Thinking about camping in the Catskills but not sure where to pitch your tent?
Whether you want mountain views, quiet forests, lakeside sunsets, or trails right outside your sleeping bag, the Catskills have something seriously awesome for every kind of camper.
Some spots are perfect for first-timers who want bathrooms and fire rings, while others are totally wild, with no cell service, no crowds, and just the sound of the trees.
We rounded up 7 of the absolute best places to camp in this magical part of New York, and trust us, you’re gonna want to check out every single one.
1. Wild Hudson Valley Camping
Wild Hudson Valley is a private, 95-acre forest farm and eco-camping spot near Cairo, New York, where you can pitch your tent or rent a furnished glamping-style tent.
This place is known for its quiet, back-to-nature vibe, with no car traffic, no big crowds, and no light pollution.
You can hike through wildflower meadows, cool off in the creek, or hang out by the fire pit after a long day of exploring the nearby Kaaterskill Falls and Catskill Mountain trails.
There are only 4 sites here (2 for glamping sites and 2 bring-your-own-tent sites), so expect a peaceful and private stay here.
All campsites have access to amenities like private fire pits, firewood, grilling kits, and a bathhouse with showers.
You can also get morning coffee at the Nature centre and use your own private covered dining pavilion that has a picnic table, electric outlets, and a cabinet for food storage.
This place is truly perfect if you’re into slow mornings, nature sounds, and good old-fashioned s’mores.
More information:
2. Indian Head Wilderness
If you’re up for more of a wild adventure, Indian Head Wilderness is where things get real.
This rugged stretch of the Catskills near Tannersville is packed with steep trails, dramatic overlooks, and rocky climbs that’ll get your heart pumping.
If you’re up for a challenge, you’ll want to check out the famous hike to Indian Head Mountain (part of the Devil’s Path) that offers crazy-good views.
There are no traditional campgrounds here, but there are designated backcountry campsites for primitive camping, so you’ll need to go full-on backcountry.
No bathrooms and carrying in (and out) everything you need (yep, that means your food, water, and TP too).
But if you’re into serious hiking, forest solitude, and waking up to misty mountain air, this place absolutely delivers.
More information:
3. Kaaterskill Wild Forest
Just a short drive away, Kaaterskill Wild Forest is your go-to if you want epic scenery without going full survival mode.
You’ll find tons of marked trails here, including the super popular hike to Kaaterskill Falls.
It’s a massive two-tier waterfall that’s one of the tallest in New York and totally photo-worthy.
Camping is primitive here but more regulated than Indian Head, with designated backcountry campsites where you can set up a tent.
Just keep in mind that you must stay at least 150 feet away from roads, trails, and water bodies, and while some sites may be near trails, they’re not necessarily close to water.
In some areas there are extra restrictions too, like the area close to Kaaterskill Falls.
It’s perfect for campers who want a true nature experience without being too far from civilisation.
Plus, you can be relatively close to parking areas and cute Catskills towns for food runs or rainy-day exploring.
More information:
4. Allaben Campground
If you’re looking for something low-key and spontaneous, Allaben Campground in Shandaken Wild Forest is a hidden gem with that classic Catskills charm.
It’s a small, first-come, first-served spot with just a handful of campsites tucked into the trees.
Esopus Creek sits just across Route 28, offering easy access to fishing and the sounds of nature.
There aren’t a ton of frills—just fire pits, picnic tables, and a seasonal portable toilet—but that’s kind of the point: it’s quiet, simple, and great for people looking for a rustic experience.
Plus, you’re just a short drive from hiking trails in the Slide Mountain Wilderness, so you can roast marshmallows one night and tackle a Catskill 3500 peak the next.
More information:
5. Hunter-West Kill Wilderness
For a real-deal mountain camping vibe, Hunter-West Kill Wilderness brings the drama in the best way.
This massive forest area is home to several Catskill High Peaks, like Hunter, West Kill and North Dome.
You can expect big climbs, sweeping summit views, and trails that’ll definitely get your legs working.
Camping here is all backcountry and totally off the grid, with primitive sites like Devil’s Acre Lean-to on Devil’s Path.
It really lives up to its name with steep scrambles and ridge walks that feel like something out of a fantasy movie.
Just keep in mind that camping is regulated, and it’s important to use designated sites and follow guidelines to minimize environmental impact.
It’s perfect for campers who love a challenge, don’t mind carrying their gear deep into the woods, and want that epic “I can’t believe I did this” feeling when they wake up to fog drifting through the trees.
More Information:
6. North/South Lake Campground
If you want all the nature without giving up access to a real bathroom, North/South Lake Campground is your spot.
This place is one of the most popular camping areas in the Catskills, and for good reason.
It’s got over 200 campsites, two lakes for swimming and paddling, plus easy access to famous hikes nearby.
For example, you’ve got access to the short-but-scenic trail to Artist’s Rock and the epic Escarpment Trail.
There are bathrooms with running water, picnic areas, fire rings, and even hot showers (yep, actual hot water), so it’s super beginner-friendly but still totally nature-packed.
It’s a great pick if you need an easy fix of nature with lakeside sunsets, s’mores, and hikes that are suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
More information:
7. Woodland Valley Campground
Tucked in a quiet hollow at the base of Slide Mountain, Woodland Valley Campground is the kind of place that feels like a secret, even though it’s just a few miles from Phoenicia.
This peaceful, tree-filled campground has around 70 sites with fire pits and picnic tables, plus clean bathrooms and hot showers.
So you’ll get that forest feel without totally roughing it.
It’s a favorite spot for hikers since the trail to Slide Mountain—the tallest peak in the Catskills—starts right from the campground, making it super easy to hit the trail early.
If you’re into chill mornings, coffee by the creek, and feeling tucked into the woods without being totally off the map, Woodland Valley is calling your name.
More information:
Related Posts
