Best Campgrounds in New York

New York’s diverse landscape offers some of the most spectacular camping experiences in the northeastern United States. From the majestic Adirondack mountains to the pristine Finger Lakes, the vibrant Catskills to the thundering Niagara, the Empire State provides outdoor enthusiasts with an incredible variety of natural settings to pitch their tents. Whether you’re seeking remote wilderness, family-friendly amenities, or breathtaking waterfront views, these top campgrounds showcase the very best of New York’s natural splendor. Grab your camping gear and prepare to discover these remarkable destinations where forest meets lake, mountain meets sky, and city life feels a million miles away.

1. Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA

Number of Campsites: 175
Reservations: https://koa.com/campgrounds/lake-placid/
Address: 77 Fox Farm Road, Wilmington, NY 12997

Nestled in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, this premier campground offers a perfect blend of comfort and wilderness. Tall white pines create a fragrant canopy overhead, their needles cushioning the forest floor and filling the air with that distinctive pine scent that epitomizes mountain camping. The sites are thoughtfully arranged to provide privacy while maintaining a sense of community, with the gentle murmur of the Ausable River providing a soothing natural soundtrack.

Morning here brings a special kind of magic. Mist often clings to the surrounding mountains, their peaks playing hide-and-seek with the clouds. As the sun rises higher, it filters through the pine boughs, creating dappled patterns of light across your campsite. The crisp mountain air feels invigorating as you sip your morning coffee, perhaps spotting a white-tailed deer cautiously making its way through the edge of the forest.

What makes this location truly exceptional is its proximity to some of the Adirondacks’ most iconic attractions. The Olympic legacy of Lake Placid is just minutes away, while the towering presence of Whiteface Mountain—New York’s fifth-highest peak—dominates the horizon. After a day of hiking, fishing in mountain streams, or exploring the region’s many attractions, you can return to a campground that offers substantial amenities, including a heated pool, hot tubs, and even Wi-Fi for those who can’t completely disconnect.

As evening approaches, the setting sun paints the mountain peaks in golden hues before they fade to purple and then charcoal silhouettes against the darkening sky. The temperature drops noticeably, that refreshing mountain chill making campfires both practical and atmospheric. The night sky reveals a canopy of stars that seem close enough to touch, their brilliance magnified by the clear mountain air and minimal light pollution.

2. Watkins Glen State Park Campground

Number of Campsites: 305
Reservations: https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/
Address: 1009 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891

Perched at the southern tip of Seneca Lake in the beautiful Finger Lakes region, Watkins Glen State Park Campground serves as a perfect base for exploring one of New York’s most dramatic natural wonders. The campground itself offers spacious sites set among mature hardwoods that provide welcome shade during warm summer days. The sound of distant waterfalls creates a subtle, soothing backdrop that reminds you of the natural marvel waiting just a short walk away.

The main attraction here is undoubtedly the Glen itself—a spellbinding gorge where water has carved its way through rock over millennia, creating a series of 19 waterfalls along a two-mile stretch. The Gorge Trail that winds through this wonderland feels like stepping into a fantasy novel, with stone staircases, bridges, and pathways taking you behind curtains of falling water and alongside moss-covered cliffs where ferns cling to every available surface.

Morning in the campground begins with birdsong filtering through the leafy canopy. The hardwood forest comes alive with movement as chickadees, nuthatches, and woodpeckers go about their daily routines. Walking through the campground, you might catch glimpses of eastern chipmunks darting between sites or hear the distinctive call of a pileated woodpecker echoing through the trees.

Beyond the campground and its famous gorge, the surrounding Finger Lakes region offers world-class wineries, crystal-clear lakes perfect for swimming and boating, and charming small towns worth exploring. After a day of adventures, returning to your campsite feels like coming home. As evening approaches, the communal atmosphere of the campground becomes apparent, with the mingled scents of various campfire meals creating an appetizing perfume that drifts through the grounds.

Night brings a blanket of stars overhead, though not as dramatic as more remote locations due to the proximity to the town of Watkins Glen. Still, the soft glow of campfires, the distant sound of falling water, and the occasional call of a barred owl create a wonderful atmosphere for sharing stories or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this special place.

3. North-South Lake Campground

Number of Campsites: 219
Reservations: https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/
Address: County Route 18, Haines Falls, NY 12436

Perched high in the Catskill Mountains at an elevation of 2,250 feet, North-South Lake Campground reigns as the biggest and most popular camping destination in the Catskill Forest Preserve. The campground sprawls between two magnificent mountain lakes, surrounded by hardwood forests that put on a breathtaking display of color each autumn. Sites are scattered throughout this scenic landscape, many offering direct access to the shoreline where the mountains reflect perfectly in the still morning waters.

Dawn breaks gently over the eastern mountain ridges, sending golden light spilling across the lakes’ surfaces and gradually illuminating the forest. Early risers might spot a great blue heron stalking the shallows or a beaver creating ripples as it crosses from shore to shore. The morning air carries a crisp freshness that feels almost electric, especially after summer rainstorms when mist rises from the forest floor and hovers mysteriously among the trees.

This location is steeped in both natural beauty and cultural history. The famous “Catskill Mountain House” site nearby offers one of the Hudson Valley’s most spectacular views—a panorama that has inspired generations of artists from the Hudson River School painters to modern photographers. Numerous hiking trails radiate from the campground, leading to dramatic features like Kaaterskill Falls (New York’s highest cascading waterfall), Artist’s Rock, and Sunset Rock, each offering their own magnificent vistas.

The lakes themselves provide perfect opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating in water so clear you can often see straight to the bottom. The beach areas bustle with activity during warm summer days, while early mornings and evenings offer more tranquil experiences for kayakers and canoeists who might have the water almost to themselves.

As night falls, the temperature drops considerably, a reminder of the mountain elevation. Campfires become essential gathering points, their warm glow reflecting off nearby tent walls and illuminating happy faces. The night sky, partially visible through the forest canopy, reveals pockets of stars that shift with the gentle swaying of tree branches overhead.

4. Letchworth State Park Campground

Number of Campsites: 270
Reservations: https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/
Address: 1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427

Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park cradles a campground that offers proximity to some of the most spectacular scenery in the eastern United States. The Genesee River has carved a deep gorge through the landscape, with walls that soar up to 600 feet high and three major waterfalls that thunder through the canyon. The campground itself sits atop the gorge, nestled in a mature forest of mixed hardwoods and pines that provide both privacy and natural beauty.

Morning light filters through the trees, creating constantly shifting patterns of sun and shadow across your campsite. The distant roar of the Middle Falls provides a constant reminder of the natural power that shaped this landscape over millennia. Walking through the campground, you’ll notice an abundance of wildlife—from white-tailed deer that seem almost tame to a variety of songbirds that fill the air with melody from dawn until dusk.

What makes this campground truly exceptional is the 66 miles of hiking trails that allow you to explore the park’s many wonders. Paths lead to scenic overlooks that leave visitors speechless, their cameras clicking frantically in attempts to capture views that must really be experienced in person. The gorge trail offers particularly dramatic vistas, with several spots where you can feel the spray from the falls on your face and the thunderous power of the water in your chest.

Beyond hiking, the park offers opportunities for whitewater rafting, hot air balloon rides (imagine floating over that gorge!), and historical exploration of structures like the restored Civil War-era Mount Morris Dam. After a day of adventures, returning to your campsite feels remarkably peaceful despite the incredible drama of the surrounding landscape.

As night falls, the forest grows quiet except for the distant water sounds and occasional calls of owls. The campground’s location, somewhat removed from major cities, allows for excellent stargazing on clear nights. The age and height of the surrounding trees create an intimate atmosphere around your campfire, as if you’re in a natural cathedral with a living, breathing canopy overhead.

5. Fish Creek Pond Campground

Number of Campsites: 355
Reservations: https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/
Address: 4523 State Route 30, Saranac Lake, NY 12983

In the heart of the Adirondacks lies a waterfront camping paradise that offers what many consider the perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty. Fish Creek Pond Campground sprawls along the shores of connected ponds and lakes, with the vast majority of its sites directly on the water. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding pine forests and distant mountains, creating a mirror world that changes with the light and weather throughout the day.

Waking up here means opening your tent or camper door to an immediate water view. Early morning mist often hovers just above the pond’s surface, creating an ethereal scene as the rising sun gradually burns it away. The distinctive call of loons echoes across the water—a hauntingly beautiful sound that has become emblematic of the Adirondack experience. The air smells of pine, water, and occasionally, morning campfires as early risers begin their day.

What makes Fish Creek truly special is the way each site connects directly to the water. Most campsites feature their own natural “beach” area, perfect for launching canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards. The interconnected waterways create endless opportunities for exploration—you could spend days paddling through the Saranac Lake chain without covering the same water twice. The ponds are shallow and warm relatively quickly, making swimming pleasant from mid-June through early September.

The campground itself features spacious sites separated by natural vegetation, though it lacks the dense forest cover of some other Adirondack campgrounds. This openness creates a friendly, communal atmosphere where children ride bikes along the paved loops and neighbors often share fishing tips or evening campfires. Despite the popularity and size of this campground, it never feels crowded due to the thoughtful layout and the way the sites spread along miles of shoreline.

As evening approaches, the water often becomes perfectly still, creating flawless reflections of the sunset sky. The transition from day to night brings a chorus of frogs and the occasional splash of jumping fish. Once darkness falls completely, the night sky puts on a dazzling show, with stars reflected in the dark water creating the magical sensation of floating in space.

6. Hamlin Beach State Park

Number of Campsites: 264
Reservations: https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/
Address: 1 Hamlin Beach Blvd, Hamlin, NY 14464

Stretching along the southern shore of Lake Ontario, Hamlin Beach State Park offers a coastal camping experience that might surprise those who think of New York only in terms of mountains and forests. The campground sits nestled among mature trees just a short walk from one of the finest swimming beaches on Lake Ontario. The freshwater sea stretches to the horizon, creating the illusion of an ocean coastline but without the salt and with smaller, gentler waves.

The campsites here are arranged in loops that provide a good balance of privacy and community. Tall deciduous trees create a green canopy overhead during summer months, their leaves rustling in the constant lake breeze that keeps the air fresh and temperatures moderate even during the hottest days. The ground is typically level and grassy, making tent setup a breeze compared to the rocky terrain of mountain campgrounds.

Morning at Hamlin brings the distinctive scent of the Great Lakes—a fresh, slightly mineral aroma that mingles with morning dew on grass and leaves. Early risers might catch a spectacular sunrise over the lake, with colors reflecting off the water and gradually illuminating the campground. Birds are abundant here, with everything from tiny warblers to impressive ospreys making appearances throughout the day.

The beach itself is the main attraction, with fine sand perfect for castle building and shallow water that warms nicely for swimming by mid-summer. Walking west along the shoreline reveals fascinating rock formations and driftwood sculptures created by the lake’s ever-changing moods. Fishing opportunities abound, both from shore and from the park’s boat launch facilities.

As day transitions to evening, the setting sun creates a spectacular light show over the lake, often painting the sky in dramatic oranges, pinks, and purples that reflect endlessly on the water’s surface. The constant, gentle sound of waves lapping at the shore creates a soothing soundtrack for evening campfires. The night sky here offers good stargazing, though with some light influence from nearby Rochester visible to the southeast.

7. Wildwood State Park

Number of Campsites: 321
Reservations: https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/
Address: 790 Hulse Landing Road, Wading River, NY 11792

On the North Shore of Long Island sits a surprising wilderness retreat just 80 miles from Manhattan. Wildwood State Park preserves a rare maritime forest that descends to meet the Long Island Sound, creating a diverse camping environment that combines woodland tranquility with beachfront excitement. The campground occupies a bluff overlooking the water, with sites scattered among oak, pine, and maple trees that provide welcome shade during summer months.

Dawn at Wildwood brings a chorus of birdsong that can be surprisingly loud and varied for a location so close to New York City. The maritime forest supports an abundance of wildlife, from osprey soaring overhead to chipmunks scurrying between campsites. Morning light filters through the trees, creating a dappled effect across the forest floor as you enjoy your first cup of coffee at your picnic table.

A network of hiking trails winds through the 600-acre hardwood forest, offering opportunities to spot deer, wild turkey, and a variety of bird species. The real treasure, however, lies at the bottom of the bluff—a two-mile stretch of beach along the Long Island Sound. Unlike the crowded beaches elsewhere on Long Island, this shoreline feels surprisingly secluded, especially in the early morning hours when you might have long stretches entirely to yourself.

The beach features smooth pebbles near the water’s edge that give way to sand further up the shore. The Sound’s protected waters are calmer than the ocean beaches on Long Island’s South Shore, making swimming more family-friendly. Beachcombing reveals interesting geological specimens and occasionally, sea glass polished by years of wave action.

As evening approaches, campers gather on the beach to watch the sun set across the Sound, with Connecticut visible on the opposite shore. The gradual fade from brilliant orange and pink to deeper blues and purples creates a peaceful end to active days. Back at the campsite, the substantial tree cover creates early darkness perfect for campfires and stargazing, though light pollution from surrounding communities limits the celestial display compared to more remote locations.

8. Ausable Point Campground

Number of Campsites: 123
Reservations: https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/
Address: 3346 Lakeshore Road, Peru, NY 12972

Where the mighty Ausable River meets the vast expanse of Lake Champlain, you’ll find one of New York’s most scenically situated campgrounds. Ausable Point offers a unique combination of riverfront and lakeshore camping, with spectacular views of both the Adirondack Mountains to the west and Vermont’s Green Mountains across the lake to the east. The campground spreads across a peninsula, allowing many sites to enjoy either sunrise or sunset water views.

Morning here begins with a symphony of natural sounds—waves gently lapping at the lakeshore, birds calling from the wetlands where river meets lake, and the occasional splash of a jumping fish. Early risers are often rewarded with breathtaking sunrises over the Green Mountains, the first light painting Lake Champlain in shimmering gold while mist rises from the cooler water surface.

The campsites are thoughtfully arranged to maximize views while providing privacy through natural vegetation barriers. Tall cottonwoods and silver maples create dappled shade throughout the day, their leaves constantly moving in the lake breeze. The ground is typically level and grassy, making tent setup straightforward and comfortable.

What makes Ausable Point truly special is its magnificent sandy beach—one of the finest on Lake Champlain. The shallow, gradually sloping shoreline creates safe swimming conditions for families, while the expansive sand area provides plenty of space for beach games, sunbathing, or simply watching the parade of sailboats that often ply these waters during summer months. For those who bring their own watercraft, the boat launch provides easy access to both the lake and river systems. And don’t forget to look for Champ!

As evening approaches, the western sky often explodes with color as the sun sets behind the Adirondack Mountains. The lake takes on the colors of the sky, creating a doubled display of nature’s light show. After dark, campfires dot the grounds like earthbound stars, while the real celestial display overhead can be quite impressive on clear nights, especially with the dark bulk of the mountains blocking some light pollution from the west.

9. Glimmerglass State Park

Number of Campsites: 50
Reservations: https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/
Address: 1527 County Highway 31, Cooperstown, NY 13326

On the northern shore of Otsego Lake—James Fenimore Cooper’s famous “Glimmerglass”—this charming campground offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. The park occupies rolling hills covered in mature hardwood forest that descends to meet the crystal-clear waters of the lake. The campground itself is set back from the shore in a peaceful woodland setting, creating a secluded atmosphere despite its proximity to popular attractions.

Waking up at Glimmerglass means opening your eyes to sunlight filtering through a canopy of maple, oak, and beech trees. The air carries the distinctive scent of a healthy deciduous forest—earthy, green, and alive with subtle fragrances that change with the seasons. Morning bird chorus is particularly rich here, with everything from tiny warblers to pileated woodpeckers making their presence known.

The park’s beach area provides a perfect spot for swimming in what is considered one of New York’s cleanest lakes. The water clarity is often remarkable, with visibility extending many feet below the surface. Looking south across the lake, the views extend for nearly nine miles to Cooperstown, creating a sense of spaciousness that contrasts pleasantly with the intimate forest setting of the campground.

Beyond natural attractions, the surrounding area offers rich cultural experiences. The nearby Farmers’ Museum and Fenimore Art Museum provide fascinating glimpses into American history and art, while Cooperstown’s National Baseball Hall of Fame draws visitors from across the nation. After a day of exploration, returning to your campsite feels like retreating to a peaceful forest haven.

Evening at Glimmerglass brings a special magic as the setting sun creates a pathway of golden light across the lake—the very effect that inspired the name “Glimmerglass.” As darkness falls, the forest grows quiet except for the occasional call of a barred owl or the rustling of nocturnal creatures beginning their nightly routines. The campground’s secluded location provides good stargazing opportunities, with the surrounding hills blocking some light pollution from nearby communities.

10. Wellesley Island State Park

Number of Campsites: 429
Reservations: https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/
Address: 44927 Cross Island Road, Fineview, NY 13640

In the heart of the magnificent Thousand Islands region, Wellesley Island State Park offers a camping experience that perfectly captures the magic of this unique archipelago. The campground sprawls across the southern portion of Wellesley Island, with most sites nestled among mature oaks, maples, and pines that provide welcome shade and privacy. Scattered throughout are granite outcroppings—reminders of the area’s ancient geological history and part of what makes the Thousand Islands so distinctively beautiful.

Morning here begins with dappled sunlight filtering through the leafy canopy, creating constantly shifting patterns across your campsite. The air carries the mingled scents of pine, water, and occasionally distant campfire smoke. If you’re camping in one of the premium waterfront sites, you might wake to the gentle sound of waves lapping at the rocky shoreline and the call of gulls wheeling overhead.

What sets Wellesley Island apart is its diversity of camping experiences. From rustic tent sites to fully-equipped cabins, from secluded forest settings to prime waterfront locations, the park offers something for every preference. The 429 campsites are arranged in separate loops, each with its own character, allowing you to select exactly the experience you’re seeking.

The island location provides endless opportunities for water-based recreation. The park features a large sandy beach perfect for swimming, multiple boat launches for exploring the St. Lawrence River, and excellent fishing opportunities right from shore. For nature enthusiasts, the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center offers educational programs and miles of interpretive trails that showcase the island’s diverse ecosystems, including a rare freshwater coastal marsh.

As evening approaches, the setting sun often creates spectacular displays over the river. The islands appear as dark silhouettes against a canvas of orange, pink, and purple that reflects off the water’s surface. After dark, the campground grows quiet except for the gentle lapping of waves and occasional distant sounds of boat traffic on the St. Lawrence Seaway. On clear nights, the stars shine brightly overhead, their light occasionally complemented by the distant flash of navigational beacons guiding ships through the channel.

Final Thoughts About Camping in New York

New York State’s diverse landscapes create camping experiences that range from mountain wilderness to Great Lakes shorelines, from island retreats to gorge-side adventures. Each campground offers its own unique magic—whether it’s paddling through interconnected Adirondack ponds, hiking alongside spectacular waterfalls, or simply enjoying perfect beach days along Lake Ontario or Lake Champlain. The Empire State truly offers something for every camping enthusiast, regardless of experience level or preferred natural setting.

When planning your New York camping adventure, remember that seasons dramatically affect the experience. The vibrant fall foliage makes campgrounds like North-South Lake and Letchworth particularly spectacular in autumn, while the swimming at Hamlin Beach and Ausable Point is best enjoyed during the warm summer months. Spring brings wildflowers and rushing waterfalls, while winter transforms select campgrounds into pristine snow-covered wonderlands for hardy cold-weather campers.

Whatever season you choose to visit, New York’s extraordinary state parks and campgrounds promise experiences filled with natural beauty, adventure, and the kind of peaceful moments that only camping can provide. From the distant honk of geese flying over Wellesley Island to the thundering power of waterfalls at Letchworth, from sunrise over Lake Champlain to sunset across the Catskill Mountains, these special places create memories that will draw you back year after year.