Best Camping in New York State

New York's camping ranges from Adirondack lean-to shelters deep in the wilderness to developed campgrounds in the Catskills and Finger Lakes. The state park system operates 180 campgrounds.

Adirondack Backcountry (Lean-to System)
The Adirondack Park has 1,000+ lean-to shelters (three-sided wooden shelters with a roof) scattered throughout 6 million acres — the largest backcountry lean-to system in the US. No reservation needed for most; first-come, first-served. The High Peaks Wilderness requires a summit permit during peak season (May–October). The Northville-Placid Trail (130 miles) passes through remote country accessible to multi-day hikers.

Letchworth State Park
The "Grand Canyon of the East" has 270 campsites plus cabins and glamping options. The campground sits in the woods above the gorge — a short walk to the rim views. This is one of New York's most popular state parks, particularly in fall when the foliage fills the canyon. Reserve months in advance.

Watkins Glen State Park
Camping at the rim of the spectacular Watkins Glen gorge, one of the Finger Lakes' signature landscapes. The 10 miles of trails through the gorge pass 19 waterfalls — a density matched by few places in the state.

Saranac Lake Islands
The Saint Regis Canoe Area in the Adirondacks has 58 primitive island campsites accessible only by canoe or kayak. This is among the finest flatwater canoe camping in the eastern US — remote, quiet, and surrounded by old-growth forest. A permit is required for the wilderness islands.

Caumsett State Park (Long Island)
The largest undeveloped stretch of Long Island's North Shore, Caumsett is primarily a day-use park but offers primitive camping for groups. The saltmarsh, beech forest, and rocky beach environment is very different from the typical Long Island experience.