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The best camping in Upstate New York

Name: Upstate New York
Address: Upstate New York
Rating: 4.8315

The rural playground of New Yorkers, Upstate New York packs in four seasons of postcard-ready backdrops. Summer vacay? Drive your RV up to the Finger Lakes to lounge by sandy lakeside beaches. Fall camping trip? Hit the hiking trails of the Catskills or enjoy leaf-peeping to your heart's content at more than 150 state and national park sites. Winter getaway? Grab your skis and snowshoes and escape to the Adirondacks. Campers have just as many options, whether you prefer backcountry camping in the wilderness, a cozy log cabin, or an Insta-worthy glampsite. Just make sure to book ahead, especially from June through August.

97% (1.9K) • 2,283 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Upstate New York

BeaverWood Farm (no children)

1. BeaverWood Farm (no children)

99%

(1087)

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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Red Fox Meadow Campsite

2. Red Fox Meadow Campsite

95%

(323)

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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Gunx Camping On A Horse Farm!

3. Gunx Camping On A Horse Farm!

96%

(509)

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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Adirondack State Park

4. Adirondack State Park

96%

(148)

State park in New York · 5193 sites

The Adirondacks lounge across a million acres only a 4-hour drive from NYC.

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Catskill State Park

5. 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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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Saranac Lake River Camp

6. Saranac Lake River Camp

100%

(17)

Saranac Lake, NY · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Saranac Lake River Camp! Bring your canoes, kayaks, bikes etc? Escape to a scenic, waterfront getaway right on the beautiful Saranac River. Whether you are looking to relax by the water or explore the local area, this spot offers the perfect balance of nature and convenience. The Space Camper-Friendly: The spacious campsite comfortably accommodates campers and RVs up to 34 feet in length. Prime Waterfront Location: Step right outside your door to enjoy direct access to the river. Explore the Area Step into History: Take a short, scenic walk or bike ride into Historic Downtown Saranac Lake to enjoy local shops, dining, and culture. Paddle the River: Launch your canoe or kayak right from the camp! Paddle upstream to head straight into town, or go downstream to explore the peaceful winding riverways.

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TainoWoods Fairy Magical Sweet Land

7. TainoWoods Fairy Magical Sweet Land

98%

(389)

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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Tilden Hill Farm

8. Tilden Hill Farm

99%

(1257)

Vernon, NY · 22 sites · Tents, RVs

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. There are 2 bath houses on the campground with hot showers and toilets. All sites include a fire pit and picnic table. We have 10 full hook up sites (water/electric/sewer) and 9 sites with water and electric. There is a dump station and fire wood available to all for a fee. Once settled in, take a meandering walk through our 12 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"

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Full hookups

Pooh’s Corner

9. Pooh’s Corner

100%

(772)

Watkins Glen, NY · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

WELCOME to Pooh's Corner- Thank you Hipcamp and all of the beautiful people whom we have the pleasure of hosting at Pooh’s Corner! It’s a new year, a new season of camping, and another opportunity to camp with us. 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.

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Watkins Glen State Park

10. Watkins Glen State Park

93%

(35)

State park in New York · 293 sites

Iconic Finger Lakes park with 19 waterfalls and dramatic gorges.

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Allegany State Park

11. Allegany State Park

95%

(22)

State park in New York · 625 sites

Natural history meets lakefront fun at this Western New York state park.

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Fair Haven Beach State Park

12. Fair Haven Beach State Park

95%

(11)

State park in New York · 214 sites

Fair Haven isn't an ocean beach, but it may as well be during the summer months.

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Buttermilk Falls State Park

13. Buttermilk Falls State Park

100%

(12)

State park in New York · 51 sites

Imagine 600 feet of water cascading gently into a shallow pool. Welcome to Buttermilk Falls.

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Waterfall Creek

14. Waterfall Creek

99%

(531)

Millport, NY · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This is a beautiful piece of property located in the heart of the Finger Lakes and Wine Country of NY. It features a stunning spring fed waterfall and nice forest land. Very close to town but also very secluded and private. Great place to unwind and relax from our everyday lives. It is situated however in a gully next to a creek and waterfall so it is susceptible to heavy rains. It is recommended to at least have an AWD vehicle if rainy. I can usually help campers with getting to the site in my side X side if you need to park up at the pasture. Please order enough wood initially as I have found I spend a lot of time delivering extra wood to campers. It seems as if you will typically go through 2 bundles per night on average. Also I supply a contractor size garbage bag to you if you choose garbage removal. It is also a good idea to text me when you have a solid ETA so I can be here to take you to the site. I want to mention that the two sites closest to the waterfall are a slight hike in and can only accommodate up to 4 person tents so if a bigger group or vehicle camping you will be placed at another site. Hope to see you soon. Ken

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Peace And Quiet in the Catskills

15. Peace And Quiet in the Catskills

99%

(59)

Catskill, NY · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Quiet place in the Catskills. Great place for wildlife viewing, Swimming and fishing in Green Lake and select locations and along the Kaaterskill Creek. Sites are located 15 minutes to Catskill Village, 20 minutes from City of Hudson, 25 minutes from Tannersville / Hunter and 30 minutes from Woodstock. There are short trails on our property for walking and miles of hiking trails in the Catskill Park. We have 3 sites. 2 for a tent and one site for a travel trailer less than 24' or a tent. Spaces not within view of each other. Full 7 Gallon water jug provided for washing up and rinsing dishes, no electric but I can top up your batteries for a small fee with my generator. Basically dry camping with fire ring and picnic table and 7 Gallon water jug. Please keep pets on a leash and pick up after them.

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The 1772 Lefevre Homestead

16. The 1772 Lefevre Homestead

95%

(133)

Gardiner, NY · 1 site · Tent, RV

This property was once a working apple orchard. Over regulation made it very difficult to manage so we let it lie foul for years. Then we let a fellow farmer use it to graze his cattle. Now our children has taking it over and are raising beef cattle on the property. Our campsite lies on the beautiful two and a half century old LeFevre family farmstead with rich history and stunning views of the Shawangunk Mountain ridge. The property is on a 40-acre old apple orchard that is super private and filled with dramatic views and spectacular sunsets. Wake up in your tent to the sounds of birds chirping, roasters crowing and cows just close enough but just far enough way. On occasion there may be a person driving by to tend to the cattle.

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Picnic table

Burr Oaks Forest secluded campsites

17. Burr Oaks Forest secluded campsites

99%

(335)

Big Indian, NY · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging

Secluded “Hike In” Campsites in the center of the Catskill Forest Preserve. Easy access to State lands, West Branch of Neversink River and many hiking trails. Mountain Views, Clear Night Skies, Pond, Spring Fed Mountain Brooks, Property Hikes, Gardens, Chickens and more. Eggs, fruits and vegetables available in season. Extras include eggs, firewood, tent rental, canopy shelters and Solo stoves. Please add extras at time of booking to insure availability and we will set them up on the site you chose before you arrive.

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Slateville Farm Secluded Camps

18. Slateville Farm Secluded Camps

100%

(442)

Granville, NY · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

NEWS!!! Seasoned cut and stacked firewood is at site in new woodsheds. Unlimited use is included for each booking for 2026, not an extra/add-on! The nightly rate has not been increased. 2 Night Minimum Weekends and 3 is required for Holiday Weekends. Extremely Private Sites ~ Outdoor Private Hot Shower, Flush Toilet, Sinks Available at Farm Stand. Pet Friendly. NEW - 2026 POLICIES - MUST READ BEFORE BOOKING Quarry closes at dusk. No late night check ins past 10pm FIRM Maintain respect our other campers by keeping voices and dogs quiet past 10PM as sound carries in the still of the night. Communicating your updated ETA to Heather is necessary for ALL Vehicles. IMPORTANT - Do not guess where you are going or where our driveway is, you must familiarize yourself with your chosen route and ONLY enter our Slateville Farm driveway. Never under any circumstance drive on someone else’s property, if you are unsure, go back to town in Granville and reset your GPS or call Heather. Sweeping pastoral hillsides mixed with densely wooded private acres make our camps unique, each one offering a different experience. A developed network of our own marked trails for exploring, our private red slate swimming quarry with docks and seating, and catch release fishing at 2 ponds are a few things to enjoy here. Slate Valley Trails and Merck Forest are close by. Places to picnic, enjoy the sunset, and idle are a plenty. Our farm stand is stocked with seasonal produce, jams, eggs, and bagged ice. Spring water is available. Excellent locally burgers, steaks, chicken and more are available. OAK - Pastoral with expansive views, Extremely Private, Steep Drive OWL - Wooded, An original site Guest Favorite, walk to quarry PINES - Densely Wooded, Hilltop, Most Remote, Viking Chairs RIDGELINE - Pastoral, Sunset Views, Covered Pergola with Pit ADK Chairs, Great for Groups, Large RVS HOPS - ADK Chairs, Combination Site Wooded/Open, Suitable for 1 RV, Graveled, May combine with Ridgeline for groups QUARRY - Waterside, Outhouse, firepit, and large picnic table. On the opposite side of the Quarry is the swimming entrance for our visiting campers. We also have a 40 acre parcel with a bespoke lookout tower and modern cabin that is incredible. Search for "The Slateville Retreat"

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DINO RV

19. DINO RV

94%

(49)

Buffalo, NY · 4 sites

Traveling through Western New York and need a convenient overnight stop? Whether you’re heading to a Buffalo Bills game or just passing through, DINO RV Campground has the perfect spot for you. Our stone parking lot offers electric hookups (50 Amp, 30 Amp, and 120 Volt service), along with water and sewer connections — a simple, reliable setup for short-term stays. Location Conveniently situated in Cheektowaga, just minutes from downtown Buffalo, our campground puts you close to Western New York’s top attractions, including Niagara Falls, Ellicottville, and Buffalo’s vibrant cultural and dining scene. What to Expect This is a basic stopover designed for travelers who value ease and location over amenities. There are no additional facilities or scenic features, making it ideal for a one- or two-night stay to rest and recharge before your next adventure. Explore More From breathtaking natural wonders to city nightlife, our location serves as a gateway to Niagara Falls, Buffalo’s iconic wings, and Western New York’s outdoor adventures. Book your stay today and enjoy a practical, welcoming stop on your journey! PARKING NOTE: We have ample parking at all locations. Extra vehicles can be parked anywhere in the whole gravel camping area as long as they do obstruct access to the other sites!

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Full hookups

Dickensen Farm: Cabins & Camping

20. Dickensen Farm: Cabins & Camping

98%

(169)

Cambridge, NY · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Big Red Alpacas and Big Red Sustainables reside here at Dickensen Road in beautiful Cambridge NY close to both the Battenkill and Saratoga Springs. To help with the sustainability factor, we allow folks to camp on our property so they too can enjoy the woods, pastures, wild animals and farm animals, we all enjoy. Hence, we launched "Dickensen Farm: Cabins and Camping." The alpacas are inquisitive and peaceful animals, they are beautiful and provide wonderfully warm fashionable products as well. Please ask us about our seasonal products, including: Farm fresh, organically raised, free range chicken eggs Frozen meat birds Maple syrup Beautiful alpaca products Honey from our bees Dry, seasoned firewood for your camp sites Handmade Amish soaps However, you are not compelled to buy anything! If you are looking for a farmy or woodsy experience, we have BOTH at "Dickensen Farm: Cabins and Camping!"

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Electrical hookup

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Suhaib

3 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tilden Hill Farm

This campsite was amazing. Ken was very kind and helpful. Will be back soon

Jen

3 days ago

Weekend Trip to McCormick Farms Base Camp

Emily’s place was awesome! It was quiet, beautifully maintained and scenic with a corn field growing across the gravel road. The lean-to was brilliant! So enjoyed sitting and gazing out at the farm. The outhouse was clean and so well laid out. Easy entrance to Letchworth Park. Truly a stellar base camp! Highly recommend!

Amy

3 days ago

14 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tilden Hill Farm

This was our first trip in our new travel trailer and using hipcamp. The sites were large, all amenities worked as expected, bathrooms clean, and camp store has just about everything you might need to make a few meals. Ken stopped by to say Hi and was always around - just in case - but all the other campers were friendly but kept to themselves too. The sites without sewer are quieter as they’re a bit further from the highways, but this isn’t a complaint just observation. We are considering when our next stay will be; absolutely coming back!

Joe

3 days ago

25 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Tilden Hill Farm

Our stay was amazing. It was quiet, beautiful handy to Green Lake State Park. Would definitely stay there again and Ken our host was helpful, friendly and a prefect host. Highly recommend

Nicole

3 days ago

35 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Tilden Hill Farm

Top notch place to camp!!! Loved the goats!! Kids used kayak and canoe and had a blast!! So clean and peaceful!!!! 10 out of 10 recommend!!

Yejun

3 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Big Indian Wilderness Paradise

One of the most beautiful camping spots we’ve ever stayed at! The clean, flowing Esopus Creek with the mountains in the background was truly special. The grounds were very well-kept, and you can really see how thoughtful and camper-friendly the hosts are in every detail. They were so kind and welcoming, and we’d absolutely love to come back!

Richard

6 days ago

21 ft travel trailer

1 night at Tilden Hill Farm

Great campground. Very clean with all amenities you need. Would return for sure.

Kate

6 days ago

10 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Saranac Lake River Camp

Nice space. Michael is a great guy and makes this an easy destination. Road noise from across river wasn't too bad except for the one night of drag races. It didn't last long. Thanks Michael.

6 days ago

Tent

2 nights at Big Indian Wilderness Paradise

Kind hosts, and a beautiful campsite. Can’t ask for better! Will be back again

sun beams in the early morning illuminating the campsite

6 days ago

With kids

3 nights at Big Indian Wilderness Paradise

John & AC are gracious hosts and their land is beautiful. It was the perfect spot for my kids and I. We had everything we needed. Thank you for your hospitality! We hope to return again next year!

Samantha

1 week ago

Tent

4 nights at Saranac Lake River Camp

I had a great time at the Saranac River campsites. Mike was a wonderful host! The campsites were clean, easy to find and some firewood was even provided to get us started. The campsites are a short walk to town for the adventurous which is a huge plus. The sites are close together but certainly not on top of each other and all campers were polite abs respectful. Will definitely visit again!!

Heather

1 week ago

16 ft car

1 night at Saranac Lake River Camp

We car camped at his RV spot ‘Stone Bench’. Michael was very quick to respond and met us right at our site. He was lovely and generously started a fire for us prior to our arrival, which was so amazing to pull up to after a long day of driving. Staying right next to the river was so beautiful to hear all the frogs and crickets chirping. The highway is right next to the river but the noise was actually minimal. We slept very soundly and had no issues.

Amber

1 week ago

1 night at McCormick Farms Base Camp

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had such an amazing camping experience at McCormick Base Camp! The property was beautiful, peaceful, and the perfect place to unplug and enjoy time together. Everything was so welcoming and well cared for, and we truly didn’t want to leave! We’re already looking forward to coming back. Highly recommend McCormick Base Camp for anyone looking for a wonderful camping getaway! ❤️🏕️

Kandy

1 week ago

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Tilden Hill Farm

Excellent spot near small pond. Pull thru site and close to bathrooms and little store but yet much personal space to enjoy. I will be back next yr. Watched the geese stop thru on their migration trail. Great trails too!

Richard

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tilden Hill Farm

Second time camping in this spot -- enjoyed it a lot. Found a clearing perfect for pitching an extra tarp, and some trees supporting a hammock. Unfortunately did not make it to see the goats this time, but we have something to look forward to next time.

Taylor

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tilden Hill Farm

Great camping location! Clean bathrooms and lots of trails to explore.

Sarah

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Peace And Quiet in the Catskills

We had such a perfect weekend staying on James's land, visiting a nearby creek and taking a couple of James's suggestions for Greens Lake and ice cream by the water on Bridge St, which were great. The set up was wonderful with plenty of flat space for our tent, and the fire pit and picnic table within a beautiful wooded area of large trees. The sounds of crickets, frogs, cicadas, and owls was so amazing. The outhouse was clean and well taken care of. James was really welcoming and nice, and funny too! We didn't chat for too long but we would have enjoyed more conversation with him, especially to learn more about the trees and mushrooms on the property. Next time! Highly recommend this lovely spot.

Markus

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Big Indian Wilderness Paradise

John & AC are the best hosts with the best campsite, hence look nowhere else. Thanks.

Caleb

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at Saranac Lake River Camp

Site was as described. Minimal amenities, just a fire ring and porta potty. The soft sand in the site made for comfortable sleeping but tended to get everywhere. If you're just looking for a spot to set up a tent and crash you can't go wrong here.

Sam

1 week ago

16 ft car

2 nights at Saranac Lake River Camp

Great place stayed two night and had a great time. The town had a ton of great stuff to do as well. Host was super helpful would definitely come back.

Upstate New York camping guide

Where to go

Hudson Valley & the Catskills

Close enough to NYC for a weekend break, head to the Hudson Valley to hop between Hudson River towns, picturesque vineyards, and farm-to-table restaurants. There’s great camping and hiking at Harriman State Park and Bear Mountain State Park, while Hudson River Islands State Park has kayak-in tent sites reachable only by water. Or head to the hills to explore the forest trails and wilderness areas of the Catskills Mountains.

The Adirondacks

With more than 6 million acres of rugged mountains, untamed forests, and glittering lakes, the Adirondacks is New York state’s largest park and home to its highest peaks. There are miles of hiking trails, canoe trails, and scenic byways to explore, plus dozens of campgrounds to choose from. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, seek out a secluded spot in the backcountry to pitch your tent—dispersed camping is permitted on state land in the area.

Central New York & Thousand Islands

Woodlands, lakes, and more than a few waterfalls dot the landscapes of central New York. In summer, head to the lakeside beaches at Green Lakes State Park, Gilbert Lake State Park, or Bowman Lake State Park, all of which have popular family campgrounds. To the north, the Thousand Islands region is a favorite for coastal campers with its fairy-tale castles, island campsites, and Great Lakes Seaway Trail.

Finger Lakes

With 11 lakes, a dozen state parks, and three renowned wine trails, you won’t get bored in the Finger Lakes. Check out waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park and Buttermilk Falls State Park, fish for trout and salmon at Keuka Lake State Park, or lounge along white-sand beaches at Fair Haven Beach State Park.

Western New York

Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park is a must for hikers and leaf-peepers visiting western New York, along with nearby Allegany State Park. If you prefer coastal camping, you’ll find RV parks and campgrounds dotted along the shores of both Lake Erie to the west and Lake Ontario to the north. Or perhaps you’re heading to Niagara Falls, in which case you should book a campsite, cabin, or yurt at Four Mile Creek State Park, a short drive from the iconic falls.

Top camping destinations around Upstate New York

Adirondack State Park

249 campgrounds

Catskill State Park

357 campgrounds

Watkins Glen State Park

200 campgrounds

Letchworth State Park

195 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular activities in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York?

In the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York, you can check out waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park and Buttermilk Falls State Park, fish for trout and salmon at Keuka Lake State Park, or lounge along white-sand beaches at Fair Haven Beach State Park.

What are some attractions in the Hudson Valley region of Upstate New York?

In the Hudson Valley region of Upstate New York, you can hop between Hudson River towns, picturesque vineyards, and farm-to-table restaurants. There’s great camping and hiking at Harriman State Park and Bear Mountain State Park, while Hudson River Islands State Park has kayak-in tent sites reachable only by water. Or head to the hills to explore the forest trails and wilderness areas of the Catskills Mountains.

Where can I go camping in Upstate New York?

In Upstate New York, you can drive your RV up to the Finger Lakes to lounge by sandy lakeside beaches, hit the hiking trails of the Catskills, or enjoy leaf-peeping at more than 150 state and national park sites. You can also explore different options for camping near Upstate New York on Hipcamp.