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The best camping in Upstate New York

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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% (1.8K) 2,270 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Upstate New York

Red Fox Meadow Campsite

1. Red Fox Meadow Campsite

95%
(298)
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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Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie

2. Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie

98%
(43)
Tupper Lake, NY · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located on a 3,769 acre property with a private, mile-long lake, miles of hiking trails, and endless opportunity for outdoor adventure—Camp Mountaineer is one of the Adirondack’s best-kept secrets. Located at the historic Massawepie Scout Camps in Piercefield, NY, Mountaineer can serve as your vacation spot, home away from home, or gateway to Adirondack exploration. Camp Mountaineer is located at Massawepie Scout Camps, 65 Massawepie Road in Piercefield, NY - just west of Tupper Lake. The campground features a variety of camping options to suit your group’s needs—cabins, RV sites, tent sites, and group campsites are all available. Various amenities are provided to make your stay even more enjoyable. Situated in the North Central Adirondacks, Camp Mountaineer provides an opportunity for great on-site outdoor recreation as well as a jumping off point to adventures throughout the Adirondack Park. The facilities and services available at Camp Mountaineer make this a great choice for your family or groups’ adventure. Camp Mountaineer is owned and operated by the Seneca Waterways Council, Boy Scouts of America headquartered in Rochester, NY. First opened as a Scout camp in 1953, Mountaineer now serves as a campground equipped to suit your group’s needs. Any group can make a reservation. Our 2026 Rental Season runs July 2 -August 7
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BeaverWood Farm (no children)

3. BeaverWood Farm (no children)

99%
(1047)
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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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%
(83)
State park in New York · 708 sites
Escape the hustle of NYC with a retreat to the expansive Catskills.
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MSC Alumni Weekend at Mountaineer

6. MSC Alumni Weekend at Mountaineer

Tupper Lake, NY · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Massawepie Alumni Weekend August 7–9, 2026 Join fellow Massawepie Alumni for a relaxed and fun-filled Alumni Weekend this summer! Whether you’re returning after a few years, a few decades, or a few weeks this is the perfect opportunity to revisit Massawepie and make new memories. Event Details ● Alumni Weekend will be based in Camp Mountaineer. ● Guests are welcome to arrive for the weekend on Friday anytime after 2:00 pm. ● All 3 meals will be provided Saturday - a cold continental breakfast (cereal, milk, fruit, danish), a bagged lunch (sandwich, chips, fruit, dessert), and a cookout dinner (hot dogs, hamburgers, assorted salads, desserts). ● A cold continental breakfast (cereal, milk, fruit, danish) will be provided on Sunday. ● A variety of activities will be offered/available though the vibe of the weekend is relaxed and laid back! ● Guests will need to check out on Sunday by 12:00 pm. Activities ● Camp tours will be offered throughout the weekend. ● The Mountaineer Waterfront will be open to swim and boat at your own risk. ● A friendly cornhole tournament will be held late in the afternoon on Saturday. ● Saturday night will showcase a classic campfire complete with s’mores! Accommodations ● Guests can reserve a dispersed camping spot, a cabin or an RV site. ● Toilets and showers are accessible to all in nearby shower houses. Note - Mountaineer’s Family Camp rules apply to the Alumni Weekend including no alcohol on the premises. Whether you want to relax by the water, reconnect with old friends, or explore camp again, Alumni Weekend is all about community, nostalgia, and fun. We can’t wait to welcome you back to Massawepie! Located on a 3,769 acre property with a private, mile-long lake, miles of hiking trails, and endless opportunity for outdoor adventure—Camp Mountaineer is one of the Adirondack’s best-kept secrets. Located at the historic Massawepie Scout Camps in.
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Gunx Camping On A Horse Farm!

7. Gunx Camping On A Horse Farm!

96%
(495)
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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Waterfall Creek

8. Waterfall Creek

99%
(497)
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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Magic Forest Farm

9. Magic Forest Farm

97%
(816)
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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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.
Pets
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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Pooh’s Corner

14. Pooh’s Corner

100%
(745)
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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Waterfall Sanctuary & Quiet Retreat

15. Waterfall Sanctuary & Quiet Retreat

96%
(287)
Middleburgh, NY · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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 extraordinary spots on earth that make you feel like you’re in another world. The sites aren’t suitable for parties or loud groups. 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.
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Taliaferro Farms

16. Taliaferro Farms

97%
(160)
New Paltz, NY · 2 sites
Learn more about this land: Welcome to Taliaferro Farms! Come bring your pets! We have several tent sites available to choose from. 4WD Is recommended is access the sites. Inquire with us if you have any additional questions.  We are a small vegetable farm based in upstate NY. The farm is located right next to the rail trail creating a short scenic walk to our small town New Paltz that has many food, arts, and outdoorsy attractions.  If you're just here to stay the night on the farm get ready to see one of the most beautiful views including a mountain ridge, open sky, and fireflies.
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Wahl Dairy Farm. Hilltop Campsite

17. Wahl Dairy Farm. Hilltop Campsite

96%
(177)
Callicoon, NY · 35 sites · Tents, RVs
Wahl Dairy Farm has been a family run and owned small farm since 1921 when August Wahl moved their family to Callicoon. August was a butcher by trade, and the farm started as a family homestead, raising their own chickens and cows with the help of a few horses and of course August's father who was very handy and could make axe handles and wooden wheel spokes. The Wahl homestead became Wahl Dairy Farm in the 1940s when August started selling milk, two or four cans at a time, to the creamery. August's son, Vernon, took over the business and built it up; at one point about 100 cows were being milked! Vernon's son Ross took over the farm in 1995 and diversified it. Ross regularly raises chickens and pigs and grows pumpkins, in addition to the 40 or so milking cows currently on the farm (there are also calves and heifers). The farm is about 200 acres in total, including 15 acres of woods, 15 acres of "hunting" land (deer and rabbits roam free in the scrub), and close to 150 acres in production with pasture and hay. We never feed corn silage! We believe the corn gives the milk a more sour taste (you are what you eat!). We're proud that we've always been in grassland and committed to raising a mostly grass fed dairy herd, a quality not found in many diary farms today. We're excited to share this place with you! In addition there is excellent cell phone service on the farm! Great for digital nomads and everyone who needs to stay connected. The site is the second highest point in Sullivan County. Some of the most beautiful views in New York State! Learn more about this land: Rustic camping on our beautiful farm. Quiet, wooded space -- away from the rat race. A true country escape! Pitch your tent near the treeline. You can walk through the open fields, take in the view, watch the sunset and stargaze. 20 minutes to Bethel Woods!
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Potable water
Transparent Sands, Diamond Point

18. Transparent Sands, Diamond Point

99%
(436)
Warrensburg, NY · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Renovated 1800’s camp on 10 acres with 1000 ft of river front offering 4 quiet sites to a limited number of campers.
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TainoWoods Fairy Magical Sweet Land

19. TainoWoods Fairy Magical Sweet Land

98%
(371)
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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Burr Oaks Forest secluded campsites

20. Burr Oaks Forest secluded campsites

99%
(315)
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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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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. 

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

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.

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

Top national parks and forests in and near Upstate New York