The best family-friendly glamping in Hudson Valley

From the Catskill mountains to historic villages along the river, the south-eastern corridor of New York has a certain romance. These sweeping vistas inspired the Hudson River School painters and continue to lure artists from New York City, less than an hour away. Today, the Hudson Valley is a blend of charming towns, rolling farmland and protected forests, as wells as posh resorts and restaurants. The Metro-North commuter line run as far north as Poughkeepsie for campers who don't have a car.

Harriman State Park and neighboring Bear Mountain State Park are an ideal home base to explore both nature and civilization. Harriman is the second largest park in the state, but only 40 miles from the city. The quiet forest holds 200 miles of hiking trails and dozens of lakes. The largest, Lake Sebago, has fishing, boat rentals, and a public swimming beach. Campers can make reservations at two campgrounds or book a rustic cabin.

For thinner crowds, head north to the Catskills. These rolling green peaks have some of New York's best hiking and skiing. The area also has many private campgrounds and cottages, including camping resorts that tend toward the glamorous with mini fridges and saunas.

North-South Lake is a popular family campground, with sandy beaches, boating, and a playground, as well as hundreds of tent sites. Hike up to the Kaaterskill Falls for a gorgeous view. Experienced hikers can press onward to the Devil's Path, one of the most dangerous trails in the East. For quiet nights, head to the nearby Minnewaska State Park Preserve, which has a much smaller campground and easy trails.

It goes without saying that you can explore the river valley by water as well. The Hudson River Greenway Water Trail stretches over 250 miles from Manhattan to the Adirondacks. The Greenway's map covers access points for kayak launching, along with nearby campsites in state parks.

99% (687)

Top-rated campgrounds

From the Catskill mountains to historic villages along the river, the south-eastern corridor of New York has a certain romance. These sweeping vistas inspired the Hudson River School painters and continue to lure artists from New York City, less than an hour away. Today, the Hudson Valley is a blend of charming towns, rolling farmland and protected forests, as wells as posh resorts and restaurants. The Metro-North commuter line run as far north as Poughkeepsie for campers who don't have a car.

Harriman State Park and neighboring Bear Mountain State Park are an ideal home base to explore both nature and civilization. Harriman is the second largest park in the state, but only 40 miles from the city. The quiet forest holds 200 miles of hiking trails and dozens of lakes. The largest, Lake Sebago, has fishing, boat rentals, and a public swimming beach. Campers can make reservations at two campgrounds or book a rustic cabin.

For thinner crowds, head north to the Catskills. These rolling green peaks have some of New York's best hiking and skiing. The area also has many private campgrounds and cottages, including camping resorts that tend toward the glamorous with mini fridges and saunas.

North-South Lake is a popular family campground, with sandy beaches, boating, and a playground, as well as hundreds of tent sites. Hike up to the Kaaterskill Falls for a gorgeous view. Experienced hikers can press onward to the Devil's Path, one of the most dangerous trails in the East. For quiet nights, head to the nearby Minnewaska State Park Preserve, which has a much smaller campground and easy trails.

It goes without saying that you can explore the river valley by water as well. The Hudson River Greenway Water Trail stretches over 250 miles from Manhattan to the Adirondacks. The Greenway's map covers access points for kayak launching, along with nearby campsites in state parks.

99% (687)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Waterfall Sanctuary & Quiet Retreat

96%

(261)

48 sites · Tents, Lodging · Middleburgh, NY

Not suitable for parties or loud groups. For generations, the majestic waterfall has been revered for its spectacular beauty. It’s considered a sacred site central to local land rematriation work with the Kanienkeha:ka. Coursing between two outcroppings in a deep ravine, the waterfall crashes down over mossy rock shelves into emerald swimming holes and through dramatic clay beds. It’s one of those extraordinarily beautiful spots on earth that make you feel like you are in another world. It's about a 10 minute hike to the waterfall where you can spend the day swimming, exploring the clay beds and looking for fossils in the 280 million year old gorge. In the evening, make a campfire and fall asleep under the stars listening to the river below. The hike is steep and appropriate footwear is required. All hiking is at your own risk. Although your path to the waterfall is private and the waterfall is on private property, there may be other guests or locals that access the waterfall further down the road. There is no glass or alcohol allowed at the falls. Be aware that you may hear your camping neighbors in the woods. For this reason, we ask that you don’t play amplified music and keep noise down after 10pm to enjoy the sounds of frogs, crickets, owls, and night songs of the countryside At the entrance to the campsites there is a barn community room with a charging station, cold water sink, fridge, coffee maker, cookware, and a port-a-potty. There are 5 gallon solar shower bags that you can use at your campsite. You are responsible for filling them and putting them in the sun to heat the water. This is a leave no trace site. Take all your trash with you when you leave. Bring your own biodegradable soap for dishes and toilet paper for the port-a-potty! Firewood is available onsite for $1 per log. The Schoharie Valley is said to be the most fertile valley east of the Mississippi. It is still wild, unspoiled country and there are many local farms stands with fresh produce and organic meat close by. Within a 5 miles radius is a general store, Scrumpy Ewe Cidery, Panther Creek Arts, Rooted Movement, the Sap Bush Country Store and Café, and Mustang Valley (a wild mustang sanctuary). Nearby hikes include Looking Glass Pond and Vroman's Nose, and others.

2. Little Birds Farm

99%

(98)

3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Sparrow Bush, NY

This campsite is nestled in the deep woods of a 120 acre farm that offers beautiful views coming and going. After being allowed to use the restroom at the stone farmhouse, you will then go rustic and start your 3/4 - 1 mile hike in (approximately 20 minutes to the campsite) past the fields and pond down the path into the woods. The trail is remote and you will instantly be able to leave the sights and sounds of civilization behind you and breath the clean forest air. Wear good hiking shoes because portions of the hike are uneven and rocky. This site is best for experienced campers who know how to pack light with just the essentials as there is no tractor service to this campsite. When you arrive at the campsite, you will be within 20 feet of a year round stream with brook trout and in a hundred foot tall hemlock canopy nestled between two brook meadows. A 9,000 acre forested preserve abuts our property so you will be able to completely relax, bird watch, enjoy the wildlife, or fish for a brook trout breakfast without hearing the sounds of anyone but yourselves. The campsite has a stone fire pit, split log benches for seating, a canvas privacy blind around a stand of trees where the composting toilet resides, and a food bag lift to attach your food and trash bags to about 100 yards from the campsite. Unlimited Split firewood is free next to where you will park that you can take down to the site. All trash needs to be carted out with you. We can't accept mixed trash as it will attract animals that will knock over the trashcans and make a mess. No food goes in our personal trashcans as we have learned this the hard way. Thanks! *For those that are looking for a closer walk-in site, look up our Little Birds Farm - Rolling Forest campsite also listed on Hipcamper!

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)

4. Palsgraf estates

100%

(23)

2 sites · Lodging · Tannersville, NY

This is private property located in the Catskill mountains which boarders state land with a short hike to the roaring kill stream. There are 2 cabins with their own fire pits completely off grid.there is a very clean Porto potti for use. Great views of mountains and stars at night. Plenty of wood for campfires and a outdoor barbeque for each cabin.

5. Luxury Camping at 'Higher Ground'

99%

(44)

1 site · Lodging · Putnam Valley, NY

HIGHER GROUND sits at the very southern tip of Clarence Fahnestock State Park. It's the ideal getaway if you want to explore Fahnestock, check out neighboring Cold Spring, Beacon, Peekskill, or just want to hang out at the site and read/relax by a campfire. We're only 1.5 miles from a SECRET entrance to Fahnestock and the trailhead to Candlewood Hill, one of the park's most exquisite views.. Just 2.5 miles away is a main parking lot and the hub for several other hiking trails including Catfish Loop, Three Lakes, Old Mine Railroad and the famed Appalachian Trail. We can provide you with a trail map and help plan your hike. Swimming at Canopus Lake is only 7 miles away. Other Fahenstock activities include fishing, boat rentals, biking, and snowshoeing/x-country skiing in the winter. Both the Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming and Stonecrop Gardens are only about 8 minutes away. 15 minutes to the west, poised on the Hudson River is the historic colonial town of Cold Spring, with shopping, lovely restaurants, plenty of natural attractions and a picturesque riverfront. 30 minutes northwest is the more bustling hipster vibe of Beacon with coffee shops and live music venues, and 20 minutes southeast puts you in the heart of downtown Peekskill with Hudson Valley MOCA and the Paramount Theater. We offer a 1 night minimum, but reservations for 3 or more nights will receive a 10% refund after you reserve the site.

6. Big Indian Wilderness Paradise

99%

(87)

3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Big Indian, NY

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.

7. Hucklebuck Railway Campsites

99%

(82)

2 sites · Lodging · Red Hook, NY

Welcome to our secluded forest getaways, nestled alongside the historic Huckleberry Railway bed and offering scenic views of the Roeliff Jansen Kill. This state-stocked trout stream provides an ideal setting for fishing and swimming. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty as you enjoy activities like swimming, tubing, kayaking in the river, and exploring miles of hiking trails. Abundant wildlife and birdlife enhance the tranquility of the surroundings. Our campsites offer proximity to a variety of attractions, including breweries, wineries, pick-your-own farms, farmer's markets, historical sites, restaurants, and shopping. For your convenience, the nearest supermarket is just eight miles away, and a general store is only four miles from the site. Come unwind in nature's embrace and experience the best of both seclusion and nearby amenities.

8. Bearkill Brook Campsite

100%

(11)

1 site · Lodging · Gilboa, NY

Our property consists of a 230 acre retired dairy farm nestled in the beautiful Catskill mountains. This very private property features a babbling brook, wide open fields to play lawn games, horse shoes, volleyball, corn hole, kickball, and ladder ball . Games are all located in a storage container on site. You can ride bikes in the field or on the road nearby. Plenty of land to hike on or to just sit and enjoy all that nature has to offer. Several hiking trails within a 20 minute drive from the property. We have a small kitchen area with a gas grill and 2 separate fire pits for roasting marshmallows. General store with basic groceries, gas, and beer just a 5 minute drive from the site. The property features bathroom with a flushing toilet and a shower with hot water. This building is just a short walk from the cabin. Spring water faucet on site. Property also features a small solar system. The cabin has a queen sized bunk. Check in after 2:OO pm , before 9:00pm due to the location of the campsite Check out 12:00 pm

9. Campaway on Cotton Hill

98%

(24)

2 sites · Lodging · Berne, NY

Nestled in the Helderberg Hills, sits a campsite on Cotton Hill. This is the perfect site for fishing, swimming, creek walking, fossil hunting, mountain views, star gazing, and just relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. We are close to award-winning breweries, wineries, historic sites, farmers markets, restaurants, and shopping. We have several accessible hiking trails with great views nearby. We can't wait to welcome you to our private slice of heaven. There are 21 acres for you to discover with 10 acres in front, and 11 acres of woods with a meandering creek as the border. You can think of this land as your land for the duration of your stay. Respect the land and tent as you would your own. Squish your toes into the earth and breathe in the wild thyme-filled grassy trails. Go for a walk in the woods. Take a deep breath. Relax and recharge! The pebble beach at the pond allows for a gradual entry and goes to 16 feet deep in the middle. Feel free to swim on out to the floating dock. We love jumping in. There are many fish in the pond, most of them are large mouth bass. You may use our canoe, but please wear a life jacket if you are not a confident swimmer. (*Swimming is at your own risk!) The ‘Fossil Creek Trail’ leads down through the woods from the pond area to the slate bed creek. (*Please watch your footing on the trail- some is quite uneven.) There are many amazing fossils to find if you look in the creek bed during the dryer season. The woods are cooler and bug free, perfect for sitting and relaxing with a book or picnic. There are several mowed trails that wind around the pond and then back up to the Tent.

Camper favorites in and near Hudson Valley

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Palsgraf estates

100%

(23)

2 sites · Lodging · Tannersville, NY

This is private property located in the Catskill mountains which boarders state land with a short hike to the roaring kill stream. There are 2 cabins with their own fire pits completely off grid.there is a very clean Porto potti for use. Great views of mountains and stars at night. Plenty of wood for campfires and a outdoor barbeque for each cabin.

Luxury Camping at 'Higher Ground'

99%

(44)

1 site · Lodging · Putnam Valley, NY

HIGHER GROUND sits at the very southern tip of Clarence Fahnestock State Park. It's the ideal getaway if you want to explore Fahnestock, check out neighboring Cold Spring, Beacon, Peekskill, or just want to hang out at the site and read/relax by a campfire. We're only 1.5 miles from a SECRET entrance to Fahnestock and the trailhead to Candlewood Hill, one of the park's most exquisite views.. Just 2.5 miles away is a main parking lot and the hub for several other hiking trails including Catfish Loop, Three Lakes, Old Mine Railroad and the famed Appalachian Trail. We can provide you with a trail map and help plan your hike. Swimming at Canopus Lake is only 7 miles away. Other Fahenstock activities include fishing, boat rentals, biking, and snowshoeing/x-country skiing in the winter. Both the Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming and Stonecrop Gardens are only about 8 minutes away. 15 minutes to the west, poised on the Hudson River is the historic colonial town of Cold Spring, with shopping, lovely restaurants, plenty of natural attractions and a picturesque riverfront. 30 minutes northwest is the more bustling hipster vibe of Beacon with coffee shops and live music venues, and 20 minutes southeast puts you in the heart of downtown Peekskill with Hudson Valley MOCA and the Paramount Theater. We offer a 1 night minimum, but reservations for 3 or more nights will receive a 10% refund after you reserve the site.

Big Indian Wilderness Paradise

99%

(87)

3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Big Indian, NY

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.

Hucklebuck Railway Campsites

99%

(82)

2 sites · Lodging · Red Hook, NY

Welcome to our secluded forest getaways, nestled alongside the historic Huckleberry Railway bed and offering scenic views of the Roeliff Jansen Kill. This state-stocked trout stream provides an ideal setting for fishing and swimming. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty as you enjoy activities like swimming, tubing, kayaking in the river, and exploring miles of hiking trails. Abundant wildlife and birdlife enhance the tranquility of the surroundings. Our campsites offer proximity to a variety of attractions, including breweries, wineries, pick-your-own farms, farmer's markets, historical sites, restaurants, and shopping. For your convenience, the nearest supermarket is just eight miles away, and a general store is only four miles from the site. Come unwind in nature's embrace and experience the best of both seclusion and nearby amenities.

Bearkill Brook Campsite

100%

(11)

1 site · Lodging · Gilboa, NY

Our property consists of a 230 acre retired dairy farm nestled in the beautiful Catskill mountains. This very private property features a babbling brook, wide open fields to play lawn games, horse shoes, volleyball, corn hole, kickball, and ladder ball . Games are all located in a storage container on site. You can ride bikes in the field or on the road nearby. Plenty of land to hike on or to just sit and enjoy all that nature has to offer. Several hiking trails within a 20 minute drive from the property. We have a small kitchen area with a gas grill and 2 separate fire pits for roasting marshmallows. General store with basic groceries, gas, and beer just a 5 minute drive from the site. The property features bathroom with a flushing toilet and a shower with hot water. This building is just a short walk from the cabin. Spring water faucet on site. Property also features a small solar system. The cabin has a queen sized bunk. Check in after 2:OO pm , before 9:00pm due to the location of the campsite Check out 12:00 pm

Campaway on Cotton Hill

98%

(24)

2 sites · Lodging · Berne, NY

Nestled in the Helderberg Hills, sits a campsite on Cotton Hill. This is the perfect site for fishing, swimming, creek walking, fossil hunting, mountain views, star gazing, and just relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. We are close to award-winning breweries, wineries, historic sites, farmers markets, restaurants, and shopping. We have several accessible hiking trails with great views nearby. We can't wait to welcome you to our private slice of heaven. There are 21 acres for you to discover with 10 acres in front, and 11 acres of woods with a meandering creek as the border. You can think of this land as your land for the duration of your stay. Respect the land and tent as you would your own. Squish your toes into the earth and breathe in the wild thyme-filled grassy trails. Go for a walk in the woods. Take a deep breath. Relax and recharge! The pebble beach at the pond allows for a gradual entry and goes to 16 feet deep in the middle. Feel free to swim on out to the floating dock. We love jumping in. There are many fish in the pond, most of them are large mouth bass. You may use our canoe, but please wear a life jacket if you are not a confident swimmer. (*Swimming is at your own risk!) The ‘Fossil Creek Trail’ leads down through the woods from the pond area to the slate bed creek. (*Please watch your footing on the trail- some is quite uneven.) There are many amazing fossils to find if you look in the creek bed during the dryer season. The woods are cooler and bug free, perfect for sitting and relaxing with a book or picnic. There are several mowed trails that wind around the pond and then back up to the Tent.

Stories from the community

J

Jarvis

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Upper Shire Campsites Hudson Valley

Amazing stay! Host was really helpful and campsite is well kept

R

Rachael

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Luxury Camping at 'Higher Ground'

Evan & Laura have an amazing set up. They had great communication during our stay and in the week leading up. They checked in to see if we needed anything prior, including the propane heater, which in 30-something degree weather was an essential and extremely helpful. The site truly had anything you could ever need. We were extremely impressed and surprised by the outhouse with toilet, shower, and usb-c chargers(!) inside. Reading reviews beforehand were helpful and led us to pack lighter, given the steep climb up. But the climb was definitely worth it. We also loved how Evan showed us how the goats and chickens were fed. My pup definitely loved running up and down the hill to the site and marveled (sometimes a little too much lol) at the goats and chickens she was seeing for the first time! Evan was both kind and accommodating. Would definitely stay again!

J

Ji hye

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Palsgraf estates

Perfect for a weekend escape from the city. The cabin was spacious and spotless, and the restroom was well-maintained. No service, water, or electricity, but firewood was ready for us, and the nights under the stars were amazing. The host was friendly and easy to communicate with, and check-in/check-out were very flexible and smooth. It felt a little pricey for a basic setup, but we still really enjoyed our stay. Highly recommend this spot if you’re looking to disconnect and recharge in nature.

M

Michael

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Luxury Camping at 'Higher Ground'

Evan & Laura have a great secluded site and keep the location in great condition with all the amenities you need.

A

Alex

October 2025

1 night at Waterfall Sanctuary & Quiet Retreat

This was perfect! Everything was as stated. I just packed like I would for a camping trip and was pleased. Even the trail to the waterfall was pretty easy even with the leaves.

L

Laura

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hucklebuck Railway Campsites

Paula and her husband are kind, thoughtful, and helpful hosts! They were very quick to respond to our messages and were incredibly accommodating. I’d forgotten to pack cooking oil and Paula was generous enough to offer some of hers. This place has everything you need! If you enjoy birding this place has a variety of birds. Also, it was so cool to hear a great horned owl in the middle of the night. We all had so much fun at their campsite - the perfect fall getaway. We’d love to visit again in the summer so we can enjoy the swimming holes and take advantage of the hiking trails!

h

huzaifa

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Palsgraf estates

It was lovely staying at Williams cabin. He is a very welcoming and gracious host. Helped us with our campfire and shared so much knowledge and history of the area with us. It was a great overall experience, would definitely recommend!

J

Julia

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Little Birds Farm

I was with a group of 7 and the place comfortably slept all of us! It was pretty chilly out but the insulation of the place and the heaters kept us nice and warm. There was plenty of firewood supplied to keep us toasty as well. The view of the stars at nice was also spectacular. We had a truly magical, outdoor adventure here. We hope we can come back in the future!

B

Beatriz

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Luxury Camping at 'Higher Ground'

This was our second time at Evan & Laura’s tent! We loved it as much as last time. Beautiful fall foliage around! Highly recommended. We’ll be back, thank you so much!

Alex

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at Waterfall Sanctuary & Quiet Retreat

We loved our stay, such a beautiful and well kept spot! Can’t wait to come back.

B

Brandon

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Palsgraf estates

My family and I had a great time! This was our second trip here and I'm sure we'll be back.

K

Key

October 2025

With kids

1 night at Palsgraf estates

Unfortunately, it rained, but the indoor propane heater kept it warm, and we enjoyed ourselves under the porch. The ground wasn’t muddy, and the autumn leaves in the rain were beautiful.

Cassie

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hucklebuck Railway Campsites

We had a wonderful time at Paula and Bill’s campsite. It’s rustic yet well stocked and maintained, with tons of walking paths and a beautiful creek where we spent the afternoon skipping rocks. Bill brought us fresh water and firewood (along with some lovely conversation), and even when a nor’easter rolled through on our final night, we stayed warm and dry in our tent. Paula was so easy to get in touch with and they were flexible with our arrival time coming from NYC. The land they are on is truly stunning and they really care for it with such love. Our six-year-old had the best time and now wishes we could camp there every weekend! We also spent part of one of our days at Kesicke Farm, where he played in the corn maze, fed the animals, and just had an absolute blast. Mighty Donuts was also amazing and a great spot for kids, and Red Hook diner on our way out was just exactly what we needed. Overall, our experience was fantastic, and we would love to come back again!

Mike

October 2025

With kids

1 night at Luxury Camping at 'Higher Ground'

Evan & Laura have done a wonderful job with the campsite! It seems like they thought of everything, even the tiniest little details. My son and I really enjoyed the vibe and had a nice evening sleeping inside tent while it rained. Highly recommend!

sun beams in the early morning illuminating the campsite

N

Nicole

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Big Indian Wilderness Paradise

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!

S

Shane

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Upper Shire Campsites Hudson Valley

Would go again! Great location, accommodating hostess

Rebecca

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hucklebuck Railway Campsites

The campsite was perfect for a group and had everything we needed! Paula was very communicative and helpful, would definitely recommend!

K

Karim

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Luxury Camping at 'Higher Ground'

Staying here was a magical experience! We went in mid-October and the leaves were so beautiful. The campsite has everything you could possibly need, the bed was super comfy, and the table was great for cooking and eating breakfast on. The outhouse is extremely clean and even has a shower! The area around the site is stunning too we even saw some deer. The best part is Evan allowed us to help feed the goats and the chickens in the morning! You won't regret staying here

k

kyrie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Waterfall Sanctuary & Quiet Retreat

What an amazing place. The cabin was so clean and the outhouse was spotless. I had a great time.

Rebecca

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Hucklebuck Railway Campsites

The campsite was perfect for a group and had everything we needed! Paula was very communicative and helpful, would definitely recommend!