Camping in the Catskills

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Just over two hours away from New York City, this mountain region is loved for its rolling green hills, pristine forests, and hidden waterfalls. The natural beauty has drawn visitors for over a century, leaving a history of grand resorts and hotels. The Catskill Mountains are the birthplace of fly fishing, as well as a popular destination for skiing, hiking, kayaking and, of course, camping.

Summer is the high season for campers when the comfortable temperatures lure folks away from the sweltering city. Autumn has fans, too. Visitors come as the trees change color, recasting the land in brilliant oranges and reds.

Kaaterskill Falls is perhaps the most famous scenic spot. This stunning waterfall cascades down over 250-feet. The falls have inspired artists for centuries, including several Hudson River School painters. The North-South Lake campground is close by. The largest of the New York State campgrounds, this spot has many family-friendly amenities, including beaches, boat rentals, and hiking trails.

Experienced hikers come to the Devil's Path to tackle one of the country's most difficult--and dangerous--hiking trails. The path takes hikers over some of the highest peaks, including Hunter Mountain. In the winter, this mountain is a major thrill for skiers and snowboarders. The Hunter Mountain Skyride has chair lifts that take you to the top most days of the year.

The Esopus Creek offers some of the best fly fishing in the country, particularly for trout. For a home base, check out the Kenneth L. Wilson campground, just a short drive from Mt. Tremper. The ground is on Wilson Lake and has a fishing pier to cast off into the shallow water.

You can also explore the Catskill Forest Preserve by water, following the many tributaries and lakes. Little Pond campground is a nice jumping off point. In addition to tent sites, there are several remote campgrounds off the beaten path for more seclusion. Just down the road are Big Lake and Alder Lake, two favorite spots for flat-water paddling. Motorboats aren't allowed, so small craft have the water all to themselves.

98% (11K) • 3,264 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Catskills

SoHi Campground

1. SoHi Campground

94%
(50)
Accord, NY · 374 sites · Tents, RVs
We still have plenty of availability for Labor Day!Discover the charm of our secluded campground, nestled within a serene wooded landscape that offers a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Our tent sites provide a tranquil retreat, surrounded by nature, ensuring a peaceful camping experience. Yet sites are in ear clean bathrooms and showers with hot water. We are pleased to offer clean and well-maintained bathrooms and showers for your convenience. Additionally, we welcome RV and motorhome reservations, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Our large, shaded private sites are perfect for those seeking a bit of solitude, with a minimum stay of two nights to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. This season, we are committed to adhering to all Ulster County Pandemic Rules, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all our guests. We are excited to welcome you to our campground, where adventure awaits just beyond your doorstep. From nearby swimming holes to a variety of outdoor activities, as well as local restaurants and shops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We can't wait to see you!
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Gunx Camping On A Horse Farm!

2. Gunx Camping On A Horse Farm!

95%
(522)
Kerhonkson, NY · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We love having chill rock climbers, hikers and families on our farm/wedding venue.  It's not a campground!  It's just a super cool place to have some privacy and a camp fire and be really close to the best hiking and climbing, and swimming holes and farmers markets and road biking around.Horse farm / Wedding venue super close to Gunx, Minnewaska State Park, Mohonk Preserve, Lipman Park (Mt biking) Great for rock climbers, families, hikers, horse folks.Sites are private with fire pits. It is $25/ person per night!Strict cancellation policy so if not sure, just book for 1 person to guaranty a space and settle up upon arrival when you know your actual plans and numbers ?So, we do weddings on some summer /fall weekends.   You camp in a totally different part of the property and are no where near the wedding activity at all.  Occasionally, the music is audible.  We do our best to let the wedding folks have their fun without irritating neighbors and campers, but feel free to check in with us before booking.
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The Mountain Top @Wright's Farm

3. The Mountain Top @Wright's Farm

98%
(903)
Gardiner , NY · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
It all started when grandfather Charles B Wright first establish this farm in 1904. He purchased it for its natural springs. In our barn (now home to Gardiner Brewing Company) he had gravity fed water troughs for his cattle. Since then we have slowly switched from animals to tree fruit. You will enjoy rolling hills of fruit trees and fruit gardens along with beautiful views of the Shawangunk Mountain Ridge. We have 450+ acres so it in very private. As we are a working farm, you can see us driving pass with our tractors or maintaining the orchard around your campsite on occasion. You are welcome to ride your bikes, hike or jog where you will pass ponds and a working farm landscape. Please don’t pick our fruit. If you would like to enjoy the fruits of our labor please visit our farm store open year round on the premises where we sell cheeses, our fresh picked fruit and veggies, local meats, and our famous cider donuts along with other farm products. We also have a farm brewery open 3-7 in our old dairy barn for you to enjoy. Live music Saturdays and Sundays. Minnewaska State Park and Mohonk Reserve are only 10 minutes away. The rail trail is three minutes away. This trail gives you walking and biking access into New Paltz, where there is tons of restaurants and lots of shopping. Please be aware that during the months of September and October there may be a Pick-Your-Own customer or two walking around picking apples around the campsite area between the hours of 10:00-6:00. You are also welcome to come down to the farm market and purchase bags to pick your own apples in season.
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Catskill State Park

4. Catskill State Park

97%
(84)
State park in New York · 708 sites
Escape the hustle of NYC with a retreat to the expansive Catskills.
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Lake Taghkanic State Park

5. Lake Taghkanic State Park

100%
(4)
State park in New York · 86 sites
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.
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Interlake RV Park and Campground

6. Interlake RV Park and Campground

94%
(8)
Rhinebeck, NY · 163 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Interlake RV Resort is Rhinebeck, NY's full-service campground with comfortable sites, great amenities, and easy access to everything the Hudson Valley has to offer. Welcome to Interlake RV Resort, Rhinebeck, NY's home for comfortable, easy camping in the Hudson Valley. A long weekend or a full season, Interlake is set up for both. We have 101 RV sites with electric/water and full hookup options, a private cottage, indoor suites, and hostel rooms. On-site you'll find a heated pool, catch-and-release fishing pond, arcade games, camp store, coin laundry, snack bar, and a solid lineup of community events and planned activities that runs all season long. We're located in Rhinebeck, NY, right in the middle of Dutchess County and everything the Hudson Valley does best. Great restaurants, local wineries, hiking trails, farmers markets, and the Hudson River are all close by and easy to get to. We're open April 1 through October 31. Come see what Interlake is all about. We'd love to have you.
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BeaverWood Farm (no children)

7. BeaverWood Farm (no children)

99%
(1117)
Ferndale, NY · 40 sites · Tents, RVs
A 15 acre farm with over 100 LOOSE FARM ANIMALS! Lake views, hot shower, picnic tables & camp fire rings. No children under 16. There are no specific campsites here. Cheap firewood, $20/shelf. We provide a custom Google Map, full of farm details and several local activities like hiking up a nearby Walnut Mountain and swimming at the gorge, a secret swimming hole. Well behaved dogs are welcome and may be off leash if they do not chase the animals. We cannot offer reimbursement for tents damaged by animals. This is rare, but it CAN happen. If you do not wish to put your tent at risk, please do not camp here. We charge "per person, per night", not by the campsite or vehicle. Check-in anytime between 9am and 9pm. Follow us on Instagram or Facebook: @beaverwoodfarmers
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The Outpost NY

8. The Outpost NY

93%
(53)
Pond Eddy, NY · 42 sites · Tents, RVs
The Outpost is a fun-filled camping, RV, and river rafting adventure resort featuring a popular restaurant and bar, located along the beautiful Delaware River in Pond Eddy, NY. Spanning 70 stunning acres, The Outpost offers one mile of riverfront camping and rafting, two miles of hiking trails, birdwatching, and a 5-star restaurant. Both riverfront and brookside lodging options are available, including campsites, RV sites, and luxe cabins. Our stunning waterfront cabins are perched on the banks of the Delaware, just 90 minutes from Manhattan. Each features a cozy porch, hot tub, smokeless fire pit, central AC, full bathroom, deluxe bed, kitchenette, and living room with a premium pull-out leather couch. Enjoy beach access at your doorstep, with rafting, canoeing, and an award-winning restaurant on-site, complete with indoor and outdoor bars. You’ll also find two miles of hiking trails, volleyball courts, and horseshoes—all with breathtaking river views from every window. The Outpost Resort is located 16 miles north of Port Jervis along scenic Route 97 on the Delaware River in Pond Eddy, NY. Just under two hours from NYC, the drive is especially popular with motorcycle and car clubs, passing through the famous Hawks Nest overlook. The area comes alive in spring, summer, and fall with tourists, nature lovers, leaf-peepers, campers, and rafters from across the country and around the globe. In the winter months, visitors head to nearby Catskills ski resorts and small-town retreats. Nearby, guests can explore the culture of towns such as Port Jervis, Barryville, Eldred, and Monticello—or catch a live concert at the world-renowned Bethel Woods venue, home of the original 1969 Woodstock festival.
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Red Fox Meadow Campsite

9. Red Fox Meadow Campsite

95%
(350)
New Paltz, NY · 4 sites
A grassy meadow nestled between a forested ridge and 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 the Rosendale trestle bridge is a short bike or walk away. We have hot water showers and heated bathrooms in the Owlwood. Use our hand-drawn map to find your way around the farm. Please drive extremely slowly while on the farm road (7.2 mph), there are kids and critters everywhere, and your car will thank you! Also, we encourage everyone to drive as little as possible while on the farm; why drive when you can walk and enjoy the land? If you want to sleep in a car, van, truck, or RV, you must contact us ahead of your arrival so we can tell you where to car camp. No cars are allowed in Red Fox Meadow! Also, if the meadow seems too wet to camp in, give us a shout! There are other areas to camp that are drier in the wet moments, just not as private. We look forward to meeting you!
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Max V. Shaul State Park

10. Max V. Shaul State Park

100%
(3)
State park in New York · 30 sites
Experience a little bit of everything at Max V. Shaul State Park. Find time to relax under the shady trees, or hike the nature trails, or fish in Panther Creek! And in winter, come prepared with ice skates and cross country skis in tow. This quiet tent and trailer camping area is perfect for a weekend getaway, no matter the time of year. Bonus points! When you camp at Max V. Shaul, you gain access to so much more: free entry to Blenheim-Bilboa Reservoir, Mine Kill Falls, and so many more hiking trails.
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Macedonia Brook State Park

11. Macedonia Brook State Park

100%
(3)
State park in Connecticut · 51 sites
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.
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Fahnestock State Park

12. Fahnestock State Park

86%
(14)
State park in New York · 75 sites
Whether on the water or on the trails, this NY park is the perfect setting for adventure.
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Taconic State Park

13. Taconic State Park

72%
(9)
State park in New York · 152 sites
One of America’s “Last Great Places” offers wilderness, water features, and outdoor recreation.
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Haines Falls Mountain Retreat

14. Haines Falls Mountain Retreat

93%
(98)
Tannersville, NY · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
🌲 **Private Catskills Camping Near Kaaterskill Falls | Pond • Secluded Sites Escape to 15 acres of quiet forest just minutes from some of the Catskills’ best hiking, including Kaaterskill Falls. Our land is designed for space, privacy, and a true back-to-nature experience—whether you’re pitching a tent under the trees or staying in one of our furnished glamping setups. 🏕️ **The Property** * 15 wooded acres with a mix of forest, open clearings, and a small pond * Thoughtfully spaced campsites (no crowded campground feel) * Peaceful, low-key environment—ideal for relaxing after a day of hiking 🌊 **Pond Area** * Select sites with water views * Great for morning coffee, reading, and unwinding * Seating areas to enjoy the setting 🛖 **Stay Your Way** * Primitive campsites for tents and small rigs * Premium secluded sites for extra privacy * Furnished glamping options with beds and simple comforts 🔥 **Amenities** * Fire pits at every site * Clean, well-maintained composting toilet * Firewood available on-site 📍 **Location** * ~5 minutes to Kaaterskill Falls trail access * Close to Tannersville for food and supplies * Easy access directly from driveway 🌌 **What Makes This Place Different** This isn’t a packed campground. Each site is intentionally placed to give you your own space—whether you want to relax by the fire, explore the woods, or just enjoy some quiet under the stars. — **Good to Know** * No hookups (this is a nature-focused experience) * Please respect quiet hours and neighboring sites * Pack in / pack out mindset helps keep the land beautiful Come for the hiking, stay for the peace and quiet.
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Dominion House Farm and Trails

15. Dominion House Farm and Trails

99%
(354)
Blooming Grove, NY · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This historic renovated Hudson Valley ranch offers four sites convenient from Interstate 84, the NYS Thruway Interstate 87, and Route 17/Interstate 86. Site 1 is a leveled stone pad easily accessible from the paved driveway, in front of two rustic barns where campers enjoy 30 amp electric service and a picnic table. Sites 2, 3 and 4 are in a private field (w/o service) each including a picnic table and fire ring. There are 40 acres including walking trails, and miles of adjacent rail trails for hiking/mountain biking from your site. Visit Schunnemunk State Park, Brotherhood winery/restaurant, local breweries, Storm King Art Center, Washington's Headquarters, West Point, Motorcyclepedia museum, Lego Land, and more.
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TainoWoods Fairy Magical Sweet Land

16. TainoWoods Fairy Magical Sweet Land

98%
(400)
Harris, NY · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Taino Woods Sanctuary & Fairy Magical Land — a peaceful forest sanctuary nestled along the East Mongaup River in the Catskills of New York. Our 10-acre land offers riverside camping, glamping, fire circles, stargazing, and a chance to slow down beneath the trees. Whether you come to rest, reconnect, explore nature, or simply breathe deeply for a few days, this land invites you to unwind and reset. Guests often tell us that the peaceful atmosphere, songs shared around the land, and beautiful river are what make Taino Woods unlike anywhere they've camped before. Guests spend their days cooling off in the river, exploring the forest, listening to birds and flowing water, sharing stories around the fire, cooking outdoors, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the land. Taíno Woods Sanctuary is rooted in respect for nature, community, and ancestral connection. Guests may encounter music, storytelling, fire circles, seasonal gatherings, and opportunities to connect more deeply with nature and one another. AMENITIES: • Riverside campsites & glamping bell tents • Outdoor hot & cold shower • Shared outdoor kitchen • Fire pits, Firewood, Fire starters • ATV gear transport available • Taíno Xpress camp Handmade soaps, Tick sprays, Trinkets • Nearby hiking, waterfalls & river access • Reiki, Guided forest walks, Purification lodge (when scheduled) NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: Perfect for guests seeking camping just 15 minutes from Bethel Woods concerts, Catskills hiking, glamping, and river adventures. Nearby attractions include Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Sam’s Point, Neversink trails & waterfalls, Kittatinny Canoes, Silver Canoe & Whitewater Rafting, Resorts World Catskills, Kartrite Indoor Water Park, and local restaurants including Namaste, The Red Dot Vegan, Nelly’s Latin, Ciao Bella and Tilly’s Diner. We lovingly care for this forest and ask guests to help preserve its beauty by respecting wildlife, plants, river spaces, and the peaceful atmosphere shared by all. Whether you pitch a tent beneath the trees, stay by the river, or enjoy one of our glamping spaces, we look forward to welcoming you to this magical corner of the Catskills. We are not a commercial camp ground.
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Magic Forest Farm

17. Magic Forest Farm

96%
(657)
Coeymans Hollow, NY · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
**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.
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Ugly Apple Farms

18. Ugly Apple Farms

97%
(265)
Port Jervis, NY · 5 sites
Ugly Apple Farms was started by my Wife and to try to bring fresh organic/permaculture food to our community. We love to play music and get together with our friends and have been hosting people for some time. We thought that hipcamp could introduce people to our mission and make some extra money to get the farm off the ground. Ugly Apple Farms is a diverse place. We have opportunities for farm classes, pick your own veggies and more. We also have 1800 feet of access to the Neversink River. We recommend four wheel drive for some of our sites so please ask about them. We are an off grid farm with access to some solar for charging. We have tent sites and room for campers. Our camping is primitive but there is access to potable water and sanitation if needed. All extras are first come first serve if not reserved in advance. We love and welcome any questions! Thanks for looking!! Randall and Melissa
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Brown Barn Farms

19. Brown Barn Farms

98%
(116)
New Hampton, NY · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful Field Camping Next to a Cocktail Barn You'll have a good time if you like to camp or RV. Food Truck on site. Full craft bar offering Orange County Distillery Spirits, NYS Beers, wines and ciders. Full refreshment line for non drinkers. Brown Barn is Open Fridays 4-10om Saturdays 12-10pm Sundays 12-7pm Porta Potti and Dumpster on site.
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Upper Shire Campsites Hudson Valley

20. Upper Shire Campsites Hudson Valley

100%
(278)
Hillsdale, NY · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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. It is located in Columbia County near the Massachusetts and New York border. 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 and our new off-grid double shower shack with hot and cold water on demand. This place has 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 available to rent ($15 for two nights) you can also find that option under "extras" along with bundles of firewood ($15)
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Frequently Asked Questions

You cannot camp anywhere in the Catskills, but there are designated camping areas and rules for dispersed camping in the region. In the Catskill Park, which covers 700,000 acres, there are both developed campgrounds and primitive camping opportunities. For developed campgrounds, you can find a variety of options on Hipcamp, including tent sites, RV parks, and glamping spots.

For dispersed camping, you can camp in the Catskill Forest Preserve, which is part of the Catskill Park, following the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) regulations. Some of these rules include:

  • Camping at least 150 feet away from roads, trails, and water sources.
  • Not camping above 3,500 feet in elevation from March 22 to December 21.
  • Not camping in areas posted with "No Camping" signs.
  • Obtaining a permit if you are camping with a group of 10 or more people or staying at the same site for more than three nights.

Always practice Leave No Trace principles and be aware of any local regulations or restrictions before camping in the Catskills.

The best time of year to camp in the Catskills is during the late spring, summer, and early fall months, generally from May to October. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of the region. Additionally, the fall foliage in the Catskills is particularly stunning, with vibrant colors typically peaking in October.

Yes, the Catskills region in New York is definitely worth visiting. The area offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing. There are also charming small towns, scenic drives, and cultural attractions to explore. The Catskills boasts beautiful mountains, dense forests, and numerous waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Some popular campgrounds and glamping options in the Catskills can be found on Hipcamp. The region offers a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, especially for those living in nearby New York City.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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