own meadow to yourself, not to mention all the basics covered for you and a very sweet and helpful host! We stayed in the smaller / less expensive site but are interested in coming back and renting out the larger meadow, maybe with a couple friends.
See moreJ
James
August 2025
With kids
A dream weekend for 6 kids and 5 adults. Encircled by trees. The perfect Creek for splashing and playing and a big field for games. What more could you ask for? John and AC prepped the site with everything we needed. We will definitely be back
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C
Cathy
August 2025
With pets
We had a wonderful experience staying at Schoharie Creekside Tent at High Meadow for a few days. We found it to be a lovely spot, peaceful and quiet, yet our hosts were nearby and responsive if we needed anything. The tent was in good condition and we were grateful for the woodstove on the chilly nights. We enjoyed the hammock located in a nice shady grove of pine trees, and We took advantage of the inner tubes our hosts supplied to float on the creek behind the campsite. Highly recommend!! 😁
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Chris
August 2025
With kids
We stayed at Schoharie Creek Campsite in August 2025 and our group of seven dads and their kids (8-12 years old) had a perfect camp weekend.
The location is fantastic near Tannersville and its restaurants/groceries.
The camp site is really special. Very secluded, beautiful views and the Schoharie Creek running through it is a treasure. In August the creek is pretty low but there is a nice deep area about 100 yards long right next to the camp site that is perfect for floating in a tube, exploring and enjoying the afternoon.
Being close to other attractions and hiking trails in the area made it easy to leave camp, do some hikes, get a nice lunch at the Hunter Mountain Brewery, reload on some groceries in town and return to camp.
The hosts were excellent and take great care of their beautiful property.
We loved it and look forward to our next trip.
See moreL
Laurie
July 2025
With kids
We had a wonderful time at big Indian wilderness! The amenities provided made camping with two young kids very easy, and they loved playing in the creek! It was quiet, clean and beautiful. Our family had an amazing time and we explored the surrounding area and had many adventure. We would definitely come here again!
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P
Peter
July 2025
With pets
The site is beautifully isolated and very nicely landscaped included paths cut through the forest to the creek. Everything is well thought out and very nicely presented. We had a great experience.
Interesting experiment in being off grid. No cell. No wifi. Just the peace.
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S
Scott
July 2025
With kids
The entire lot was well maintained. Tent was immaculate and the owners are extremely friendly and accommodating. Made our first family camping trip amazing! Perfect little spot for people with kids, and a wife that doesn't want the full-on camping experience but a little comfort included. We will be returning!
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A
Ashley
June 2025
With kids
What a great little set up! John was super helpful before arrival, the tent was well outfitted with everything we could need and he was sure to check in throughout our time. It was our first camping trip as New Yorkers and I would def return!
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Laura
June 2025
With kids
The property is beautiful. Mark was helpful and had everything and more ready to go for us upon arrival. The water was refreshing and the tubes to float with were much appreciated! Everything was as listed/pictured and very clean. This time of year is tick season - we did encounter ticks but came prepared, I wouldn’t let it deter you. I’d highly recommend this spot to anyone, it’s worth a visit. Very toddler friendly too, just noting for others that the water at the one site was a bit of a steeper narrow path towards the water, but still very accessible! Thank you for sharing this spot with us to enjoy!
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Rory
June 2025
Group trip
We had an amazing time staying at John and AC’s campsite. It was incredibly spacious with amazing views of the surrounding Catskills. Having a beautiful creek to wade around and cool off in was a fantastic feature that we utilized frequently. The proximity to several great hiking trails was a huge plus as well. If you’re looking for a place to stay in the Catskills then this is one of the best.
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N
Natallie
June 2025
Group trip
Big Indian paradise was amazing. You’re in a secluded spot, with lots of space and there’s also a creek nearby we bathed in the creek and it was so refreshing. It with all the necessary amenities and John and AC even provided us s’mores. The hosts were very sweet and accommodating upon arrival. The area is great as you can hit up some local trail spots. There is no Wi-Fi or cellular so if you’re looking to completely get away this is perfect for you. The beds were comfortable to sleep in. We’re a group of six and it was the perfect size for us. This camp site will always hold a special place in my heart as it’s where we got engaged! We did get a thunder storm one of the nights but luckily not much for wet since we set up a canopy over the cooking area. Definitely recommend brining a canopy for shade and rain.
See moreA
Anna
June 2025
3 nights at Big Indian Wilderness Paradise
This was a beautiful campsite, especially with the creek nearby! There were areas to explore within a short drive but the site still felt private. John & AC were very accommodating!
See moreE
Emily
May 2025
Group trip
John & AC's campsite was amazing! The bunk bed was extremely comfortable & we were able to also fit a twin size air mattress so we could comfortably fit 5 people. The site is secluded and very well maintained & the creek provides a serene soundtrack to the entire stay. John & AC were so communicative & welcoming, would 100% book again!
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Elisabeth
May 2025
Weekend Trip to High Peak Meadows
What an amazing campsite! Although the sun only came out for one day, the group had a wonderful time at camp. The property was spacious and had little nools for folks to set up camp and have some privacy. The picnic table, benches, and garbage bins were great to have and falling asleep to the sound of the creep is such a treat. I highly recommend this site for large groups looking to spread out.
There isn't much shade so recommend having a canopy or tarp for both rainy weather and sun.
The hosts are wonderful people, very kind, and helpful. Thank you for sharing your property with us.
See moreH
Hannah
May 2025
With pets
Gorgeous private property very well maintained and set up. Max was a wonderful host and super easy to communicate with. He made sure we had everything we needed. The provided dry firewood being packed in bins was so helpful after we had a rainy night. Will absolutely return in the future. Thank you for everything!
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