Camping in the Catskills

You have several options for camping in the Catskills, from the most basic primitive camping to state campsites to the luxury of glamping.  We offer an option that's a little different from all others.  Here's everything you need to know about camping in the Catskills.

 

Backcountry or Primitive Camping

Primitive camping is camping in its purest form – no amenities, no technology. Just you, your tent, and the great outdoors.  You can backcountry or primitive camp in State and National parks that offer more privacy and freedom than campsites allow, and best of all, it's free.  The downside when backcountry camping is safety and lack of amenities.  

There are some restrictions campers should be aware of when planning a backcountry trip. The Department for Environmental Conservation (DEC) requires that primitive campsites be 150 feet from water, road, or trail, and if you’re planning on camping for more than three nights you’ll need a special permit. Some primitive sites are more accessible than others.

In the Catskills, primitive camping in the region’s backcountry is an excellent option for those seeking the rugged outdoor experience or hiking long-distance trails such as the Long Path, a 357-mile long-distance hiking trail spanning from northern New Jersey to the Albany, New York area. Primitive camping is widely available throughout the Catskill Park and Catskill Forest Preserve.

Primitive Camping Rules: https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/41282.html

Popular Spots: https://www.visitthecatskills.com/camping

 

Listing of Catskill Park Campsites 

Campgrounds will typically cost about $20-$30/night (+$5 for out-of-state) and are open typically from May 21 until September or October.  Below is a full list of campsites in the Catskills and some useful information taken from the DEC website.  Please see https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7825.html for complete information.  

• Bear Spring Mountain Campground & Day Use Area
• Beaverkill Campground & Day Use Area
• Devil's Tombstone Campground & Day Use Area
• Kenneth L. Wilson Campground & Day Use Area
• Little Pond Campground & Day Use Area
• Mongaup Pond Campground & Day Use Area
• North-South Lake Campground & Day Use Area
• Woodland Valley Campground & Day Use Area

See https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7820.html for schedules for each campsite.

To book or get detailed information:

• Online at newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com.
• By phone: Call Reserve America at 1-800-456-CAMP (1-800-456-2267).

 

Glamping

Sites like Tentrr and Hipcamp offer a wide range of sites that offer even more amenities and privacy than campsites/campgrounds.

 

Camping on Our Land

We offer an option in between having the amenities of campsites and the freedom & privacy of primitive camping.  We provide the security of having someone nearby familiar with the area, with the privacy and freedom of primitive camping.  In fact, we offer more freedom than primitive camping since we own the land.  If you want to cut down a tree for firewood or even start experimenting with building your own shelter, we can work with you and even provide you with tools. 

Please use our contact form at the bottom of our homepage to book or contact us for more information.