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Best Campgrounds in New York

3,342 Reviews

No matter what kind of camping you’re into; seaside, mountainside, lakeside, even city side, New York has it all. There’s a countless number of places where you can pitch a tent, park a car, or rent a cabin. Camping in New York also means you’ve always got a ton of activities nearby, like swimming, hiking, fishing, canoeing, even mountain biking.

Some of the best camping in New York can be found in the Finger Lakes. Here you’ll find places like the Hickory Hill Family Camping Resort that offers themed weekends, as well as spa services, mini golf, wagon rides, and swimming pools. One of the more popular Finger Lakes destinations is Watkins Glen State Park, which has 19 waterfalls within a two mile walk. The park also has an Olympic sized pool, hot showers, and restrooms.

Dreaming of city life? The Hudson Valley region offers many wonderful places to pitch your tent. Located near the Hudson River, the towns of Kingston, Poughkeepsie, Peekskill, West Point, White Plains, and Suffern (to name a few) all have great areas for camping in New York. And, they’re all accessible by train to and from the city.

If you’re into small maritime villages on the other side of the Hudson River and the East River, Long Island boasts some of the best camping in New York. On the island, surf-casting, fresh seafood, and sandy beaches are plentiful. If you make it all the way out to the end of the island, a visit to the Montauk Lighthouse, which was commissioned by George Washington, is a must see.

And, if mountains are your thing, head to the Catskills, the Adirondacks, or even Bear Mountain State Park where you’ll find forests, hidden streams, hiking trails, and mountains galore. Whatever your style, you’ll find camping in New York to compliment it. With the Dyrt, you’ll be able to discover just the right place to lay your head for a night, a weekend, a week, or even a month.

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Best Camping Sites in New York (890)

    1. Watkins Glen State Park Campground

    86 Reviews
    •302 Photos•
    624 Saves
    Watkins Glen, New York

    Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks, with a reputation for leaving visitors spellbound. Within two miles, the glen's stream descends 400 feet past 200-foot cliffs, generating 19 waterfalls along its course. The gorge path winds over and under waterfalls and through the spray of Cavern Cascade. Rim trails overlook the gorge. Camping near Watkins Glen allows you to enjoy the Olympic-size pool, scheduled summer tours through the gorge, tent and trailer campsites, picnic facilities and excellent fishing in nearby Seneca Lake or Catherine Creek, which is renowned for its annual spring run of rainbow trout.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    2. Letchworth State Park Campground

    77 Reviews
    •220 Photos•
    489 Saves
    Perry, New York

    Located in Western New York state, about 45 miles southwest of Rochester, Letchworth State Park is known as the “Grand Canyon of the East.” Straddling the Genesee River for 17 miles the park encompasses more than 14,000 acres of deep river canyon and dense woodlands. The area was purchased in 1859 by William Pryor Letchworth, who recognized its natural and scenic value. He then granted it to the state in 1906 to be preserved as a public park. The park’s main attraction is the three dramatic waterfalls on the Genesee, which pour over escarpments up to 100 feet high. In addition to the spectacular scenery, the park also offers year-round outdoor recreation, from hiking, fishing and birdwatching to a variety of snow play.

    The large campground in Letchworth State Park makes a good basecamp for exploring the area’s many sights and recreation opportunities. It contains 270 tent, trailer and RV sites in eight separate loops. All sites have electrical hookups, and there are water spigots, restrooms with showers, recycling stations and a dump station available. Additional accommodations in the park include camping cabins and the Glen Iris Inn. Visitors also have access to several picnic areas and playgrounds, a swimming pool, sports fields, trout pond, a museum, and nature center. Campsite rates range from $24–$26/night, plus additional fees; cabin and lodge rates vary; reservations recommended.

    The best way to see many of the park’s sights is to get out and walk, hike or bike on any of the 66 miles of multiuse trails that wind through the park, and vary in distance and difficulty. The waterfalls are best viewed along the 7-mile Gorge Trail. One of the more unique and exciting ways to see the park is by hot air balloon. Other activities in the park include paddling on the river, nature programs, guided walks, and interpretive exhibits. The park also offers some of the best birdwatching in the state. In winter, many of the park’s trails become snowshoe and cross-country ski routes, and a few are even open to snowmobiles, so no matter what time of year you visit, there’s a way to play outdoors.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    3. Four Mile Creek State Park Campground

    52 Reviews
    •129 Photos•
    382 Saves
    Youngstown, New York

    Four Mile Creek State Park is located just 15 minutes north of the mighty Niagara Falls. The 275 campsites average 50' x 50' in size and feature both shady and sunny settings. Available services range from 10 50 amp sites and 121 30 amp sites to 144 non-electric sites accommodating the biggest rig to the most primitive tent site. 21 Prime sites, electric or non-electric, are located near the shores of Lake Ontario and offer spectacular panoramic views. The park has hiking trails for campers along the densely wooded bluffs. The marsh at the mouth of Four Mile Creek is home to fauna such as great blue herons, white tail deer and to flora such as stunning white trillium and greenbrier. A camp store is located at Four Mile Creek. Laundry facilities are located at comfort stations in the 100 and 200 areas. A modern playground is centrally located in the park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    4. North-South Lake Campground

    43 Reviews
    •170 Photos•
    737 Saves
    Palenville, New York

    North South Lake Campground is the biggest and most popular state campground in the Catskill Forest Preserve, offering extraordinary scenic beauty, and historical sites, such as: Alligator Rock, Kaaterskill Falls, and the former site of the Catskill Mountain House. An abrupt change in elevation occurs from about 540 feet above sea level at the base of the escarpment to approximately 2,250 feet at the site of the former Catskill Mountain House. The provinces around the lakes have long provided visitors with exceptional views of the surrounding countryside. It is said that on a clear day, five states can be viewed from the escarpment. 7 camping loops; 219 tent and trailer sites; 2 lakes; 2 beaches; Two picnic areas: one on North Lake with two picnic pavilion rentals a 20' X 32' and a 44' X 24' (the larger of the two with electricity) and one on South Lake with a 40' X 60' picnic pavilion rental (with electricity).; 2 picnic areas with tables and fireplaces or charcoal grills; playground; flush toilets; hot showers; boat launch (no motorized vessels); rowboat, canoe, kayak and paddle boat rentals; firewood sales; volleyball; horseshoes; fishing; playing field; trailer dump station; recycling center; solar cell phone charging station; ADA fishing platform.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $22 - $27 / night

    5. Green Lakes State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    •83 Photos•
    279 Saves
    Kirkville, New York

    Green Lakes State Park's outstanding features are its two glacial lakes surrounded by upland forest. Both Round and Green Lakes are meromictic lakes, which means that there is no fall and spring mixing of surface and bottom waters. Such lakes have a high potential for evidence of ancient plant and animal life. Another special feature of the park is an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones, where visitors can snowshoe in winter, and there are 10 miles of trails that cross-country skiers can use. Geography: Green Lakes State Park is located just east of the city of Syracuse, in upstate New York. Recreation: Considered a flagship facility, visitors can enjoy biking, boating, fishing, golf, hiking, picnicking, camping, and wintertime cross-country skiing. Facilities: The park's facilities include a beach, rowboat rentals, cabins and campsites, food concessions, a golf course, trails, picnic tables and pavilions, a playground, showers, and dumping stations.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 - $36 / night

    6. Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday

    43 Reviews
    •108 Photos•
    159 Saves
    Wilmington, New York

    Enjoy the Adirondack Mountain countryside's pristine mountains, lakes and streams when you escape the city to say at Lake Placid/ Whiteface Mountain KOA. The Lake Placid and Whiteface region of the Adirondacks is one of the oldest vacation destinations in the country, and camping gives you plenty of opportunities to take in the big views, big scenery and big history this area is known for. 

    Located in Wilmington, NY near Lake Placid and Whiteface Mountain, our campground is your gateway to all the world-class recreation you will find in this region. That means fly-fishermen and hikers alike will feel right at home when choosing one of our tent camping or other sites as your home base. We are also an ideal destination for a romantic getaway or a family adventure in the great outdoors.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    7. Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    40 Reviews
    •148 Photos•
    494 Saves
    Pomona, New York

    Beaver Pond offers campsites, some with a raised platform, for up to two tents and six persons per site; select sites can accommodate a trailer or RV up to 30 ft. long. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring with flip top grill, and there are shared full-service bathrooms centrally located. Located in Harriman State Park and adjacent to Lake Welch, the campground offers convenient access to swimming beaches, hiking trails, and neighboring state park facilities. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of the Lower Hudson Valley, while having the ease of access to local shops, historic sites, and countless seasonal events.

    *Please be advised that there are no electrical hook ups for trailers at this campground.

    Alcohol is not permitted at Beaver Pond Campgrounds.

    No Pets Permitted.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $15 - $22 / night

    8. HTR Niagara Campground

    36 Reviews
    •75 Photos•
    338 Saves
    Grand Island, New York

    Due to its proximity to Niagara Falls, it is no surprise that HTR Niagara Campground (formerly Branches of the Niagara Campground) is a popular camping destination. The campground is located just a few miles from the falls, one of the world's most famous natural wonders. HTR Niagara itself is nestled in a wooded area near the Niagara River, providing a peaceful and secluded setting for camping. Campers can fish in the river, kayak on nearby lakes (not too close to the falls, please), and hike through the surrounding forests. The campground also has a heated swimming pool and plenty of room to throw down a blanket for a picnic or go on a leisurely bike ride.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $77 / night

    9. Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park

    34 Reviews
    •121 Photos•
    423 Saves
    Fishkill, New York

    This scenic campground, formed along the park's natural rock ridges, provides alcoves of privacy and tranquility for campers. Each of the 80 campsites has a picnic table and fire ring. Additionally there is an area for RV camping. Although there are no hookups available or dump station, restroom and shower facilities are centrally located to all RV and tent sites. Individuals, as well as larger camping groups, are welcome. The campground's nature center houses environmental displays and a variety of touch boxes. On weekends, park staff organizes hikes and craft activities. Movies are shown on Saturday evenings for the enjoyment of all campers.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    10. Hamlin Beach State Park Campground

    30 Reviews
    •77 Photos•
    111 Saves
    Morton, New York
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
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Recent Reviews in New York

3342 Reviews of 890 New York Campgrounds

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 camping is available in New York?

    According to TheDyrt.com, New York offers a wide range of camping options, with 890 campgrounds and RV parks in New York and 66 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground in New York?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in New York is Watkins Glen State Park Campground with a 5-star rating from 86 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping in New York?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 66 free dispersed camping spots in New York.

  • What are the best parks in New York?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 465 parks in New York that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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