Are you the type of person or family that enjoys really reconnecting with nature when going on a vacation, bypassing all the luxury and comforts provided by modern day hotels and resorts, and prefers to just “rough it”?
The Catskill Mountains in New York may become your new favorite travel destination. You may not be aware, but the Catskills have a plethora of campsites to enjoy. Whether you want to go tent camping or even RV camping, you can find the top Catskills campgrounds for outdoors travel here.
ROUGHING IT
Let’s start with the most primitive camping currently available. This has also been referred to as “backcountry camping” and refers to the more rugged approach. This is definitely not for the faint of heart or novices to camping. With this there are no luxuries and no amenities. It’s you, your tent, and whatever else you can carry in a hiking backpack. There will be no electricity (so you will not have your cell phone available anytime you want) and there’ll be no toilet stalls or toilet paper (unless you bring your own and use it wisely). There are also special laws/rules for those planning to embark on this type of camping trip, so make sure to do your research prior to just heading out and pitching a tent.
Devil’s Tombstone Campground
This campground offers access to the infamous Devil’s Path Trail, which is 21 miles long and full of twists and turns and who knows what else. You’ll definitely be able to enjoy some fresh air and will allow you to check out multiple summits including Indian Head, Sugarloaf, Hunter and Twin. If you decide to camp here, make sure to use precaution if you’re going to venture out into the hiking trails. There are lots of animals you may come across including bears and snakes and many steep inclines/declines to deal with.
Phoenicia-Mt. Tobias Wild Forest
If you’re looking for a campground that has access to it all and is perfect for a multi-day trip, Phoenicia-Mt. Tobias Wild Forest may be the one for you. This location will provide you access to three of the major Catskill Wilderness areas: Hunter-West Kill, Indian Head Mountain, and Slide Mountain. This forest is over 7,300 square acres of wild waiting to be explored. If you’ve put together an idea of what a true camping experience should be, this place provides that and more. You can visit the Tremper Mountain Fire Tower and gaze out at the beautiful, and highest, Catskill Mountain peaks. Another bonus is hunting and trapping is allowed here, too, depending on the season.
RV AND TENT CAMPING
If you’re not wanting that intense of a camping trip and would still like some small luxuries the following may be better suited for you. These provide at least some basic amenities like cabin rentals, bathrooms and some power outlets. These also offer RV Camping spots, so if that’s your style, you can enjoy that in these listed below.
Roscoe Campsite Park
You can enjoy pitching your tent, or renting a cabin, right on the bank of the famous Beaverkill River. They also rent out kayaks and other water objects for fun out on the river. For those that find it hard to disconnect, you will be happy to know they even have cable, and yes, wifi at this campground. You’ll be far from roughing it here at Roscoe Campsite Park, but you will still be able to head outside and spend some time out in the beautiful nature.
Bear Spring Mountain Campground
This is one that caters to those that enjoy outdoor sports like hiking, biking, and skiing. This state park was specifically made to focus on those that enjoy horseback riding, too. It’s over 7,100 acres of wilderness and it can bring out the nature lover in even the biggest city slicker. The hunting and fishing is amazing here, too, if you’re into that kind of sport. This is also a good option for those that are traveling with the family. There are playgrounds, picnic tables, paddle boat and kayak rentals, and over 24 miles of trails to check out.
GLAMPING
Let’s face it, some of us may view camping as too barbaric, but still want to try it, or at least a version of it. That’s where “Glamping” comes in. Glamour Camping is where you get to stay in a nice, upper-class tent or cabin with amenities like hot water, privacy, and an actual bed and then venture out into the great outdoors if and when you feel like it. Below are a couple of the top places to get your glamping on and be able to say you’ve been camping before.
Woodstock Meadows
Woodstock Meadows is basically a hotel room in the wild. This is for adults only and you’re able to rent a fully furnished tent (around $200/night) and have acres upon acres of wild to enjoy. You can see the giant fire pit and even watch the beautiful sunset from your bed. You will have power provided by the wind and sun and robes are included, too. This is not only glamping at its finest, but it’s also an utterly romantic getaway to enjoy with someone you really like to be around.
Blue Hills Farm Tent & Breakfast
At the Blue Hills Farm Tent & Breakfast you can rest assured that you’ll not only get the relaxation you so desperately need, but you will have some of the best views in all the Catskills. You’ll have access to a private bathroom including a shower with relaxing spa jets. The best part is you will get to have breakfast in a tree house. How many people can say that they’ve done that? Afterwards you can enjoy a dip in the Delaware River or a quick hike and then head back to your canvas tent to relax the night away.
Camping is not that same as it was just a couple of decades ago. As you can see there are many different options when it comes to camping these days. There’s literally a style for all types of people, which is good because everyone should be able to just getaway sometimes and enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer, or at least as much as they want to. It is important, not to mention therapeutic, to disconnect sometimes and have a chance to breathe some fresh air.
YOU READY?
If you’re feeling overly stressed, or looking for a unique experience that will help you unwind and maybe even burn some calories, a quick camping trip may be just the ticket. If you’re already packing up your tent and Off bug spray, just know that right now is the perfect time to start planning your next camping trip to the Catskill Mountains. Every season has an optimal time to travel to the Catskills so it’s really about getting out there and doing it. Make sure to do your research and find the best camping site in the Catskills before just heading out.
Oh and one more thing, no matter the camping experience you’re looking for, you’ll definitely want to pack the graham crackers, Hershey bars, and marshmallows because rumor has it that there is nothing better in the world than homemade s’mores around the campfire in the Catskill Mountains. You can decide for yourself when you get here. What are you waiting for?!