Most wildfires are preventable. Learn to be fire safe
97% (1.8K) • 2,272 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Upstate New York
BeaverWood Farm (no children)
1. BeaverWood Farm (no children)
99%
(1044)
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Tilden Hill Farm
2. Tilden Hill Farm
99%
(1210)
Vernon, NY · 24 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"
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Mountaineer Campground @Massawepie
3. 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
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
MSC Alumni Weekend at Mountaineer
6. MSC Alumni Weekend at Mountaineer
Tupper Lake, NY · 24 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.
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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Red Fox Meadow Campsite
7. Red Fox Meadow Campsite
95%
(293)
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!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Gunx Camping On A Horse Farm!
8. Gunx Camping On A Horse Farm!
96%
(492)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Quarry
14. The Quarry
98%
(200)
West Falls, NY · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Property with a limited number of sites with power however plenty of tent camping and self contained camping.
The property was a recreational area with 88 camping sites. It is now a personal entertainment venue. On the property is a bath house with 4 warm showers and two toilets, men’s and woman’s.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Green Heron
15. The Green Heron
99%
(301)
Ithaca, NY · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
My property is about 70 acres of wildflower meadows, ponds, organic grain farm and forest located about 10 minutes northwest of Ithaca and 20 min from Finger Lakes wine trails. Enjoy walking along the dirt road and mown trails throughout the property, wild raspberry and blackberry picking, bird and wildlife watching and some incredible sunsets! The campsites are located well off the main road for privacy and seclusion. A convenience store and gas station are located about a mile down the road. This is a peaceful and beautiful place to stay.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
TainoWoods Fairy Magical Sweet Land
16. TainoWoods Fairy Magical Sweet Land
98%
(370)
Harris, NY · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Taíno 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 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, 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pooh’s Corner
17. Pooh’s Corner
100%
(738)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Waterfall Sanctuary & Quiet Retreat
18. Waterfall Sanctuary & Quiet Retreat
96%
(286)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Wyomanock Farm
19. Wyomanock Farm
97%
(864)
Stephentown, NY · 346 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
For July 4th weekend, and Labor Day weekend drive-up sites are a 2 night minimum. In the off season starting after Thanksgiving through April, there is no water or toilet or shower facilities available. The solar shower and water lines may be shut off any time in October if freezing conditions prevail. Please check with us.
Our 75 acres is a wonderful, diverse mix of habitat, harmoniously integrated with our small farm. This land was the homestead of the very first non native settler of the area, John Wiley, in 1787. Before that, it was the land of the Mahican native Americans. They named it "valley of the butternut trees", or Wyomanock.
The Wyomanock Creek is the backbone of this little valley. Beaver have dammed the creek at several points to create ponds and other wetland features that support a diversity of wildlife including otter, moose and a myriad of birds, from osprey to herons. This sanctuary is host to many uncommon native plants and plant communities. We would love to share it with you!
Your host, Thom, invites you to property to explore 75 acres of meadows, woods and water. Choose one of several sites either in the woods or open areas. You are also free to use our outdoor solar shower or take a dip in the cold pond or artesian spring fed pool.
Our location is convenient to the Berkshire Mountains, state parks, hiking and other attractions, including Ramble Wild tree to tree adventures and Jiminy Peak. There are a few miles of rail trail access just down the road.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Waterfall Creek
20. Waterfall Creek
99%
(494)
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Garrett
3 days ago
20 ft campervan
This site had a great view of a small log cabin on the edge of a pond and was right next to the goats and cattle which came by to check us out as we moved in.
Not that there is a bad site at this campground! They are all level, new gravel, a fire ring and utilities if needed. The whole campground and farm are a wonderful experience.
See more
Natalia
6 days ago
Tent
Loved the farm. Goats were adorable. View from our site was so calming . We explored the forest trails, should be fun to ride there on a bike. Evening walk thrue the field was pure magic, with all those fireflies sparkling in the grass.
See more
A
Ali
6 days ago
Tent
With pets
What a great spot! The Apple Grove was so peaceful and being right next to the trail to the waterfall was amazing! It is a quite steep descent to the bottom, but so worth it! Loved this campsite!
See more
A
Annette
6 days ago
With pets
My boyfriend and I had a great stay with our golden doodle. Cabin Esther was perfect and close to the water and bathroom/shower. It was so quiet and peaceful. We felt a warm welcome right away from the staff. Would recommend to anyone.
See more
K
Kevin
6 days ago
Weekend Trip to Waterfall Sanctuary & Quiet Retreat
Extremely private, amazing proximity to one of the best waterfalls I’ve swam at in recent memory, really special place. We did not see the host nor did we see those staying at the other camp site.
See more
Dudley
1 week ago
30 ft travel trailer
With pets
This is my second stay, they've made so many improvements in only a year! Everything was lovely, well taken care of, you can tell the hosts really are serious about providing a wonderful place to stay.
See more
Susan
1 week ago
27 ft Class C
I forgot to mention in my last review that I bought some filet mignon at the farm Market, and we grilled them the next night. They were awesome, tender, and delicious.
See more
J
Jerry
1 week ago
25 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very large site. Level pad. This is by far the best rv camp we've stayed at. It's fairly new and well groomed. I'm reluctant to gush how great it is because once it is well known it will be hard to get reservations. :)
See more
Stephy
1 week ago
21 ft travel trailer
This is our third time back at Tilden Hill, with two more booked! The hosts are very accommodating and helpful. We love the fishing and seeing the cows graze. The goats are a great addition, we loved visiting and petting them. This time we walked some of the trails and had a deer cross our path which was a highlight. This is a great place to experience nature and enjoy the outdoors
See more
A
Anna
1 week ago
Tent
Group trip
Ken’s land was real nice, although it was sad to see the market was closed (only firewood available in entryway) despite the “always open” sign. I also was disappointed to see that the small lakes on the property were not swimmable, however I am unsure if this was ever advertised otherwise. Still, a gorgeous spot– We booked a lean-to right by the water and had a nice time, even with the frogs croaking at night. The goats were by far the best part of the stay; Marty and the gang are such a cute little rascals! I love that you are welcome to spend time with them freely, as long as you do not feed them of course. 🐐
See more
J
Jennifer
1 week ago
Tent
With kids
We stayed over on our roadtrip home after visiting family. Beautiful little spot tucked just a little ways into the woods. Short walk to portable water. Bit of an uphill walk to bathroom with showers, but they were clean and nice. Porta-potties available closer. Lots of fun hiking/mountain biking trails my kids enjoyed exploring. I would recommend. Friendly and helpful host.
See moreD
Dan
1 week ago
25 ft Class C
With pets
Quiet and Relaxing again. Bought some of the pork chops from the market and cooked the on my black stone and came out great.
See moreA
Andrea
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
Very scenic and relaxing experience! Site was clean and the host was friendly and welcoming
See more
E
Earl
1 week ago
41 ft Class A
Was there for a wedding and campsite Was close to all the places I had to go to easy site to get in and out of great power and water very happy with site
See moreE
Earl
2 weeks ago
41 ft Class A
Easy in Easy out great location close to most things I have to do
See moreS
Samuel
2 weeks ago
Tent
Amazing waterfalls, would book just for that, very cute and quiet, perfect
See moreJ
Jay
2 weeks ago
36 ft travel trailer
Safe and Central location to everything we need. There is 4 sites with full hookups that are in great shape. Very Level spots! Great water pressure! Pet friendly! Quiet to be in near city. I will definitely pick this spot if ever in the area again. Im very particular but this spot checks all the boxes for me. Have a great day and thank you for your hospitality!
See moreP
Pauline
2 weeks ago
30 ft travel trailer
With pets
Beautiful property, well maintained. Great, easy hiking trails. And, the baby goats! Our full hookup site was spacious and easy in/out. The owner, Ken, even stopped by to make sure everything was alright.
See more
Derek
2 weeks ago
25 ft travel trailer
With pets
Absolutely a beautiful place to relax and spend a few days. Highly recommend forgoing full hookup and enjoying the lake view with water and electric at site l. Best spot on the farm.
See more
J
Jen
2 weeks ago
With pets
We loved staying on the property. The cabin was so cozy for me and my dog. Even though it rained the first night, we had plenty to do and it was peaceful having the windows open to hear the water falling on the roof and near the creek. Having the entire property to ourselves made me mini retreat even more special. The waterfall was a very short hike and we were able to sit by it and in it. We saw hundreds of fireflies the night before we left. We would definitely stay here.
See moreUpstate 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.
