We turned this Hipcamp stay into an adventure, leaving NYC from Grand Central and catching the Metro North, a bus and a short taxi to the farm.

When we arrvied Bill, Amy and Fin greeted us warmly with a stroll around the property to pet the animals and pick some raspberries, plus a handful of mint to use as a natural insect repellent.
Nestled down a track, the large yurt is fully private and borders lots of trees with large grassy spot to prep food and sit around a campfire.

Over in the yard goats, ducks, highland cows, a miniature horse became our friends when we sat beside the pond in the evening light, drinks in hand.

Aside from being a private and peaceful sanctuary to relax at, Finnegan's Farm is a space to feel closer to the land, learn about permaculture and resourcefulness.

Heading out, Bill dropped us back in the New Milford township and recommended brunch at the Green Granery which was well worth it.

The welcoming hospitality that Bill, Amy & Fin showed us made this stay one to remember - we'll be back!

This brick and stone cabin is nestled down a private driveway in the Catskills and surrounded by trees. You can hear chipmunks and the odd deer rustling in the forest, otherwise, it's a very peaceful escape from New York City.
On arrival we met Eileen who gave us a bottle of wine and fresh eggs from a family farm on arrival and told us the history of Papa's Place.
The cabin comfortably sleeps 3 - 4, with the second bedroom being a pullout single bed that has two tiers.
The kitchen was fully stocked (and so organised!) so you just need to bring food. We cooked over the firepit and had breakfast at the picnic table, spending most of our time outside in the summer heat. I can imagine in winter though how cozy this place would be in the snow with a roaring fire and the generous stack of board games or a movie.
There's trails right on the doorstep for an easy walk including a small path that leads to the lake, trees glittering with tiny heirlooms and ribbons that vistors have placed there to create a space for memories. A short drive away (about 20 min) we went hiking at Mohonk Preserve for some epic views over the Catksills.
Papa's Place was an awesome getaway, very well equiped for relaxation and special because it has a history; memories and stories visible in its decoration and construction.

Dave was such a chilled out, friendly host. We enjoyed pulling our van up under the trees and building a campfire, listening to a chorus of frogs, gators and birds.
The site is spacious and has a sweet setup for gatherings. Hoping to get back down south to stargaze and attend one of Dave's famous Jams.

We pulled off the road after spotting the high rustic barn with arched roof and a little glass entranceway. Heading inside, were welcomed with a single large space with a decked out kitchen, lounge area, and double bed in a sleeping nook. Upstairs is one giant master bedroom with ancient floor boards, a king size bed and a colorful window made from rows of glass bottles.
The owners Susan and Neil are artists, collectors and creators and this comes through in little creative marks throughout the barn. Out the back door, there's a wood stack for summer and a tree with filled with feeders, attracting all sorts of birds. Neil and Sidney the dog take us for a walk in the snow and to visit the other even larger barn housing a stage and more arts and crafts projects.
The drive is a couple of hours from New York City and nestled in the Catskills - while it is on the road, there are lots of hikes, antiques, even a new brewer opening up the road to adventure to. In winter the heatpump makes for a cozy space, it's a great place to rug up and venture out into the snow then return for hot toddys, tunes on the boombox and games.

This is a unique desert oasis created by owners who care. We rolled up in our camper at sunset and picked a spot under a garland of string lights. Cooked dinner the Adobe kitchen and ate around the campfire.
Waking up in the morning to golden light spilling across a magical palette of rock, sand and cacti felt spiritual and calming. Would be fun to visit with a big group.
100% recommend.

Hemlock Falls is an off-the-grid oasis, nestled amongst the trees in the Catskills. A walk through the avenue of trees leads to you your own private site with a large wrap around deck and luxury canvas tent with flowers, books, board games and a huge pillowy bed. Not to forget a BBQ pit and grill, plus a composting toilet and hot shower.
After settling in we took a walk around the land (tons of acres of it!) to a couple of waterfalls, spotting deer and hearing nothing but the birds.
Cooked a delicious meal over the firepit then rain set in for the night and we played board games and drank wine by solar lantern light. Woke up in this glorious treehouse and seriously never wanted to leave!

This is an ideal getaway from New York City; accessible on public transport and tailored to suit any level of camp comfort. You can choose how long you spend hiking in, if you want a covered platform site (complete with kitchen setup!) and can hire a tent if need be. Nestled between trees each site feels secluded but has a decent setup for a few people to sit round the fire. Would definitely would like to come back with a group for a weekend, perhaps in the Fall for the colors!
If you are planning on doing Hike #2 or #3 I would recommend getting a trail map as it is easy to get lost or switch trails, but totally worth it. The hike up to the Mt Beacon Fire Tower is pretty epic, as is the old incline rail track dotted with cool old ruins.