When you think of New York, you think about the hustle and bustle of city life. You imagine people rushing across the street with to-go coffee cups in their hands, going off to work. Sometimes, you just want to get away from the tall concrete jungles and connect with nature. You need to experience the green pastures and maybe take a dip in a cold lake.
What better way to do all of that than to go on a family camping trip? Now, you might be thinking, where can I camp in New York? Well, you’ve stumbled to the right place. If you’re thinking of camping in upstate New York, the following options will make your family vacation phenomenal.
Before we discuss luxury glamping sites in upstate New York, let’s see what boxes we need to tick before we pick a place.
What To Look For While Planning A Family Camping Trip In New York
Clean Bathrooms
Clean and well-maintained bathrooms and showers are the most important things when it comes to tent camping. This applies not only to those without RVs but also to campers exploring the parks while using their RV bathrooms.
Kids’ Areas
If you’re traveling with children, organized activities for children are a nice option. Playgrounds and kid-friendly hiking trails are important amenities to consider for families camping with young children. That way, your kids can stay busy while you get to relax.
Campsite Privacy
This is perhaps one of the most important factors. You don’t want to feel cramped or surrounded by neighboring campers when you’re trying to enjoy this quiet time with your family. While it may not replicate a remote wilderness experience, campsites that offer some privacy allow you to enjoy a sense of seclusion.
Now that you know what things to look for, let’s check out some of the fun places to go in NYC for the best camping experience.
Where To Camp In Upstate New York
1. Seneca Lake
Save yourself the time of going around New York and looking for a good campsite. Go to Seneca Lake instead. Family Camp Weekend at Camp Seneca Lake offers the best activities, like organized games, watersports, ropes courses, and more. It’s a great way to reconnect with your family and unwind with the stunning nature that surrounds you. Families can enjoy three meals a day, supervised childcare, and adult-only activities like yoga and wine and cheese receptions. So, you and your kids can have the best time here.
2. Crown Point Campgrounds
Crown Point Campgrounds is located in Adirondack Park on the Champlain Lakeshore. This area has historical sites, natural scenery, and amenities for families. Some fun family activities include boating, fishing, hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. You can also find picnic tables, bathrooms with showers, electric points, and tent and RV options.
3. Whiteface KOA
One of the pros of living in New York is that the city is surrounded by beautiful and scenic lakes. Lake Placid is one of these lakes, and it happens to be near Whiteface, an amazing campground. It provides RV sites, tent sites, and cabins for rent. You and your family can enjoy fishing, beach access, hiking, and boating.
4. Lake George Camping Village
This serene camping village is located near Lake George and Lake George Village. It’s a family-owned campground that has a close-knit atmosphere. Some of the amenities include heated pools (open during summer), playgrounds, a game room, sports courts, nature trails, outdoor movies, and enhanced Wi-Fi. The campground accommodates tent campers and RVs of all sizes.
5. Glimmer Glass State Park Campgrounds
These campsites are located at Otsego Lake near Cooperstown, NY. The lake offers beautiful views and natural scenery. You will find so many amenities here, like RV and tent sites, BBQ grills, full bathrooms, hiking and biking trails, ski trails, a lake beach, fishing, swimming, and playgrounds. They also offer water sports like canoeing and kayaking. You can even explore the historical site of Hyde Hall within the park. Camping in upstate New York can’t get any better than this.
6. Forest Lake Camp
Forest Lake Camp gives you a summer camp experience. Families can have the time of their lives with activities such as horseback riding, whitewater rafting, waterskiing, and tubing. Each evening offers a special family activity, and there are traditional camp activities like polar bear swims and campfires. You will also find that this place offers one of the best swimming holes in New York.
7. Old Forge Camping Resort
This large resort-type campground is one of the best places to visit in New York for camping. You can find it in Old Forge, NY, which has a variety of activities and amenities for everyone. Families with kids can enjoy discounted tickets to nearby Enchanted Forest Water Safari and Calypso’s Cove, which is accessible by a free shuttle bus. The campground itself is spread over 130 wooded acres with spacious and flat campsites. The nearby lake Serene provides swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities, and there are game courts, playgrounds, and bikeable roads on-site.
8. Grand Island KOA Campgrounds
These campgrounds are located near Niagara Falls, NY. The Grand Island campsites give RVs, tents, and lodges for families. Some of the amenities include TV, free Wi-Fi, parking, kid’s activities, a banquet hall, a water pool, pet-friendly facilities, laundry, firewood, fishing, bike rentals, canoeing, and paddle boating. You can also enjoy various recreational amenities like pickleball courts and heated pools.
9. Camp Stella
Camp Stella Maris offers family weekends for the best camping experience. It overlooks Conesus Lake and is a popular getaway for local school groups, church groups, and families. They host “Daddy and Me,” “Mommy and Me,” and “Summer Family” weekends with activities suitable for children ages five and up. It should definitely be on your list of places to go for your next family getaway.
10. Cherry Plain State Park Campgrounds
Cherry Plain State Park, nestled in Petersburg, New York, not only provides a serene camping experience but also offers a glimpse into the rich history of New York. Accommodation options include tents, RVs, cabins, and lodges. The park offers amenities like fireplaces, full bathrooms, patio settings, picnic tables, and recreational activities like biking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, paddling, swimming, and access to the beach.
11. Moose Hillock Camping Resorts
Moose Hillock in Fort Ann, NY, provides a private camping experience for families. They offer spacious RV sites (no tent camping) for a tranquil camping experience. The resort has a large heated pool with waterfalls, caves, waterslides, and a sloping beach entry. You can even enjoy a movie theater, arcade, café, and proximity to attractions like Lake George, outlet malls, and Fort William Henry.
12. Willowemoc Wild Forest Yurt Campgrounds
Willowemoc Wild Forest Yurt Campgrounds are nestled in the Catskill Mountains, New York. They offer full camping accommodations with facilities like BBQ grills, fireplaces, patio settings, cooking essentials, kitchens, proper bathrooms, water, electricity, and parking areas. It’s an ideal spot for a family holiday surrounded by the natural beauty of the Catskills region and a great way of getting a break from the typically crowded tourist attractions in New York.
13. Watkins Glen State Park Six Nations Camping Area
Watkins Glen State Park is situated in the Finger Lakes region of Western New York. It offers picturesque camping and access to the Gorge Trail and Finger Lakes Trail, which has 19 waterfalls. During the summer, you can explore the gorge, enjoy fishing in Seneca Lake or Catherine Creek, and take tours.
14. Letchworth State Park Campgrounds
Letchworth State Park in Castile, New York, is set along the Genesee River and has three large waterfalls and a dense forest. The campgrounds offer cabins, tents, lodges, and RV sites. Visitors can enjoy a water pool, playgrounds, hiking and biking trails, fishing, BBQ grills, hunting, events, water rafting, and air ballooning.
15. Hither Hills State Park Campgrounds
Hither Hills State Park is a beach camping destination. The tent sites are next to the sandy beach of the Atlantic Ocean. Apart from the beach activities, you can enjoy hiking trails and fishing. The park also offers organized recreation programs for children during the summer.
16. Keen Lake Camping
If you are looking for Budget tips for visiting New York then Keen Lake Camping is your best option. It is located in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania. It has campsites for tents, RVs, and cabins. The campground gives you access to Keen Lake Beach, where you can fish and enjoy paddle and row boating. There is also a pickleball court, a gaming room, free Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities.
17. Cooperstown Beaver Valley Campground
Cooperstown Beaver Valley Campground is located in Milford. It’s a popular, family-friendly camping destination in New York. The campground offers a range of recreational activities suitable for all ages. It has an ancient fossil pit, a baseball field, and a pond. There are options for accommodation like cabins, lodges, tiny houses, tent sites, and RV sites. You can even enjoy a swimming pool, sports rooms, and self-laundry facilities.
18. Verona Beach State Park Campground
What is the best time to visit New York? Obviously summers because Verona Beach State Park Campground is one of the best spots to hangout during the sunny season. It is located in Durhamville and is known as one of the best family camping sites in New York. Located along the eastern shore of Oneida Lake, it offers a gorgeous setting with diverse water bodies, such as the lake, creek, marsh, and swamp. The campground provides campsite cabins, lodges, a swimming beach, and dining options.
19. Fahnestock State Park Campsite
Fahnestock State Park Campsite is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. With over 80 campsites, it offers breathtaking views of lakes, mountains, and forests. You can engage in activities like boating, fishing, swimming, hunting, birding, and hiking. Permits are required to fish in the lake. The campsite provides picnic tables, charcoal grills, and campfire rings. They also give opportunities for snowshoeing and skiing.
20. Kayuta Lake Campground
Situated in Forestport within the Adirondacks, Kayuta Lake Campground is a beautiful, family-friendly camping destination. The campsite is surrounded by natural beauty, including a pristine lake and wooded areas. You can enjoy the scenic views, a refreshing atmosphere, and a clean environment. The campground provides various camping facilities for an affordable vacation experience.
21. North-South Lake Campsite
You can find North-South Lake Campsite in the Catskill Forest Preserve. It’s a spacious campground that provides stunning views of lakes and high-peak mountains. You can find hiking trails, swimming areas, hunting and fishing opportunities, and boating facilities here. The campground is known for its natural beauty and is suitable for families with children. You can also enjoy tubing, go-karts, golf courses, and horse riding nearby. You may even spot a couple of renowned NYC influencers savoring the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem..
22. Herkimer Diamond KOA Resort Campground
Herkimer Diamond KOA Resort Campground is located in Herkimer, New York. It is known for its diamond mines, which were discovered over 500 years ago. This mountain resort even offers kayaking at the nearby West Canada Creek. The campground provides free Wi-Fi, campfire places, golf carts, a swimming pool, and multiple accommodation options. Pets are allowed but must be vaccinated. You can search for small diamonds and crystals on the surface and keep any findings as souvenirs. Isn’t that unique? It would serve as great memorabilia for you and your family.
23. Cayuga Lake State Park Campground
Cayuga Lake State Park Campground is located in Seneca Falls. It’s a rustic lakeside campground that offers a wonderful camping experience in upstate New York. It is an ideal destination for families to enjoy their summer holidays amidst natural beauty.
Conclusion
These are the beautiful places for which New York is known for. Your family deserves the best, and that’s exactly what you’ll get at these luxurious and scenic campsites. Now that you know the best luxury glamping sites in New York, you are all set!
They have the best amenities, privacy, and serenity, and most of them are near the best lakes in New York. So, back your car, and have the best family camping weekend!
1. How do I choose a safe campsite?
When choosing a safe campsite, consider factors like location, terrain, and weather conditions. Look for established campgrounds with proper amenities and security measures. Perhaps check for any potential hazards, such as nearby water bodies or steep cliffs. You can research reviews and ratings from other campers for insights into safety. It’s also important to follow camping regulations and practice basic safety precautions during your stay.
2. How do I plan a family camping trip?
You can start by selecting a suitable destination with family-friendly facilities and activities. While doing so, keep the interests and preferences of all family members in mind. Make a checklist of essential camping gear and supplies, like tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and food. Plan all your activities, such as hiking, fishing, or nature walks. Don’t forget to pack essentials like insect repellent, a first aid kit, and extra clothing.
3. Where can I camp in the winter in upstate NYC?
You can camp in the winter at Fahnestock Winter Park. It offers amazing winter recreational activities like snowshoeing and skiing. The park has designated camping areas where you can set up tents or park RVs during the winter season. Remember to prepare for cold weather conditions by bringing appropriate cold-weather gear, like warm clothing, sleeping bags, and insulated camping equipment.
