The best ranch camping in Catskills

·

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% (2.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Watching the sunset from my tent.

1. The Mountain Top @Wright's Farm

97%
(766)
7 sites · Tents, RVs · Gardiner , NY
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Upper Shire Campsites Hudson Valley

3. Upper Shire Campsites Hudson Valley

100%
(238)
7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hillsdale, NY
The Upper Shire Private Campsites in the Hudson Valley are on a gorgeous hill with a small pond surrounded by 22 acres of an old horse ranch. 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)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night
Ten Mile River: Lakeside Cabins

4. Ten Mile River: Lakeside Cabins

3 sites · Lodging · Narrowsburg, NY
Ten Mile River Scout Camps (TMR) is a large wilderness area of over 12,000 acres in the Sullivan County Catskills, New York, encompassing several summer camps (Keowa, Aquehonga, Ranachqua) and a Public Lakeside Camp. This environment, featuring lakes, meadows, and access to the Delaware River, provides a perfect backdrop for a relaxing outdoor getaway. Family Camp at Ten Mile River Scout Camps is a unique public campground located on beautiful Lake Nianque. Designed as the scout camp for families, we offer an expansive program for youth and adults seeking a summer camp experience. The facility features secluded cabin sites, many of which are right on the shore. Family Camp is well equipped to provide a refreshing and enjoyable outdoor adventure for the whole family. Our Lakeside and Family Camp is unique in that the entire family—from toddlers to grandparents—can participate in outdoor activities or spend the day relaxing in the beautiful, secluded forest. Most families return year after year for the fun, camaraderie, and togetherness of Lakeside. Camp staff run daily programs suitable for all ages and provide access to program areas at the Scout summer camps. Looking for a more private event, family reunion, or a couple’s romantic woodland experience? Our Schiff cabins are ideally located in a small area away from the bustle and excitement of Summer Camp programming. Read a book, relax, and meet new friends. Join in evening programs—from potluck dinners and movies to karaoke and campfires—it’s always fun for the whole family. A great waterfront, supervised by a certified lifeguard, awaits you. Enjoy a refreshing swim or use the rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and sailboats. Go fishing and try to catch the “BIG ONE.” Beyond the waterfront, there are mountain bikes available for your use, a craft lodge, the Red Dot Trail for hikes, volleyball, and horseshoes. Or, if you’d rather just spend quality time with your family in a pristine natural environment, you can do that too. Participate in as much of the Family Camp programs as you like.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$143
 / night
Magic Forest Farm

5. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
BeaverWood Farm (no children)

6. BeaverWood Farm (no children)

99%
(1004)
42 sites · Tents, RVs · Ferndale, NY
A 15 acre farm with over 100 LOOSE FARM ANIMALS! Lake views, free boats, a hot shower, picnic tables & 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 boating in the lake, 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 extremely 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 10am and 9pm. Follow us on Instagram or Facebook: @beaverwoodfarmers
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Campsites at Stonewall

8. Campsites at Stonewall

97%
(94)
7 sites · Tents, RVs · Middletown, NY
Fall is here the leafs are changing. Come spend the next couple weekends with us!! The weather looks beautiful all weekend..We have a wonderful panoramic views with the best sunsets and star gazing . We have horses. Ponies, goats, ducks, chickens, and turkies on site!!! We are kid and pet friendy And lots of other wildlife. We are Close NYC and all major highways. Surrounded by tons of loca attractions. Hiking and fishing close by. There are fantastic local restaurants, wineries and breweries cise bye. This beautiful and private 97 acre horse farm is made up of beautiful rolling fields filled with horses. The property is nicely surrounded in beautiful woods with plenty of nature to watch. The property was originally used for farming then converted to dairy. And now a horse farm. This farm was established around 1815. . We enjoy meeting new people and being able to share this wonderful property!
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$65
 / night
"RISE and SHINE"

10. The 1895 Farm Camp

100%
(69)
1 site · Tent · Walden, NY
Purchased in September 2024, our farm was once part of a larger farm adjoining our property. Our neighbors 27 acres where part of the original farm as well. where they still grow vegetables, collect honey from their bees, and maple syrup from our trees, all of which is available at the farm stand next door. Learn more about this land: Our small, sweet farm is a wonderful place to stay! We offer a private camping site on the other side of our pond with wooded trails!  Come enjoy the beauty which includes our animals. We have horses (Chuck, Karl and Snookie), chickens and sometimes farm fresh eggs are available. Our farm is quiet, lovely and peaceful! Near our farm you can find many activities including: Angry Orchard, Lego Land, Goshen Historic Track, Trotter's Museum, West Point, Minnewaska & Mohawk, the Hudson river. Fishing hiking & climbing. There is also a local gun club nearby that is open to the public. Wineries, dining, horseback riding, Woodstock Museum, Renegades Baseball Stadium, Monticello Race Way, Apple Orchards and our favorite, many local farm stands.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$63
 / night

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% (2.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Watching the sunset from my tent.

1. The Mountain Top @Wright's Farm

97%
(766)
7 sites · Tents, RVs · Gardiner , NY
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Upper Shire Campsites Hudson Valley

3. Upper Shire Campsites Hudson Valley

100%
(238)
7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hillsdale, NY
The Upper Shire Private Campsites in the Hudson Valley are on a gorgeous hill with a small pond surrounded by 22 acres of an old horse ranch. 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)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night
Ten Mile River: Lakeside Cabins

4. Ten Mile River: Lakeside Cabins

3 sites · Lodging · Narrowsburg, NY
Ten Mile River Scout Camps (TMR) is a large wilderness area of over 12,000 acres in the Sullivan County Catskills, New York, encompassing several summer camps (Keowa, Aquehonga, Ranachqua) and a Public Lakeside Camp. This environment, featuring lakes, meadows, and access to the Delaware River, provides a perfect backdrop for a relaxing outdoor getaway. Family Camp at Ten Mile River Scout Camps is a unique public campground located on beautiful Lake Nianque. Designed as the scout camp for families, we offer an expansive program for youth and adults seeking a summer camp experience. The facility features secluded cabin sites, many of which are right on the shore. Family Camp is well equipped to provide a refreshing and enjoyable outdoor adventure for the whole family. Our Lakeside and Family Camp is unique in that the entire family—from toddlers to grandparents—can participate in outdoor activities or spend the day relaxing in the beautiful, secluded forest. Most families return year after year for the fun, camaraderie, and togetherness of Lakeside. Camp staff run daily programs suitable for all ages and provide access to program areas at the Scout summer camps. Looking for a more private event, family reunion, or a couple’s romantic woodland experience? Our Schiff cabins are ideally located in a small area away from the bustle and excitement of Summer Camp programming. Read a book, relax, and meet new friends. Join in evening programs—from potluck dinners and movies to karaoke and campfires—it’s always fun for the whole family. A great waterfront, supervised by a certified lifeguard, awaits you. Enjoy a refreshing swim or use the rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and sailboats. Go fishing and try to catch the “BIG ONE.” Beyond the waterfront, there are mountain bikes available for your use, a craft lodge, the Red Dot Trail for hikes, volleyball, and horseshoes. Or, if you’d rather just spend quality time with your family in a pristine natural environment, you can do that too. Participate in as much of the Family Camp programs as you like.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$143
 / night
Magic Forest Farm

5. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
BeaverWood Farm (no children)

6. BeaverWood Farm (no children)

99%
(1004)
42 sites · Tents, RVs · Ferndale, NY
A 15 acre farm with over 100 LOOSE FARM ANIMALS! Lake views, free boats, a hot shower, picnic tables & 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 boating in the lake, 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 extremely 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 10am and 9pm. Follow us on Instagram or Facebook: @beaverwoodfarmers
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Campsites at Stonewall

8. Campsites at Stonewall

97%
(94)
7 sites · Tents, RVs · Middletown, NY
Fall is here the leafs are changing. Come spend the next couple weekends with us!! The weather looks beautiful all weekend..We have a wonderful panoramic views with the best sunsets and star gazing . We have horses. Ponies, goats, ducks, chickens, and turkies on site!!! We are kid and pet friendy And lots of other wildlife. We are Close NYC and all major highways. Surrounded by tons of loca attractions. Hiking and fishing close by. There are fantastic local restaurants, wineries and breweries cise bye. This beautiful and private 97 acre horse farm is made up of beautiful rolling fields filled with horses. The property is nicely surrounded in beautiful woods with plenty of nature to watch. The property was originally used for farming then converted to dairy. And now a horse farm. This farm was established around 1815. . We enjoy meeting new people and being able to share this wonderful property!
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$65
 / night
"RISE and SHINE"

10. The 1895 Farm Camp

100%
(69)
1 site · Tent · Walden, NY
Purchased in September 2024, our farm was once part of a larger farm adjoining our property. Our neighbors 27 acres where part of the original farm as well. where they still grow vegetables, collect honey from their bees, and maple syrup from our trees, all of which is available at the farm stand next door. Learn more about this land: Our small, sweet farm is a wonderful place to stay! We offer a private camping site on the other side of our pond with wooded trails!  Come enjoy the beauty which includes our animals. We have horses (Chuck, Karl and Snookie), chickens and sometimes farm fresh eggs are available. Our farm is quiet, lovely and peaceful! Near our farm you can find many activities including: Angry Orchard, Lego Land, Goshen Historic Track, Trotter's Museum, West Point, Minnewaska & Mohawk, the Hudson river. Fishing hiking & climbing. There is also a local gun club nearby that is open to the public. Wineries, dining, horseback riding, Woodstock Museum, Renegades Baseball Stadium, Monticello Race Way, Apple Orchards and our favorite, many local farm stands.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$63
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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