Mountainous a-frames near Roscoe

Just two hours from New York City, the little hamlet of Roscoe is a haven for anglers. Home of five of America’s top trout streams, Roscoe is fondly known as Trout Town, USA. WIth its historic downtown and access to the Catskills mountains, it’s the perfect place to get away from it all and enjoy outdoor activities including rafting, kayaking, and snowshoeing. Those wishing to set up camp nearby will find lots of options.

Delaware Wild Forest

Around a 30-minute drive north of Roscoe, the Delaware Wild Forest is located in the western Catskill Forest Preserve and has more than 47 miles of recreational trails with 28 miles designated as snowmobile trails. There are four lean-to shelters located in the wild forest.

Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River

To the south of Roscoe, the Delaware River offers plenty of recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and hiking. There’s also the chance of spotting wintering bald eagles along the river. River users can use the water access-only Pennsylvania State Forest primitive camping area within the Buckhorn Natural Area of Delaware State Forest.

Hudson Highlands

With more than 70 miles of trails, ranging from easy to challenging, spread over 8,000 acres, Hudson Highlands State Park, around an hour and a half south of Roscoe, offers plenty of opportunity for activities with a scenic mountainous backdrop. Campers can spend the night at Fahnestock State Park on the eastern side of the Hudson Highlands.

Big Indian Wilderness

Covering 33,500 acres around an hour northeast of Roscoe, the Big Indian Wilderness Area is home to the longest (30 miles) stretch of trail through uninterrupted virgin forest in the Catskills. There are five lean-tos located trailside throughout the area, as well as other designated campsites. Primitive camping is also allowed.

With its promise of long, sunny days ideal for enjoying the great outdoors, summer is the most popular time of year to visit Roscoe and the Catskills. However, the season can bring crowded trails and booked-up campsites. September and October are also popular with visitors arriving to see fall foliage. Winters have the appeal of being relatively crowd-free and offer skiing and snowshoeing.