If you’re dreaming of peaceful mountain mornings, fresh air, and stunning woodland views, camping in the Catskills, New York is a must-add to your bucket list. Whether you prefer tent camping, family-friendly campgrounds, or cozy cabins in the woods, the Catskills offer it all.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best camping sites in the Catskills, along with options for cabins, tent sites, pricing info, and real camper reviews—plus direct links to help you book with ease.
Top 7 Best Camping Spots in the Catskills, NY
1. North-South Lake Campground – The Classic Catskills Experience
📍 Haines Falls, NY
💸 Price: $22/night (standard site)
⛺ Tent & RV sites | 🚿 Bathrooms
⭐ Google Rating: 4.7/5
🔗 Official Site – NY DEC
The largest and most popular state campground in the Catskills, North-South Lake offers everything from scenic hiking trails (like Kaaterskill Falls) to picnic areas and paddleboat rentals. Ideal for family camping in the Catskills.
2. Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds – Family-Oriented with Glamping Options
📍 Saugerties, NY
💸 Price: $55–$120/night (varies by site/cabin)
⛺ Tent & RV sites | 🏕️ Cabins & Glamping tents
⭐ Google Rating: 4.6/5
🔗 https://www.ripvanwinklecampgrounds.com
This award-winning private campground is packed with fun: a pool, hiking trails, mini-golf, and even a splash pad. Great for both traditional tent campers and those looking for Catskills glamping cabins.
checkout ——> Hodge Lake: A Complete Guide to Fishing, Camping
3. Woodland Valley Campground – Secluded and Scenic
📍 Phoenicia, NY
💸 Price: $22/night
⛺ Tent camping only | 🚿 Bathrooms
⭐ Google Rating: 4.5/5
🔗 Official Site – NY DEC
Tucked in a quiet valley at the base of Slide Mountain, this is perfect for tent camping in the Catskills with a backcountry feel. Hikers love it for its access to the Slide Mountain Wilderness Area.
4. Devil’s Tombstone Campground – Primitive Vibes & Big Views
📍 Hunter, NY
💸 Price: $16/night
⛺ Tent-only | 🚫 No showers
⭐ Google Rating: 4.3/5
🔗 Official Site – NY DEC
One of the oldest campgrounds in the Catskills, it’s rustic and ideal for experienced campers who want to disconnect. Bring your gear—and your bug spray.
5. Kenneth L. Wilson Campground – Ideal for RVs and Big Groups
📍 Mt. Tremper, NY
💸 Price: $22/night
⛺ Tent & RV | 🚿 Hot showers
⭐ Google Rating: 4.6/5
🔗 Official Site – NY DEC
Spacious sites and access to hiking, biking, and paddling make this campground popular for group and family camping. Bonus: it’s close to Woodstock!
6. Catskill Adventure Resort – Resort-Style Comfort Meets Nature
📍 Wurtsboro, NY
💸 Price: $50–$150/night
⛺ Tent & RV | 🏕️ Cabins | 🏊 Pool
⭐ Google Rating: 4.4/5
🔗 https://www.catskilladventureresort.com
If you want a mix of nature and amenities, this Catskills campground with cabins is your best bet. Movie nights, firewood delivery, and playgrounds make it a family favorite.
7. Little Pond Campground – Lakeside Serenity
📍 Andes, NY
💸 Price: $22–$30/night
⛺ Tent & RV | 🚿 Bathrooms
⭐ Google Rating: 4.7/5
🔗 Official Site – NY DEC
Perfect for kayaking, fishing, or reading lakeside with a view, Little Pond is a hidden gem in the western Catskills. Campers rave about its peace and beauty.
Camping Types in the Catskills
➤ Tent Camping in the Catskills
If you love traditional camping, the DEC (Department of Environmental Conservation) runs several tent-only campgrounds. Top picks:
- Woodland Valley Campground
- Devil’s Tombstone Campground
- Mongaup Pond Campground (Link)
➤ Cabins & Glamping in the Catskills
For comfort-seekers, many private sites offer glamping and rustic cabins:
- Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds
- Catskill Adventure Resort
- Blue Hills Farm Tentrr Cabins (Tentrr Catskills)
➤ Pet-Friendly Sites
Most Catskills campgrounds welcome pets—just bring a leash and waste bags! Pet-friendly options include:
- North-South Lake
- Little Pond Campground
- Kenneth L. Wilson Campground
Real Camper Reviews
“Woodland Valley was so peaceful! Woke up to the sound of a stream and birds. Bring extra layers—it gets chilly.” – Nate P.
“Rip Van Winkle is perfect for families. Clean cabins, safe trails, and friendly staff!” – Tanya M.
“North-South Lake never disappoints. Scenic views, clean bathrooms, and kayaking!” – Jamie R.
Tips for Camping in the Catskills
- Book in Advance: Especially for summer weekends. Reserve through ReserveAmerica or the campground’s own site.
- Pack for All Weather: Even summer nights can be cool in the mountains.
- Respect Wildlife & Fire Safety Rules: The Catskills are bear country—store food properly.
FAQ: Camping in the Catskills
Q: When is the best time to go camping in the Catskills?
A: Late spring through early fall is ideal. Fall foliage season (late September to October) is especially beautiful.
Q: Are there free camping spots in the Catskills?
A: Yes! Primitive camping is allowed in some Forest Preserve areas. Learn more here:
🔗 https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/41282.html
Q: Can I bring pets to the campgrounds?
A: Most Catskills campgrounds allow leashed pets, but double-check each site’s policy.
Q: Are campfires allowed?
A: Usually yes—unless there’s a burn ban in place. Firewood must be local (to avoid invasive pests).
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a rustic adventure or a relaxing weekend in a cozy cabin, camping in the Catskills, NY offers something for every outdoor enthusiast. With scenic lakes, mountain views, and charming small towns nearby, it’s no wonder campers return year after year.
So grab your gear, pick your site, and get ready to reconnect with nature in the beautiful Catskills!
