New York might be famous for the city, but beyond the concrete jungle you’ll discover some of the most incredible camping spots in the Northeast. From the thundering waterfalls of the Finger Lakes to the towering peaks of the Adirondacks to the dramatic gorges of Letchworth, New York’s campgrounds offer something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper who can set up a tent blindfolded or a first-timer who’s never toasted a marshmallow, we’ve got you covered. Let’s take a look at the state’s best campgrounds and what makes them worth visiting.
1. Letchworth State Park
Looking for a campground in New York that’ll take your breath away? Letchworth State Park isn’t called the “Grand Canyon of the East” for nothing! With dramatic 600-foot cliffs and three stunning waterfalls along the Genesee River, this place is pure magic.
You’ll find over 270 campsites spread across 14,350 acres of pristine forest, with both electric and non-electric sites available. Each site comes with a picnic table and fire ring. Love to hit the trails? You’re in luck! The park boasts 66 miles of trails perfect for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. And when winter rolls around, these same trails transform into a wonderland for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
2. Watkins Glen State Park
Ever dreamed of camping near waterfalls? At Watkins Glen State Park in the gorgeous Finger Lakes region, you can do just that! With over 300 campsites, this spot puts you right next to the park’s crown jewel which is a magnificent gorge trail featuring 19 waterfalls. The campground doesn’t skimp on comfort either, offering hot showers, flush toilets, and electric hookups at select sites.
The famous Gorge Trail is a must-do, winding its way over and under waterfalls with views of 200-foot cliffs that’ll make your jaw drop. Plus, you’re right near Seneca Lake if you want to go swimming or boating, and the surrounding Finger Lakes Wine Country is perfect for afternoon exploring.
3. Lake George Escape
If you’re looking for one of the best campgrounds in New York for keeping the whole family entertained, Lake George Escape is your spot! Spread across 175 woodsy acres next to Adirondack Park, this place is basically a summer camp for all ages.
We’re talking two heated pools, kids’ programs, sports courts, and daily activities to keep everyone busy. And the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down because there’s nightly entertainment with live music and DJs. Bringing your four-legged friend? They’ll love the huge dog park. Plus, you’re just a hop and skip from Six Flags Great Escape & Hurricane Harbor and Lake George Village for even more adventure.
4. Harriman State Park
Need to escape the city without going too far? Harriman State Park is your answer! As New York’s second-largest state park, it offers a whopping 47,527 acres of pure wilderness just north of the Big Apple. With over 200 miles of hiking trails and sites starting at just $15 per night, it’s perfect for weekend warriors.
The coolest part? The trails connect to the Appalachian Trail, so you can tackle anything from a quick day hike to an epic backpacking adventure.
5. Hither Hills State Park
Want to fall asleep to the sound of ocean waves? Hither Hills State Park on Long Island’s eastern tip is your dream come true. With more than 160 campsites and two miles of ocean beach, you get the best of both worlds – camping and beach life!
Whether you’re in a tent or RV, you’ll be able to enjoy amazing Atlantic Ocean views. Spend your days swimming, surfing, or fishing, or hit the trails for some coastal hiking and biking. Plus, you’re right near Montauk if you’re craving a bit of civilization.
6. Taughannock Falls State Park
How about camping near a waterfall that’s actually taller than Niagara Falls? That’s what you’ll find at Taughannock Falls State Park in the Finger Lakes region. Choose from tent sites, RV spots, or one of 16 cozy cabins – all with easy access to the park’s star attraction, the 215-foot waterfall.
The bonus? You’re right on Cayuga Lake, perfect for swimming and boating when you need to cool off. The hiking trails here give you some seriously spectacular views of both the falls and gorge.
7. Four Mile Creek State Park
Want to visit Niagara Falls without the tourist crowds? Four Mile Creek State Park is your answer! Just 15 minutes from the Falls, this campground in New York is a hidden gem that offers killer views of Lake Ontario (which is best seen from their 10 premium waterfront sites).
Explore hiking trails along woody bluffs, watch wildlife in the marsh, and snag discounted tickets to nearby attractions like Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds. It’s the perfect home base for your Niagara adventure!
8. Old Forge Camping Resort
If you’re camping with kids who need constant entertainment, Old Forge Camping Resort has you covered! Located in the heart of the Adirondacks, this campground is right next to Enchanted Forest Water Safari and Calypso’s Cove (with free shuttle service and discounted tickets!).
Choose from basic tent sites to fully loaded RV spots, complete with modern amenities like showers and a handy camp store. When you’re not hitting the water parks, you’ve got the entire Adirondacks as your playground for hiking, paddling, and biking.
9. Allegany State Park
Here’s one of our favorites! As New York’s largest state park, Allegany State Park delivers with over 65,000 acres of gorgeous forested valleys and more than 300 campsites spread across two areas (Red House and Quaker). The best part? It won’t break the bank, with rates from just $18 to $31 per night. You get two sandy beaches, paved bike paths, fishing spots, lakes, and even two museums to explore.
10. Verona Beach State Park
Looking for a unique camping experience in New York? Verona Beach State Park on Oneida Lake might be your perfect match. With 46 sites (including 11 with sweet water views), this park is a nature lover’s paradise.
The “Woods and Wetland” nature trail takes you through some seriously cool ecosystems like cattail marshes and hardwood swamps. Plus, you’re just a short drive from the impressive 167-foot Chittenango Falls!
11. HTR Niagara
HTR Niagara Campground, is a campground in New York that’s located on Grand Island just minutes from Niagara Falls. The campground is on 70 acres and features spacious RV sites, tent camping, cabins, and yurts, as well as a heated swimming pool, mini-golf, and a stocked lake for fishing.
It’s a great spot if you’re looking for family-friendly activities like ziplines across an 8-acre lake, nature trails, and a variety of events. Its strategic location between Buffalo and Niagara Falls makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s attractions.
Bonus: Cooperstown Shadow Brook
Baseball fan? You’ll hit a home run with Cooperstown Shadow Brook Campground! This 20-acre gem sits surrounded by mountains and rolling hills, complete with a three-acre catch-and-release fishing pond, heated pool, arcade, and recreation center.
Weekly family activities keep things interesting, and you’re just a stone’s throw from the National Baseball Hall of Fame, The Farmers’ Museum, and Brewery Ommegang. Talk about a perfect family vacation spot!
When To Visit These Campgrounds
Planning your camping trip at the right time can make or break your outdoor adventure! Let’s break down what you can expect during each season in New York’s gorgeous outdoors.
Spring (March to May)
Spring camping can be a bit of a weather rollercoaster in New York, but you’ll get stunning wildflowers and fewer crowds! Early spring still brings freezing nights and muddy conditions from melting snow, so March might be a bit ambitious. By mid-April to May, you’ll start hitting that sweet spot where daytime temperatures typically range from 50-65°F, though nights can still dip into the 30s. Pack those layers!
Regional Tip: The Finger Lakes region tends to warm up earlier than the Adirondacks, making spots like Watkins Glen and Taughannock Falls great spring camping destinations.
Summer (June to August)
Peak camping season brings warm, sunny days perfect for swimming and hiking! Daytime temperatures usually hover between 75-85°F, while nights cool down to a comfortable 55-65°F. But heads up, the Adirondacks and Catskills can be about 10 degrees cooler than lower elevations. Summer also brings afternoon thunderstorms, so having a good tent rain fly is crucial.
Regional Tip: Coastal areas like Hither Hills State Park get cooling ocean breezes, making them more comfortable during hot spells.
Fall (September to October)
Fall might just be New York’s camping sweet spot! September and October bring crisp, clear days (usually 55-70°F) and cool nights (40-50°F). The fall colors are absolutely spectacular, especially in the Adirondacks and Finger Lakes regions. Plus, the summer crowds thin out, and those pesky mosquitoes start disappearing.
Regional Tip: The Adirondacks typically see peak fall colors in late September, while areas further south peak in mid-October.
Winter (November to February)
Winter camping in New York isn’t for everyone, but don’t write it off! While most campgrounds close for the season, some like Letchworth State Park stay open for hardy winter campers. Expect daytime highs around 20-35°F and nighttime lows that can dip below 0°F. Snow is pretty much guaranteed, especially in the higher elevations.
Regional Tip: The Lake Ontario region gets significant lake-effect snow, so winter camping near Four Mile Creek or Verona Beach requires serious cold-weather gear.
Conclusion
There you have it! From family-friendly spots with all the amenities to secluded sites where you can truly unplug, New York has a number of great campgrounds for you to get a break from city life.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your tent, pack those s’mores supplies, and get ready to discover why New York is a camper’s paradise.
We’ll see you at the campfire!
