Best Campgrounds in New York

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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 Campgrounds in New York (959)

1. Watkins Glen State Park Campground
94 Reviews
Watkins Glen, NY
Website
+1 (607) 535-4511
$24 - $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
83 Reviews
Perry, NY
Website
+1 (585) 493-3600
$300 / 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
58 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. Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday
45 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."

5. 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."
6. Green Lakes State Park Campground
42 Reviews
Kirkville, NY
Website
+1 (315) 637-6111
$24 - $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. HTR Niagara Campground
40 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."

"WHAT I LIKED: This campground is a short drive to Niagara Falls and the Canadian border

— The park is beautiful with a great balance of natural and well-maintained

— Our site was level and clean"
8. Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park
41 Reviews
Pomona, NY
+1 (845) 947-2792
$21 - $24 / 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."

9. Fish Creek Pond Campground
35 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
34 Reviews
Fishkill, NY
Website
+1 (845) 225-7207
$21 / 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 Camping Photos in New York

1348 Photos of 959 New York Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers

Recent Reviews in New York

3715 Reviews of 959 New York Campgrounds

Nancy W.
Legend
Oct. 31, 2026
Robert H. Treman State Park Campground
Beautiful waterfalls!
This is a really great state park which has a nice campground, beautiful scenery, interesting attractions nearby, and great hiking trails. The biggest attraction are the 12 waterfalls in the park. Some are easy, short walks, and others are moderate and longer. The Rim and Gorge Trails make a loop which makes for a really good workout with lots of stairs and elevation change. Personally, I think the views from the Gorge Trail are better. Or, you can park in the upper lot and walk down (approximately 1/3 mile) to see Lucifer Falls and walk back. Fall is a great time to visit and enhances the views.

All campsites are back-in and have fire pits and picnic tables. Some are in the open(#49-72)with a scattering of trees, while others are tucked in the woods with lots of shade. The open sites are much easier for big rigs to navigate and back into. There is no water or sewer at sites but water spigots are located throughout the campground and the dump station is easy to access on your way out and has a dedicated water fill station away from the dump site. Our site (#52) was open which we appreciated in because the fall weather was cool and we had a clear sky for Dish satelitte. The pad was gravel and level. The patio is grass and there is nice distance between you and your neighbors Some sites are dry camping and other have electric that varies from 30 or 50-amp and the price reflects which you choose. Our site was electric only (50-amp which worked well) and we were close enough to a shared water spigot so we could add water. There are signs that say you can only hookup to the spigots for five minutes and “Y” connectors are not allowed. Swimming is allowed in the pools and river but has certain daily hours and is only open from late-June to Labor Day. Your receipt and park pass allow you access to other NY state parks in the area. Definitely check out Buttermilk Falls State Park which is just a couple of miles away and has nice hiking trails and more beautiful waterfalls. We visited the Cornell Lab of Ornithology (which is free) and has interesting exhibits, short films, and hiking trails.
Anthony S.
Traveler
Oct. 30, 2026
Moose River Rd Inlet, NY 13360 United States
One of my favorite places to camp in the Adirondacks! Extremely dispersed camping, so make sure you bring everything you’ll need. There are tons of free camping spots along this road, and there’s even someone selling firewood near the entrance if you need to stock up.

Plenty of incredible hiking trails throughout the area, beautiful scenery, and lots of opportunities to find your own little slice of peace and quiet.

Highly recommend this spot to anyone looking to disconnect, escape the hustle and bustle, and get away from reality. I’ll definitely be back!
W
Will K.
Traveler
Oct. 28, 2026
Schodack Island State Park Campground
Camp is pretty close together but most spots have a thick tree line between them which is nice. You still get a bit of road noise off the bridge and surrounding areas but it’s not to bad and the views at the boat launch on the Hudson are gorgeous
t
traveller 1.
Legend
Oct. 27, 2026
old quarry road
For the area, this is a private spot. Walking trails near by. Old abandoned quarry road ( can’t drive to quarry ) . The last building you pass, blue one, was the humane society but it’s since moved. Lots of road noise but very little traffic
Jayden R.
Scout
Oct. 27, 2026
Ausable Pines RV Park & Campground
Adirondack Trip
First trip with our new RV and we were a little nervous about getting everything set up. Having full hookups made it way less complicated than we expected. Once we were settled, we just enjoyed the area and took a few day trips. Would definatly come back for another Adirondack trip.
Jamie K.
Scout
Oct. 27, 2026
Kings Bay Campground
Move The RV
If youre traveling through northern NY, this is a really convenient place to base yourself. We were able to spend some time around Lake Champlain, explore nearby areas and even make a trip toward the border without having to move the RV. Coming back to a waterfront campground every evening was a pretty nice bonus.
Frankie S.
Scout
Oct. 27, 2026
Riverbend East Campground
Great Little Spots
Really enjoyed the atmosphere here. It felt relaxed without being boring, and there was plenty around the area to explore. We went for a drive one afternoon and found some great little spots nearby.
Erin L.
Scout
Oct. 25, 2026
HTR Niagara Campground
Beautiful, well cared for campground! Bathhouses are very clean, laundry facilities at each bathhouse, heated pools in the summer, 2 zip lines, laser tag, mini golf, boats, pedal bikes, playground, basketball, Gaga ball, catch and release fishing pond, and 2 dog parks. Close to Niagara Falls.
S
Sean A.
Scout
Oct. 24, 2026
Finger Lakes RV Resort
Another fantastic stay at Finger Lakes RV Resort! This continues to be one of our absolute favorite campgrounds, and visiting during the fall made it even more special. The changing leaves and beautiful fall colors throughout the Finger Lakes were incredible.

As always, the campground was beautifully maintained, exceptionally clean, and peaceful, with spacious sites and gorgeous views. The family that owns and operates the resort is incredibly friendly, welcoming, and accommodating. You can really tell how much pride they take in the property and in making sure their guests have a great experience.

We had a wonderful time exploring the area this trip. We hiked Watkins Glen Gorge and Buttermilk Falls Gorge, both absolutely stunning with the fall foliage. We also visited Watkins Glen International Raceway, enjoyed some great food and drinks at Grist Iron Brewing, and spent time at Hector Wine Company and Red Newt Cellars. The wineries were fantastic, and we especially appreciated how welcoming and dog-friendly the area was.

The location really is hard to beat, with so many great hikes, wineries, breweries, restaurants, and attractions just a short drive away. It’s a wonderful destination for families traveling with young children and dogs.

We always look forward to coming back to Finger Lakes RV Resort, and this visit was no exception. Between the beautiful campground, wonderful owners, and everything the Finger Lakes has to offer, it’s a place we never get tired of visiting. Already looking forward to our next stay!

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

Best Campgrounds in New York

Best Campgrounds in New York (959)

1. Watkins Glen State Park Campground

2. Letchworth State Park Campground

3. Four Mile Creek State Park Campground

4. Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday

5. North-South Lake Campground

6. Green Lakes State Park Campground

7. HTR Niagara Campground

8. Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park

9. Fish Creek Pond Campground

10. Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground