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Best Campgrounds in New York

3,525 Reviews
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

New York state parks and recreational areas provide extensive camping options, with popular destinations like Watkins Glen State Park and Letchworth State Park offering tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations. Campgrounds such as HTR Niagara near Grand Island and North-South Lake in the Catskills maintain developed facilities with various hookup levels. Most established campgrounds feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to water, with many sites accommodating both tent and RV camping. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with a few facilities like Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday remaining open year-round.

Seasonal considerations significantly affect campsite availability across New York, with most state parks closing between mid-October and early May. "The sites are very nicely spaced and level. Bathhouses are some of the nicest I've seen. So much to do that's included in the price of the stay," noted one visitor about HTR Niagara Campground. Many campgrounds require reservations, particularly during peak summer months when facilities reach capacity. Weather conditions vary by region, with Adirondack locations experiencing cooler temperatures even in summer months. Cell service can be limited in more remote areas, while facilities near population centers tend to offer better connectivity. Sites with electric hookups are abundant but often fill quickly, especially during holiday weekends.

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with locations along lakes and ponds being particularly sought after. Four Mile Creek State Park and Fish Creek Pond Campground provide direct water access that appeals to families and fishing enthusiasts. Several reviews highlight the quality of bathroom facilities and shower houses as important factors in campground satisfaction. Mixed-use campgrounds serving both tent campers and RV travelers dominate the landscape, with amenities ranging from basic (picnic tables and fire rings) to comprehensive (full hookups, laundry facilities, and camp stores). According to one camper visiting a state park, "Beautiful if you have biting fly repellent... There were so many that you couldn't stand still for 5 seconds." Wildlife encounters, seasonal insect activity, and maintenance of facilities frequently appear in visitor feedback, suggesting that researching recent reviews can help set appropriate expectations for specific campgrounds.

Best Camping Sites in New York (936)

    1. Watkins Glen State Park Campground

    91 Reviews
    Watkins Glen, NY
    Website
    +1 (607) 535-4511

    $20 - $58 / night

    "Watkins Glen boasts one of New York’s most beautiful state parks! I last camped here in 2012 and absolutely loved hiking along the gorges. Also- the camping was next to perfect."

    "Definitely one of the top places to camp and visit in New York, Watkins Glen State Park never disappoints. Each time I come back, I find something new to discover and have a great time doing that."

    2. Letchworth State Park Campground

    80 Reviews
    Perry, NY
    Website
    +1 (585) 493-3600

    $200 / night

    "Letchworth State Park is known as the Grand Canyon of the East and is located in Mt. Morris New York. My husband and I visited regularly when we lived near Rochester, NY."

    "Not technically in the Finger Lakes but still one of the most beautiful parts of Western New York State. Splurge and eat at the Glen Iris Inn! Great for cycling and hiking but no swimming."

    3. Four Mile Creek State Park Campground

    57 Reviews
    Youngstown, NY
    Website
    +1 (716) 745-3802

    $20 - $100 / night

    "The quick walk down to the waterfront was easy and I loved the rocky beach and dips in the refreshing waters of Lake Ontario. There is a camp store on site for ice, firewood, and other supplies."

    "The sites were right next to the bathrooms/showers/laundry. The bathrooms were very clean. The showers had 2 separate privacy shower curtains and a bench to put your things in the shower stall."

    4. North-South Lake Campground

    44 Reviews
    Palenville, NY
    Website
    +1 (518) 589-5058

    $22 - $44 / night

    "Our first campground was in New York Aug 8th. Unfortunately, Debbie was socking New York hard. North South Lake Campground in the Catskills was our camping home."

    "This is a truly beautiful and scenic campground, easily one of the best places we have visited in New York State."

    5. Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday

    44 Reviews
    Wilmington, NY
    Website
    +1 (518) 946-7878

    "Close to hiking trails, Whiteface Mt Parkway & Lake Placid. Nice, helpful staff. It is NOT wheelchair accessible. There are steep steps to the office, no grab bars in the bathrooms."

    "Very large and busy campground, close to Lake Placid and other cool activities to take in. Pros- hot showers, convenient laundromat, you are guided to your site by staff on golf carts."

    6. Green Lakes State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    Kirkville, NY
    Website
    +1 (315) 637-6111

    $20 - $116 / night

    "The lake is a fascinating meromictic lake with clear calcium-rich waters that are not only pristine and beautiful to look at, but also great for swimming and snorkeling as the waters are crystal clear"

    "The sites are nice, some are little close to each other but nice for group camping. A short distance (walk or by car) to the beach. The lake is a little chilly sometimes but very refreshing."

    7. New York City North/Newburgh KOA

    40 Reviews
    Pomona, NY
    +1 (845) 947-2792

    $17 - $20 / night

    "15 dolares la noche para los que viven en el Estado de New York o New York city .. si es fuera del estado son $5 dolares mas!!"

    "Drive-in tent campgrounds. Adequate restroom facilities sprinkled amongst tent sites. Some campsites have raised platforms. All sites have picnic tables and fire ring with flip-top grill."

    8. HTR Niagara Campground

    36 Reviews
    Grand Island, NY
    Website
    +1 (716) 773-7600

    $77 / night

    "This is a campground of several lakeside cabins and mostly RVs, so they were also seldom in use, making them even more accommodating for us during this time of distancing."

    "The staff was very pleasant and knowledgeable, the price was high but not unexpected considering the location. Our site was pleasantly shaded with rubbish bins a short walk away across the road."

    9. Fish Creek Pond Campground

    34 Reviews
    Tupper Lake, NY
    Website
    +1 (518) 891-4560

    $22 - $40 / night

    "Most of the campsites at Fish Creek Pond are along the waterfront, offering easy access to the pond. Some campers even build temporary docks that they leave behind for subsequent campers."

    "Bike path, kayak rentals, close to Lake Placid Olympic center, Wild Center in Tupper Lake"

    10. Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    Fishkill, NY
    Website
    +1 (845) 225-7207

    $17 / night

    "When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot."

    "We were right next to the entrance for hiking trails which was convenient. The facilities are a bit of a walk, but that means it is spread out and there's plenty of room to relax and have fun."

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Recent Reviews in New York

3525 Reviews of 936 New York Campgrounds

  • Rebecca The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2026

    Crane Pond Dispersed Site

    4th of July

    My partner and I went on 4th of July weekend for the first time and was greeted by a man in the parking lot who had been coming there for 40 years. The site was gorgeous with 10 different campsites to choose from. The past reviews are correct with a lifted four wheel drive vehicle being needed for this drive in if you plan on getting paddled boats/kayaks in the water. Our plan was to go in and out to explore but decided to hunker down once we took the road in to avoid driving it multiple times. There are four hike-in camps from the parking lot. All campsites are marked on AllTrails. We stayed on the East side camp, #10, which after setting up and visiting the rest of the sites, had the least views from camp of the water but was the most secluded. Many sites have a privy or a box with a hole and a lid. There were a total of four trucks/jeeps in the lot all weekend and only a few camps being used. The black flies and mosquitos were bad given the time of the year so be prepared if you come during the same time. There are some beautiful trails that connect to the parking lot that lead to other hike-in camps at other small ponds/lakes.

    There are green tags on the trees marked next to the water where the camp sites are. We made the mistake of setting up our tent at a makeshift campsite someone made and found the "no camping" sign after and ended up moving. There are beaver, ducks, and loons living at the pond.

  • Greg S.
    Jul. 8, 2026

    Mills Norrie State Park Campground

    4.7 stars

    Excellent campground! The forest is beautiful, the Hudson River is super close, there are great trails, and the surrounding area is beautiful. Sites are electric only, so make sure your water pump is working and fresh water tank is full. There are spigots for filling and a nice dump station. The player is excellent. I don't think tetn camping here would be great because the tent sites are closer together and there are trains that pass regularly. We couldn't hear the trains in our camper and our site was large and private with great Forest and hammock trees. The mansion tours at Vanderbilt and Mills were awesome!

  • Scott H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 6, 2026

    Shamrock Pines Campground

    Established and welcoming!

    These people know what they are doing. We loved that the campground had its own music at the pool instead of dealing with everyone's individual speakers. The bathrooms were very clean and obviously cleaned every morning. The campground is huge and has great places for bikes or electric golf carts! They had great music and the other campers were very nice and respectful people. We stayed here as home base to visit Ellicotville and an Alpaca farm. Both were very close to the camp. I would love to visit again in the fall.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 3, 2026

    Camp Catskills

    Nice

    People are super friendly and helpful. Campground is well maintained and very secure. RV site was very large and mostly level. Good location. Close to Hudson River and Albany.

  • A
    Jul. 3, 2026

    Fish Creek Pond Campground

    Site 266

    The site we had was amazing, all sites are right on the water so they all may be just as nice. Ours was flat and easy to level a tent or camper.

    The lake was beautiful, fun to swim in and fish in (caught perch, bass, white fish, bluegill, and crappie).

    Beautiful trees and surrounding area has boat rentals.

    The bathrooms were flush toilets which is a plus, but pretty gross otherwise.

    Local store across the road has everything you’d need (fresh baked pizzas, ice, entire convenience store, wood, etc) and gives 4% discount for cash purchases.

  • A
    Jul. 3, 2026

    Four Mile Creek State Park Campground

    Site 35

    The campground was very clean, shower and bathroom were clean and nice, Lake Ontario within walking distance was great - beautiful sunsets.

    Location was about 15 minutes to Niagara Falls and camping here came with free parking to all state park sites (like Niagara Falls!)

    Our site was against the woods which was nice but most sites seemed to be in a more open field area.

    For our kids, the large playground was also nice!

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 3, 2026

    Skyline Drive State Forest

    Nice free spot in the woods

    Only one spot as far as we could tell. We arrived 5.30PM and no one was there. There was quite a deep dip in the beginning of the side road, so higher clearance needed to get there. Nice spot between the trees, lots of shade, clean. Felt safe. There was a firepit. Bring bug repellent!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 3, 2026

    Fort Plain Lock 15 on Empire Trail

    Fun unique spot

    Lock 15 is big area with varied places to park. There is a port a potty and potable water and All free. Shaded areas and picnic tables. It is located on the Mohawk River. It is a busy train location across the river. A boat did not enter the lock during our visit but it is an active lock on the Erie Canal. There is ample parking for a dozen or more campervans. It’s only 25 miles from Copperstown, NY. Felt very safe here.

  • Erik C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 2, 2026

    Mongaup Pond

    Great camp ground

    Stayed for 2 nights in June and it was delightful. Facilities were very clean, had flush toilets and showers, and the trails around the pond were great for my dog. Sites were well maintained, but a little close together for my preference. We stayed at site 146. Would definitely come back and hope to get a site along the pond next time!

Guide to New York

Camping in New York offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, fun activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Empire State.

What to do

  • Explore Nature: Check out the stunning scenery at Green Lakes State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, “The water is breathtaking!! And the beach and property is clean and wonderfully maintained!”
  • Hiking and Water Activities: At Taughannock Falls State Park Campground, you can hike to see the impressive falls. A visitor said, “The fall itself is amazing and the location is unbeatable since you’re camping in the State Park.”
  • Fishing and Kayaking: Little Pond - DEC is perfect for fishing and kayaking. One happy camper noted, “Close to the Beaverkill and lots of great fly fishing.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A review from Chenango Valley State Park Campground states, “Clean bath houses. Tons of biking and hike trails.”
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A visitor at Delta Lake State Park Campground mentioned, “The sites were very large and well spaced out, with a beautiful fire ring.”
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Buttermilk Falls State Park Campground are great for families. One reviewer said, “Great camping if you love hiking, trail running or waterfalls.”

What you should know

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A camper at Glimmerglass State Park Campground noted, “There is a pretty covered bridge and historic home. Places to play for the kids at the lake.”
  • Limited Privacy: Sites can be close together, which might not suit everyone. A review from Green Lakes State Park Campground mentioned, “There is zero privacy here. Virtually no trees or shrubs between sites.”
  • Rules and Regulations: Be prepared for strict rules at some parks. A camper at Robert H. Treman State Park Campground said, “The dumping station is lacking but overall nice park.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Look for Playgrounds: Many campgrounds have playgrounds for kids. One parent at Chenango Valley State Park Campground mentioned, “There were lots of young kids everywhere on bikes and scooters having a great time.”
  • Plan for Activities: Choose campgrounds with activities nearby. A visitor at Herkimer Diamond Mine KOA said, “There is plenty to do for camping families and couples that enjoy a peaceful evening.”
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy. A camper at Fillmore Glen State Park Campground noted, “Great facilities, and very new playground.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review from Taughannock Falls State Park Campground mentioned, “The sites are not very large but sufficient.”
  • Look for Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a lifesaver. A visitor at Delta Lake State Park Campground said, “We had a fire pit and picnic table as well.”
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy at night. A camper at Delta Lake State Park Campground mentioned, “Quiet hours are not enforced.”

Camping in New York has its ups and downs, but with the right preparation, you can have a great time exploring the outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in New York State for families?

North-South Lake Campground is one of the larger public campgrounds in New York with well-spaced sites perfect for families. The huge lake provides excellent recreational opportunities, though it's best to avoid holidays to escape crowds. Watkins Glen State Park Campground is another excellent family option with decently sized, well-secluded sites. Families love hiking along the beautiful gorges, and the park's location makes it perfect for exploring the Finger Lakes region. Other family-friendly options include Green Lakes State Park with swimming areas and hiking trails, and Delta Lake State Park which offers a nice balance of outdoor adventure while staying close to conveniences.

When is the best time of year to go camping in New York?

The best time for camping in New York is summer (June-August) when temperatures are warm and water activities are enjoyable. However, this period can be crowded, especially around holidays. Early fall (September-October) offers spectacular foliage viewing opportunities with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds at places like Eighth Lake Campground in the Adirondacks. Late spring (May-early June) can also be pleasant with emerging greenery and fewer insects. Meadowbrook Campground in the Adirondacks is ideal during these shoulder seasons when you can enjoy privacy among the trees and shrubs. Be prepared for rain any time of year, as even summer months can bring significant precipitation.

What are the RV camping options in New York State parks?

New York State parks offer numerous RV-friendly camping options with varying amenities. Delta Lake State Park Campground at the foothills of the Adirondacks provides RV sites with proximity to civilization while still enjoying nature. Four Mile Creek State Park Campground offers big-rig-friendly sites with standard amenities like toilets and reservable spots. Many state parks including Green Lakes and Clarence Fahnestock feature dump stations and larger pads suitable for RVs. Most state park campgrounds have a mix of back-in and pull-through sites, with electricity available at select locations. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak summer months, as RV sites can fill quickly at popular destinations.

Where can I find tent camping in upstate New York?

Upstate New York offers excellent tent camping options across diverse landscapes. Nature Lover's Paradise provides access to a vast network of trails for tent campers seeking wilderness experiences. Old Forge Camping Resort offers a great getaway in the Adirondacks with tent sites. For more affordable options, state parks like Eighth Lake Campground in Inlet provide tent sites with amenities including showers, bathrooms, and access to activities like hiking, swimming, and canoeing. Birch's Lakeside Campground includes amenities like a general store and laundry facilities. Fish Creek Pond Campground near Saranac Lake is another excellent choice with waterfront sites perfect for tent campers who enjoy paddling and fishing.

Keep Exploring

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