10 Best Campgrounds to Book to See New York’s Scenic Catskills

A backpack of snacks, shelter and a group of friends are all one needs to enjoy camping in the Catskills of New York. Located in southeastern New York State, the Catskill Mountains are 111 miles long and offer vast, lush landscapes perfect for pitching a tent. While there are countless campsites in the New York Catskills, some are obviously better than others.


Whether because of the surrounding landscape or the quality of its trails, there are many factors to consider before choosing a campsite. Many campsites in the Catskills are suitable for families, friends and solo travelers. Check out our top ten New York Catskills campsites that we recommend, and we promise any traveler will find their perfect campground.

10/10 Devil’s Tombstone Campground

Although the name of the campground might sound a bit intimidating, Devil’s Tombstone is actually a classic Catskills campground for beginners and experts alike.

Offering the bare necessities in amenities, Devil’s Tombstone compensates with some of the best hiking trails in the catskills and scenic Notch Lake.

Devil’s Tombstone trails offer some of the highest peaks in all of the Catskills and can completely immerse hikers in the stunning nature of this mountain range.

Some notable trails at this campground include Indian Head, West Kill Range, and Hunter, which is known to have the tallest fire tower in New York. The nearby small town of Hunter is also a Scenic winter destination in New York.

9/10 Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds

Those looking for more modern comforts while enjoying nature can find Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds like a better fit.

Covering 160 acres of wilderness, this campground also has plenty of amenities such as a water hydrant, bathrooms, showers, playgrounds, and a swimming hole. Those who don’t really feel like pitching a tent can even rent cabins here and enjoy Plattekill Creek and koi ponds.

Visitors to Rip Van Winkle often cite that camping here feels like being transported to a different time and place. At Rip Van Winkle, various events are also held throughout the year, including bonfires, races, ice cream parties, and more.

Related: The Catskill Mountain Railroad is one of the most scenic winter rides

8/10 North/South Lake Campground

While this is arguably the most popular campsite in New York’s Catskills, there’s still plenty of room for it to feel secluded.

Boasting endless natural beauty like lakes, mountains galore, and hiking trails for all abilities, North/South Lake Campground also functions as an ideal base camp for exploring the surrounding area.

Discover historic ruins, waterfalls and the nearby town of Tannersville for its restaurants and shops.

For travelers looking catskills adventurethis campground offers equipment rentals including kayaks, canoes, rowboats and pedal boats.

7/10 The old game farm

Rather gamble? Those looking for an extra level of comfort should consider the old game farm. This campsite stands on a large piece of land that was once a zoo for thousands of animals.

Now a glamping site, the Old Game Farm promises seclusion with just four tent sites available on over 200 acres of land.

These large canvas tents are equipped with a memory foam mattress, a fire pit, a picnic table, a wood stove and access to miles of trails and the surrounding nature.

This large campsite is ideal for those looking to bask in nature without having to deal with the usual delicate work of regular camping.

6/10 Treetopia Campground

Those looking for a campsite that has everything to please can turn to the Treetopia campsite. This campsite offers RV parking, personal tent sites, large glamping style canvas tents and quaint cottages for rent.

In addition, Treetopia Campground is synonymous with sustainability and environmentally responsible camping. While staying at this campsite, travelers can practice “Leave No Trace” whenever possible.

In Catskill, New York, this campsite is located around an activity center for all adventurers. Thrill seekers can enjoy tubing, hiking, ziplining, biking and more.

There are even nearby farms open to the public with fresh fruit and baked goods.

5/10 Gatherwild Ranch

Set in the verdant hills of the Hudson Valley, Gatherwild Ranch oscillates between glamping and rustic camping. Visitors can sleep in a bell tent with a queen bed and a personal cedar deck and fire pit.

As a reminder, there is no electricity at this Catskills campsite and solar lights will illuminate the tent at night. Embrace nature with composting toilets, solar showers and an organic vegetable and herb garden.

Travelers can also relax with holistic facials and body massages at Gatherwild Ranch.

4/10 Gather Greene Cabins

Little house lovers unite in Gather Greene Cabins located in the Hudson Valley. Both a luxury retreat and an event venue (perfect for weddings), the Gather Greene Cabins promise all the comforts of a hotel room while being totally secluded.

Rather than opulent resorts in the Catskillsthese small but chic cabins are ideal for laid-back weekends.

Enjoy modern amenities in the middle of the woods. Each cabin includes a picturesque view, outdoor deck, king-size bed, under-bed luggage storage, heating, air conditioning, mini-fridge, closet with large mirror, and hair dryer.

3/10 Fern Valley Eco-Hut

Those who want complete seclusion and privacy should definitely book this Airbnb eco-cabin. Visitors can be completely disconnected from the grid in this Swedish-designed cabin with large windows that make residents feel like they’re sleeping in the trees.

Yet, travelers should be fully aware that this cabin has no running water, no electricity, and no Wi-Fi. As this campsite is on private land, campers can expect peace and quiet. absolute silence.

Related: Here’s What to Know About Haunted Overlook Mountain Hike in the Catskills

2/10 Catskills House Getaway

Another small cabin experience, Getaway House Catskills offers simple comfort with no interruption to Wi-Fi or cell phone reception.

With everything a person could need within 200 square feet, all that’s left to do is relax in the wondrous beauty of New York’s wilderness.

Nearby is the 260-foot Kaaterskill Falls which is the tallest cascading waterfall in New York City and arguably the largest in the state. the most beautiful waterfall.

Also close to this campsite is the Crossroads Brewing Company where anyone can stop and sip a pint of locally brewed beer. Visitors can choose from one- or two-bed cabins in the Eastern or Western Catskills.

1/10 The Outlier Inn Geodome

The Outlier Inn is a tranquil twelve-acre property ninety miles south of New York in the Catskill Mountains. The hostel offers a tranquil and inspiring escape from city life.

It serves as a premier retreat center, workshop/event site, vegetable farm, and recording studio. The lake across the street and the entire property are accessible to Geodôme guests.

There is also a clawfoot tub and outdoor hot showers for those staying at this unique hostel.

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