



















When the temperatures rise in summer, New York campers make a beeline for the sandy shores of Long Island. Beach camping experiences abound on the island, both along the Atlantic Coast and the North Shore. Check into one of the coastal RV parks, camp at one of the many country parks, or head to the beachside campgrounds at Hither Hills State Park or Wildwood State Park.
Vineyards and heritage towns dot the banks of the Hudson River, north of NYC, stretching all the way up to the Catskills Mountains. There’s lakeside camping within an hour’s drive of the city at Harriman State Park, kayak-in tent sites at Hudson River Islands State Park, and a popular campground at Bear Mountain State Park. For keen hikers, some of the best camping and glamping is found in the vast Catskill Forest Preserve.
To escape the crowds and explore the wilderness, continue north into the Adirondacks, where the soaring mountains and wild woodlands stretch across more than 6 million acres. Epic hikes, fall foliage views, and idyllic lakes await campers, whether you prefer a hike-in tent site or a cozy log cabin in the woods. Don’t fancy hiking? Try whitewater rafting along the Ausable River, go canoeing between the three Saranac Lakes, or enjoy boating on Lake George.
For tranquil lakeside camping, the Finger Lakes get our vote. Regional highlights include the Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park, the beaches and waterfalls of Buttermilk Falls State Park, and the "Grand Canyon of the East" at Letchworth State Park, but you can also fill your camping trip with wine tasting, farm-to-table restaurants, and lake activities.
More than 65,000 acres of mountains, forest, and lakes make up the vast Allegany State Park, where you can choose from four state campgrounds or book one of the many cabins. Further north, there’s beachside camping along the shores of Lake Ontario, while Four Mile Creek State Park is one of three western New York state parks to offer yurt rentals. An added bonus? It’s within a 15-minute drive of Niagara Falls.
Boondocking, or dispersed camping, is legal in some areas of New York, particularly on public lands managed by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the U.S. Forest Service. The Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserves are popular destinations for boondocking, where you can camp for free at designated sites or at least 150 feet away from water, roads, and trails. Additionally, the Finger Lakes National Forest allows dispersed camping in specific areas. When boondocking, it's essential to follow the Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment.
For more options and information on boondocking in New York, consider visiting Hipcamp.
To go camping in New York, follow these steps:
Remember to always follow safety guidelines and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Happy camping!
Camping costs in New York vary depending on the type of campsite, amenities, and location. Prices can range from $15 per night for a basic tent site in a state park to over $200 per night for a glamping experience or cabin rental. For a variety of options, you can explore Hipcamp's New York camping listings. Keep in mind that public parks and campgrounds may have additional reservation fees or require permits. Always check with the specific campground for the most accurate pricing information.
Yes, camping is legal in New York. The state offers a variety of camping options, including state parks, state forests, national forests, and private campgrounds. You can find tent camping, RV camping, and cabin rentals in various locations across the state. Some popular areas for camping in New York include the Catskill Mountains, the Adirondack Mountains, and the Finger Lakes region. You can explore and book various camping options through Hipcamp.
Yes, you can camp in a New York State Park. New York offers a variety of camping opportunities in its state parks, including tent camping, RV camping, and cabin rentals. Some popular state parks for camping in New York include Letchworth State Park, Adirondack Park, Catskill Park, Allegany State Park, and Taughannock Falls State Park. Campsites and facilities vary by park, so it's essential to check specific park information and availability before planning your trip.