The best pets off leash campgrounds in New York

New York state is made for outdoor adventures, whether you're hiking in the Finger Lakes, glamping amid Hudson Valley vineyards, or backcountry camping in the Adirondacks. Campers can take their pick of 180 New York state parks, 22 national park sites, and a national forest, almost all of which provide RV sites and tent camping—some also have cabin rentals and glamping options. June through August is peak camping season in Upstate New York, and camping reservations are essential through fall, too. November through March is ski season, and many RV parks and cabins stay open year-round.

97% (10.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

95%

(32)

4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Vermontville, NY

18. Upper Esopus Creekside Camp

100%

(165)

3 sites · Tents · Big Indian, NY

Primitive Camp on the Esopus Creek in the Big Indian-Oliverea Valley surrounded by seven 3500' Catskill High Peaks including Slide Mountain, the tallest in the Catskills. Our PRIVATE camp (no other campers) is situated on 100 acres of land in the middle of the Catskill State Park. We are the closest HipCamp site to Slide Mountain, the Catskills tallest peak at 4180 feet. A perfect base camp for some of the best hiking in the Catskills, the site is bordered by Forever Wild Forest and is minutes from the trailheads to Balsam, Giant Ledge, Panther, Big Indian, Slide Mountain and dozens more peaks within 30 minutes or so away. Though the base fee covers up to 4 campers, the site accommodates up to 14 campers. The additional fee is $20.00/per camper per night on top of the base fee. Our drive up camp has a 10X12 covered tent platform, several individual tent sites with private fire rings, as well as a bunkhouse and a leanto for day use. The camp table and cook pit are covered from the elements. For toilet use, we have a CleanWaste loo which is a 5 gal bucket in a toilet seat box. You lift the lid, place a CleanWaste bag in the bucket which has a kitty litter like powder called Poo Powder in it. You do your business, the powder absorbs all the odor and gels all the matter. When done, you lift the seat, take out the bag, tie it up and throw it in the trash. There are camp rules about how to handle trash, recycling, and compost so as to minimize the possibility of black bear visits. Follow those rules so as to avoid a penalty fees of $50.00 if trash, recycling, and compost are not followed. A detailed message about trash, recycling, and compost practice will be sent to campers days before the booked trip. Seasoned bundled 16" firewood is available by honor box cash payment on Brown rd across the camp entry road.

19. Stonecutters Ledge

96%

(46)

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!

20. Steady Slope Fields and Forest

99%

(115)

4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Delhi, NY

This land was once all pasture for grazing animals. We moved to Delaware County in November 2018 to start our family and pursue dreams of working on the land. The initial idea was to find a place we could live, garden, and raise a few animals while hosting guests and sharing the land with visitors. When we found this place on Williams Road, we loved the mix of rural and proximity to a thriving country town. We now have two kids and enjoy living in Delhi so much we hardly leave the town limits! There are wonderful restaurants, a great year-round farmers market, grocery stores, and many other services and amenities you can find listed towards the end of this guide. Our Catskill Mountain home is situated on a historic early 19th century farm site. Parts of the house might be more than 190 years old! With several additions and upgrades we think the house has lots of charm and enjoy the many modern touches. The property is overgrown pastures and a few steeper slopes with medium growth trees. After the industrial period saw this region nearly deforested, the land was granted to settlers who cleared fields and planted grass. Our immediate vicinity was knows for it’s cattle (Bovina), mostly for diary, and sheep. The agriculture in Delaware County has been on a decline since the advent of rail shipping opened New York City markets to farms in less challenging geographies. Construction of the NYC fresh water system (DEP Watershed) may have contributed to this decline, but about 60-70 years ago the majority of pastures, especially less productive parcels were abandoned to the “weed trees”. These first succession trees grew quickly in the sunny meadows and covered the hills; trees such as Ash, Hawthorn, and Norway Spruce. Fences and barns were left to return to the earth. On our property the stone walls that boarder the fields are the most stark reminder of the intensive agriculture practiced here.

Camper favorites in New York

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Magic Forest Farm

97%

(803)

16 sites · Tents, RVs · Coeymans Hollow, NY

**Please confirm you have read our property description and rules before booking** 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 an accelerating pace. It is important for us to teach the next generation, there is an alternative. We produce much of our own food. We have friendly goats, chickens, ducks, peacocks, donkeys and horses the guests can pet and feed. There are no swimming holes on our property, but many waterfalls and swimming spots within a short drive (see list below). 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. Nearby Hiking Spots: Holt Preserve - 1.2 miles away Thatcher State Park- 9.4 miles Huyck Preserve- 11 miles Hannacroix Creek Preserrve- 8.4 miles Nearby Swimming Spots: Hannacroix Creek Preserve- 8.4 miles Kaaterskill Falls- 24 miles Thompsons Lake- 10 miles North-South Lake- 24 miles Parking: multiple car parking are available at each site.

Tilden Hill Farm

99%

(1161)

16 sites · Tents, RVs · Vernon, NY

Relax at Tilden Hill Farm its a 155 acre farm raising Black Angus Cattle it has been in the Brewer family for seven generations. Founded in 1798 by Josiah Brewer, the farm has served as a grist mill, chicken farm, cheese factory. We offer several types of site selection for your comfort. Choose from our private tent camping to relaxing RV sites. Our tent sites are quiet and scenic, just a quick walk down to the pond. Some of our sites you can park next to, but a few you will have to walk ~100 yards with your belongings. Tent sites have a porta-john and homemade outdoor shower for your enjoyment! Our RV sites have full hookups: water, electric and also a dump station.Once settled in, take a meandering walk through our 4 miles of walking trails or find your way down to our pond. Water activities are plentiful: fishing for bass, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, we accommodate it all!We look forward to seeing you at Tilden Hill Farm where you can "Experience a Family Tradition"

The Neversink River Isle

99%

(94)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · NY

This private, breathtaking property is nestled directly on the Neversink River, located just one mile from Exit 109 off NY-17 (new I-86). Join us on 3 sprawling acres, and enjoy the serene beauty of the Neversink River. The property is ideal for anyone looking to escape to a secluded, quiet area, with everything from Bald Eagles, Deer, Rabbits, and other local wildlife. Fell free to step right into the shallow river, just footsteps from your tent, and enjoy some smores by the riverside firepit. The river typically doesn't exceed more than 3 feet of depth throughout the entire property (unless high rain totals). Relatively short drives to local attractions include the newly renovated Holiday Mountain Ski & Fun Park (1.2 miles), Resorts World Catskills Casino (2.6 miles), the Kartrite Indoor Water Park (2.9 miles), and Bethel Woods Center for the Arts (18.4 mile), home to the 1969 Woodstock music festival. 2 gas stations, a liquor store and supermarket are also within 2 miles of the property, as well as local eateries. We recommend bringing inflatables and or kayaks to take advantage of the beautiful river. Guests can drop in a few miles up river, and float down to the campsite. Trip can take anywhere from 1 hour to 3 hours depending on current flow and or paddle strength. We hope to have you stay with us!

Round Top Retreat

94%

(47)

1 site · Lodging · Richford, NY

Close to Ithaca, NY, Cayuga Lake, and Cornell University. Once a snowshoe lodge, then a Boy Scout camp, this rustic cabin retreat property is surrounded by the Robinson Hollow State Forest. The 100 year old cabin sits only a few hundred yards from the Sierra Club section of the Finger Lakes Trail. The area is a peaceful spot for hiking, camping and snowshoeing or cross country skiing (October 1 bow season deer hunting begins, and mid-November to December is NYS gun deer season-which may not be as serene as you'd like). Perfect get-away for humans and their four-legged friends, it's a dog's dream vacation spot. Enjoy a week or weekend, or your vacation in a place where the "noise" is the melodious sounds of nature. It is remote enough to completely break from urban life, yet close enough to Ithaca, NY to enjoy its beauty and attractions. Amenities: outhouse, hand water pump, two-seater outhouse, propane grill, some pots and pans, grill utensils, wood stoves, private, gated entrance, pond, trails. Sleeping loft, no bed (you provide mattress/sleeping bag, etc.). There may be candles, toilet paper, bug spray (if left by previous guests). We are an LGBTQ-woman owned property, and welcome all campers regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, political views, religion, or culture of origin. Learn more about this land: A wonderful rustic, private, off-grid get-away, perfect for couples, families, and pups who enjoy camping (log cabin with wood furniture available, you may pitch your tent anywhere on the property - leave no trace). You may see some wildlife throughout the property (including a milk snake that lives in the cabin wall, but is harmless). It is a quiet, rural, farming area. Once at the cabin there are only two to three houses within a half mile (through the woods), so you will have a private space all your own. Winter camping is special - cozy wood heated cabin, hundreds of acres for snow shoeing, cross country skiing, or snowmobiling. Plan ahead, we do not plow the driveway in winter; plan to shovel an off-road parking space, and transport your gear up to the cabin (1100'). Wood is provided. Onsite: water pump, 2-seat outhouse, wood stove, campfire ring, wood, & propane grill. Exclusive access for nature hikes, streams, forest, pond, swimming, bird watching, star gazing, etc. A wheelchair that can navigate grass and some ruts can enter the cabin, but not the outhouse, and the sleeping loft is up stairs (there is room for a cot or mattress on the first floor); the porch is accessible through the cabin. When you book, you are confirming your understanding of the following: there is no electricity, running water, or std. bed/mattresses. You bring own air mattress, bedding, and gear you will need. All-wheel drive vehicle is recommended. We welcome special events, family reunions, or weddings, if your plans do not require utilities (you may bring a generator or other battery operated items, as needed). Note for winter guests: We do not plow the driveway in winter, you need to be ready to shovel an off-road parking spot, and transport gear to cabin (e.g. by sled, snowshoes) Here's a brief list of the basics to bring: Light source: Lantern propane or battery. Air mattress or cot and whatever bedding you need. Paper products (cups, plates, utensils, toilet paper, etc.) Matches/fire starter (there is wood on-site, and a propane grill for cooking that has a self-starter). Bug spray. Cooler and ice. Lawn chairs. There are a few tables, several chairs and benches. There are 2 picnic tables (one outside and one inside). The benches can be moved outside if you'd like, just move them back inside before you leave. The propane grill should only be used outside. There is a hand axe in the cabin to shave kindling, and the wood is already split to be the length for the wood stove, as needed. Gas: 5 miles away. If you plan to grocery shop when you get to the area, the closest store is at East Hill Plaza in Ithaca, about 9 miles past where the cabin is (I can give you all that info if you like). There is lots to explore/see/do in the Ithaca area if you decide to come down off the hill one of the days. I'll have some brochures and things in the cabin, and can answer questions (aka where is the best ice cream, dinner, etc.).

Blackfly Camp and Cabin

95%

(32)

4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Vermontville, NY

Upper Esopus Creekside Camp

100%

(165)

3 sites · Tents · Big Indian, NY

Primitive Camp on the Esopus Creek in the Big Indian-Oliverea Valley surrounded by seven 3500' Catskill High Peaks including Slide Mountain, the tallest in the Catskills. Our PRIVATE camp (no other campers) is situated on 100 acres of land in the middle of the Catskill State Park. We are the closest HipCamp site to Slide Mountain, the Catskills tallest peak at 4180 feet. A perfect base camp for some of the best hiking in the Catskills, the site is bordered by Forever Wild Forest and is minutes from the trailheads to Balsam, Giant Ledge, Panther, Big Indian, Slide Mountain and dozens more peaks within 30 minutes or so away. Though the base fee covers up to 4 campers, the site accommodates up to 14 campers. The additional fee is $20.00/per camper per night on top of the base fee. Our drive up camp has a 10X12 covered tent platform, several individual tent sites with private fire rings, as well as a bunkhouse and a leanto for day use. The camp table and cook pit are covered from the elements. For toilet use, we have a CleanWaste loo which is a 5 gal bucket in a toilet seat box. You lift the lid, place a CleanWaste bag in the bucket which has a kitty litter like powder called Poo Powder in it. You do your business, the powder absorbs all the odor and gels all the matter. When done, you lift the seat, take out the bag, tie it up and throw it in the trash. There are camp rules about how to handle trash, recycling, and compost so as to minimize the possibility of black bear visits. Follow those rules so as to avoid a penalty fees of $50.00 if trash, recycling, and compost are not followed. A detailed message about trash, recycling, and compost practice will be sent to campers days before the booked trip. Seasoned bundled 16" firewood is available by honor box cash payment on Brown rd across the camp entry road.

Stonecutters Ledge

96%

(46)

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!

Steady Slope Fields and Forest

99%

(115)

4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Delhi, NY

This land was once all pasture for grazing animals. We moved to Delaware County in November 2018 to start our family and pursue dreams of working on the land. The initial idea was to find a place we could live, garden, and raise a few animals while hosting guests and sharing the land with visitors. When we found this place on Williams Road, we loved the mix of rural and proximity to a thriving country town. We now have two kids and enjoy living in Delhi so much we hardly leave the town limits! There are wonderful restaurants, a great year-round farmers market, grocery stores, and many other services and amenities you can find listed towards the end of this guide. Our Catskill Mountain home is situated on a historic early 19th century farm site. Parts of the house might be more than 190 years old! With several additions and upgrades we think the house has lots of charm and enjoy the many modern touches. The property is overgrown pastures and a few steeper slopes with medium growth trees. After the industrial period saw this region nearly deforested, the land was granted to settlers who cleared fields and planted grass. Our immediate vicinity was knows for it’s cattle (Bovina), mostly for diary, and sheep. The agriculture in Delaware County has been on a decline since the advent of rail shipping opened New York City markets to farms in less challenging geographies. Construction of the NYC fresh water system (DEP Watershed) may have contributed to this decline, but about 60-70 years ago the majority of pastures, especially less productive parcels were abandoned to the “weed trees”. These first succession trees grew quickly in the sunny meadows and covered the hills; trees such as Ash, Hawthorn, and Norway Spruce. Fences and barns were left to return to the earth. On our property the stone walls that boarder the fields are the most stark reminder of the intensive agriculture practiced here.

Stories from the community

A

Amy

2 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at The Mountain Top @Wright's Farm

We had an awesome time camping for a week! Views were great and we had plenty of space surrounded by orchards. The farmer’s market was also nearby and open everyday with delicious options 🥧

d

dielman

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Tilden Hill Farm

It's such a beautiful place. I went with my friend and he loved it. We hope to return soon with more friends.

Mel

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Glamping Tent Overlooking Waterfall

Such a special spot!!! The space was so adorable and had everything we needed. Sam was super responsive and kind. Will def be back to try this spot or one of the other ones on site!

Rachel

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Steady Slope Fields and Forest

Great tent set-up (heating systems worked wonderfully in the winter) and super easy to coordinate all the logistical things. Loved being near the pups too!

M

Melanie

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Stonecutters Ledge

Jay's land and camp site was wonderful! We came for a late season outing and it delivered. He supplied a propane heater and we slept nice and cozy. The mess tent was well stocked and we had a great weekend!

E

Eddie

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Glamping Tent Overlooking Waterfall

Awesome spot! Sam was a super responsive host and a made sure we had a great stay. Would totally recommend.

D

Dave

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Majestic Farm & Organic Orchard

Super cool rustic cabins set far enough apart that you have privacy. Awesome place to camp and we’ll definitely be back. Also we saw a peacock!

m

matthew

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Gunx Camping On A Horse Farm!

Wally provided super clear directions about where to camp and how to get to his property after I made the reservation.

Setting up my tent on the top of the Stonehenge site!

J

Jen

3 weeks ago

25 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Mountain Top @Wright's Farm

Such a neat spot! Felt very quiet and secluded tucked up to the orchard, but also so close to the store and brewery. We loved our stay and would definitely come again.

S

Sam

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Majestic Farm & Organic Orchard

Very easy to fine and instructions were super helpful. Property was clean and hosts were very communicative. Would stay here again!

S

Sandrine

3 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tilden Hill Farm

We love the place near the water and we had the chance to see the otters. Our dog also enjoyed the area so much. It is also well located near trails and craft brewery.

Kristin

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Riverside Retreat and Tiny Cabin

Wonderfully warm and curated cozy cabin! It was a wet, chilly, late fall weekend and we were so comfortable in Robbin’s tiny house. Everything was just as described and we likewise had everything + more we needed. Really enjoyed the sound system and super appreciated the ample water provided. Love the added space of the lofted bed. The pull down ladder went with the overall fun, creative vibe of the spot. Would absolutely recommend and stay again!

M

Max

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Neversink River Isle

Great site, very clean and a lot of open space. The river was very clear, unfortunately between the 3 of us we only got 1 bite, but it was in November so it was expected. Had a great weekend, we'll be returning in the near future hopefully

A

Adrienne

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Glamping Tent Overlooking Waterfall

This was a great sight! The tub and waterfall view absolutely made our trip! Would definitely come back for another stay!

H

Henry

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at The Mountain Top @Wright's Farm

Wright Farms was an incredible getaway from the city! The farm was beautiful and it was so nice to walk through the apple orchards. The staff was super friendly as well.

Frank

November 2025

2 nights at Glamping Tent Overlooking Waterfall

Had an awesome stay here. The camper was cozy and the kitchen/dining setup made it easy to cook and relax. The tub and fire pit were perfect after a hike. Sam was very responsive and helpful the whole time. Would definitely stay again.

R

Rosalind

November 2025

19 ft campervan

1 night at Tilden Hill Farm

Ken is a great host. We loved camping at Tilden Farms so much that we returned when we realized we would be in the area. The sites are clean, easily accessible, and Ken is available to answer questions. Highly recommend camping at Tilden Farms!!

P

November 2025

26 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Wyomanock Farm

What a great property! Lots of different types of sites, most with beautiful nature views! Easy to find and access. Will definitely come back after winter!

Thomas

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Gunx Camping On A Horse Farm!

Think Yellowstone, but swap Montana for the Shawangunks and drama for chill vibes. Rustic Ridge Horse Farm has gorgeous views and friendly hosts, highly recommended

D

Daniel

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Magic Forest Farm

It was a beautiful site! We really enjoyed our time camping. Animals are super cute too. Highly recommend!

Under $50

(707)

9 sites · Tents, RVs · Watkins Glen, NY

WELCOME to Pooh's Corner- Thank you Hipcamp and all of the beautiful people whom we've had the pleasure of hosting in 2025. Sadly, we must relent to the colder temperatures of NY State and will be closed until mid-April when the Earth tilts back towards the Sun :) IF you'd like to guarantee a spot at Pooh's Corner, you can still book for 2026. See you all in the Spring! We hope you enjoy Pooh's Corner as much as we enjoy having all of you great Hipcampers sharing our beautiful Fingerlakes Region with us. Pooh's Corner lies in a rural area just 1.5 miles from Watkins Glen. (3315 County Road 28, Watkins Glen, NY 14891). We took great care to make sure each campsite is PRIVATE (parking on-site*) and the trails are easily navigable. Our 'Welcome Shed' is equipped with a compost toilet, local information, (newly added) Hot Water Station, first-aid kit, charging station, bug spray etc. and is located in a safe, well lit, open area on the property. Each site is equipped with a fire pit and comfortable seating with tables, chairs, and/or picnic tables and tripod grills. Firewood is available on a donation basis. There are State Parks and places to hike one of the many gorges around beautiful Seneca Lake and surrounding area. Take a tour of the many wineries and breweries which our region is famous for. Enjoy hiking, swimming, biking, kayaking, and many historical sites to see. Our reviews tell it all. We know you'll love it here :) *PLEASE NOTE: Our sites are custom made for TENT or CAR camping. Because we have "parking on-site", Large RVs, Campers (over 16'), and any 5th-wheel campers are very difficult to place since there are no easy ways to back in or turn around. We highly recommend "Havana Glen State Park" (same general area) for those types of camping units.

Available this weekend

99%

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Hubbardsville, NY

Our family dairy farm has been in operation for over 50 years on this hill. We are situated near the Madison/Chenango county line and among 4 homesteads we have access to over 500 acres; though only 70 are connected to this property. Fortunately less than a mile away we have “The Brookfield state lands”-Charles E Baker State Forest; offering 130 miles of equestrian trails. also suitable for hiking but cyclists need to stick to the “TT- truck trails” throughout, there’s plenty of mileage to explore within and wandering country roads for miles and miles around. We currently have open camping and depending on your preferences we can find a spot just for you. We have a substantial wood lot for the rustic folks along with plenty of flat ground for RVS. (If you park close enough to, and have a long cord electric could be available).

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best pets off leash camping in New York guide

Where to go

New York City & Long Island

When the temperatures rise in summer, New York campers make a beeline for the sandy shores of Long Island. Beach camping experiences abound on the island, both along the Atlantic Coast and the North Shore. Check into one of the coastal RV parks, camp at one of the many country parks, or head to the beachside campgrounds at Hither Hills State Park or Wildwood State Park.

Hudson Valley & the Catskills

Vineyards and heritage towns dot the banks of the Hudson River, north of NYC, stretching all the way up to the Catskills Mountains. There’s lakeside camping within an hour’s drive of the city at Harriman State Park, kayak-in tent sites at Hudson River Islands State Park, and a popular campground at Bear Mountain State Park. For keen hikers, some of the best camping and glamping is found in the vast Catskill Forest Preserve.

Saratoga & Adirondacks

To escape the crowds and explore the wilderness, continue north into the Adirondacks, where the soaring mountains and wild woodlands stretch across more than 6 million acres. Epic hikes, fall foliage views, and idyllic lakes await campers, whether you prefer a hike-in tent site or a cozy log cabin in the woods. Don’t fancy hiking? Try whitewater rafting along the Ausable River, go canoeing between the three Saranac Lakes, or enjoy boating on Lake George.

Central New York & the Finger Lakes

For tranquil lakeside camping, the Finger Lakes get our vote. Regional highlights include the Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park, the beaches and waterfalls of Buttermilk Falls State Park, and the "Grand Canyon of the East" at Letchworth State Park, but you can also fill your camping trip with wine tasting, farm-to-table restaurants, and lake activities.

Western New York

More than 65,000 acres of mountains, forest, and lakes make up the vast Allegany State Park, where you can choose from four state campgrounds or book one of the many cabins. Further north, there’s beachside camping along the shores of Lake Ontario, while Four Mile Creek State Park is one of three western New York state parks to offer yurt rentals. An added bonus? It’s within a 15-minute drive of Niagara Falls.