The 5 Best Places to Camp in New York State

When you think of New York you may think of the hustle and bustle of downtown New York City. But if you want to get away from the bright lights and city life, New York has many peaceful, beautiful retreats, right near the city and in New York State. Pack your sleeping bag or back out the camper, here are the 5 best places to camp in New York this summer!

1) Niagara Falls Campground & Lodging

Until you see Niagara Falls in person, it is hard to understand the magnitude of the amount of water that plunges over the falls! Visiting Niagara Falls on the American side offers great views of both the Horseshoe falls and Bridal Veil Falls. You can hike down to the Niagara Gorge on the Cave of the Winds tour where you can experience the hurricane-like bottom of the Bridal Veil Falls (rain ponchos provided). Maybe you want to take the Maid of the Mist boat tour to experience the full force of the falls or try a helicopter ride over the falls to witness how a seemingly slow-moving river can come crashing down over the falls.

The closest campground to Niagara Falls is only 6 miles away and has all the amenities you need. There are 67 RV sites with full hookups and 8 tent sites with electricity and water. Enjoy a splash in the pool, stop by the gift shop, or cook up some s’mores by your campfire.

2) Lake Erie State Park

Located on the south shores of Lake Erie, the Lake Erie State Park offers hiking trails, access to the lake, picnicking, and fishing. Anglers fish for sunfish, yellow perch, white bass, small-and largemouth bass, and walleyes. The campground is situated on a bluff overlooking the lake with the perfect place to watch the sunset over the waters of Lake Erie. There are 99 RV/Tent sites, some with electric/water, and 10 cabins available to rent. Have some fun at the volleyball court, basketball court, or try the 18-hole disc golf. Definitely one of the best places to camp in New York this summer!

3) Hither Hills State Park, Long Island

Imagine stepping out of your camper and walking a block to the sandy beach. If this appeals, then staying at Hither Hills State Park on Long Island is the best place to camp. The 189-site campground is right across from the beach. The ocean beach is perfect for swimming, walking in the sand, jogging and sport fishing. There are flounder, scup, triggerfish, striped bass, and blues that you can catch right from shore. Deep sea fishing tours are also available for an exciting day trip. You can also visit The Napeague Bird Conservation Area where you will see least terns, piping plovers, osprey and maybe even a short-eared owl. The conservation area provides a safe place for these birds to nest and thrive. Hither Hills State Park and campground is a  great getaway for the New York native or visitor!

4) Gateway National Recreation Area, Camp Gateway

To really get away from it all try tent camping at Gateway National Recreation Area at Camp Gateway. The National Recreation area spreads across New York and New Jersey (the Staten Island campground is closed for the summer of 2022 so head over to the New Jersey side to stay at Camp Gateway-Sandy Hook). No cars are allowed at the campsites but don’t worry, it’s only a short hike to the campsites. Each campsite has a picnic table, fire ring, charcoal grill, and food storage container. There are restrooms and water available but no electricity or showers.

Use Camp Gateway as a home base to enjoy all the activities in the park like the beautiful beaches for swimming, surfing, kayaking, windsurfing, kite-boarding, or hiking in the sand. Hike to the North Beach Observation Deck for a picnic, where you’ll find tables and a view of New York Harbor. Then head over to the Visitor Center at Keeper’s Quarters where you can learn about the piping plovers, American woodcock, and oystercatcher. Keep an eye out for these birds and other wildlife while taking the lighthouse tour. With such a variety of activities, this really is one of the best places to camp this summer!

5) Catskill Mountains, North-South Lake Campground

About two hours north of New York City is the Catskills in Greene County. There are a few great options for camping in the Catskill Mountains, some with spectacular views with others right on the water. You can hike to Kaaterskill Falls, try mountain bike trails, or enjoy the day kayaking on the lake. Bring your fishing gear to fish for brown bullhead, pumpkinseed, largemouth bass, and black crappie. The most popular campground in the Catskills is the North-South Lake Campground with 219 sites and access to both the North and South Lakes. Both lakes have beautiful beaches and boat access for kayaking, canoeing, or SUP’s. Another one of the best places to camp in New York this summer!

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The photo featured at the top of this post is © YingHui Liu/Shutterstock.com