Camping in New York: Your Guide to the Great Outdoors

From hiking to biking to swimming, there’s a lot going on in New York once the weather warms up and nature throws open its doors. If you’re dreaming of weekends filled with campfires and lakeside sunsets, the Empire State’s campgrounds are calling your name.

Time to ditch the hotel keys and embrace the sleeping bags – some of the best camping adventures await right here in New York!

Rollins Pond Campground, Saranac Lake

Rollins Pond Campground, Saranac Lake
Rollins Pond Campground, Saranac Lake

Just northeast of Saranac Lake, Rollins Pond Campground is where peace and paddling go hand in hand. This hidden gem was created to ease the overflow from nearby Fish Creek Pond, but it quickly became a star in its own right. With nearly 300 campsites hugging the shoreline, you’ll wake up to the gentle lapping of water and the rustle of pines overhead. It’s a haven for kayakers, swimmers, and anyone who finds joy in still mornings by the water.

Watkins Glen State Park Campground, Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen State Park Campground, Watkins Glen
Watkins Glen State Park Campground, Watkins Glen

There’s magic in the mist at Watkins Glen. Tucked into the southern tip of Seneca Lake, this campground places you at the foot of a dramatic gorge that’s home to 19 waterfalls. Over 300 campsites make it easy to stay close to the action, whether you’re chasing waterfalls along the two-mile trail or unwinding beside a crackling fire. If you’re looking for Finger Lakes beauty with a dramatic twist, this is your spot.

Kring Point State Park Campground, Redwood

Kring Point State Park Campground, Redwood
Kring Point State Park Campground, Redwood

Where the St. Lawrence River meets Goose Bay, Kring Point delivers a waterfront wonderland for campers craving aquatic views. With nearly half the campsites perched right by the water, you’ll find yourself watching the sunrise from your tent flap. This northern New York favorite is perfect for fishing, paddling, and kicking back as the breeze rolls in from both shores.

Wildwood State Park Campground, Wading River

Wildwood State Park Campground, Wading River
Wildwood State Park Campground, Wading River

Nestled along the Long Island Sound, Wildwood State Park offers the best of both forest and seashore. Its 600 acres are draped in thick woods, while just beyond the trees lie two miles of sandy beach waiting to be explored. The 10 miles of hiking trails will keep you moving, and come summer, the outdoor movie nights are a nostalgic treat. It’s a family favorite with room to roam.

Moose River Plains, Inlet

Moose River Plains, Inlet
Moose River Plains, Inlet

If the phrase “off the grid” makes your heart race, Moose River Plains is your kind of camping. It’s remote, it’s rugged, and best of all—it’s free. Tucked along Route 28 in the Adirondacks, this no-frills paradise offers about 140 campsites surrounded by wild terrain. First come, first serve, with your own picnic table and the star-studded sky as your nightlight—what more could you ask for?

North-South Lake Campground, Haines Falls

North-South Lake Campground, Haines Falls
North-South Lake Campground, Haines Falls

In the heart of the Catskills, North-South Lake is where mountain meets meadow. This sprawling campground has lakeside views, wooded hideaways, and easy access to scenic stunners like Kaaterskill Falls. With over 200 sites for tents and trailers, it’s a popular launch point for hikes into the wild green yonder. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or roasting marshmallows, this spot delivers classic Catskills charm.

Cranberry Lake State Campground, Cranberry Lake

Cranberry Lake State Campground, Cranberry Lake
Cranberry Lake State Campground, Cranberry Lake

One of the Adirondacks’ largest remote lakes cradles this quiet, wooded escape. With over 170 campsites tucked among the trees, you’ll have all the solitude you crave—plus miles of hiking trails, ponds to paddle, and prime fishing spots. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and mornings start with birdsong and mist rising off the lake.

Letchworth State Park Campground, Castile

Letchworth State Park Campground, Castile
Letchworth State Park Campground, Castile

Dubbed the Grand Canyon of the East, Letchworth State Park is nothing short of breathtaking. Here, campsites and cabins come with front-row seats to gorges, waterfalls, and a river carving its way through ancient rock. There are 66 miles of trails to tackle, whitewater to raft, and even hot air balloon rides if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s nature turned up to eleven.

Hither Hills State Park Campground, Montauk

Hither Hills State Park Campground, Montauk
Hither Hills State Park Campground, Montauk
Hither Hills State Park Campground, Montauk

Perched on the edge of Long Island in Montauk, Hither Hills is your oceanside oasis. With more than 160 campsites just steps from a two-mile stretch of beach, you’ll be lulled to sleep by the sound of crashing waves. It’s equal parts beach vacation and camping adventure, perfect for sun-chasers and salt-air seekers alike.

Glimmerglass State Park Campground, Cooperstown

Glimmerglass State Park Campground, Cooperstown

A stone’s throw from Cooperstown and nestled against Otsego Lake, Glimmerglass State Park is a quiet woodland hideout with all the fixings for a classic camping weekend. Fire pits, picnic tables, and lake swimming come standard. And don’t miss the Hyde Hall Covered Bridge—it’s like stepping into a fairytale. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone needing a peaceful reset under the pines.