The best camping near Thacher State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Thacher State Park adventure.

63% (4 reviews)
63% (4 reviews)

Tread well when you visit this beautiful countryside filled with history in eastern New York.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Thacher State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Thacher State Park

100%
(190)

Upper Shire Campsites Hudson Valley

6 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres ¡ Hillsdale, NY
The Upper Shire Private Campsites in the Hudson Valley are on a gorgeous hill with a small pond surrounded by 22 acres of an old horse ranch. It is located in Columbia County near the Massachusetts and New York border. There are currently 5 unique camping areas located here. Each one is special due to its location on the hill. Check out our map and enjoy our spacious yet secluded campsites and our new off-grid double shower shack with hot and cold water on demand. This place has a relaxed atmosphere and is located near Catamount Ski Resort, Bash Bish Falls, Taconic State Park, Hudson NY, and Great Barrington, MA. If you plan on bringing a pet please be sure to add that fee to your booking under "extras" ($25) If you have additional guest(s) that would like to join you that fee is ($25 a night per person) and you will need to message us about how to arrange that. We have extra easy pop-up two-person tents available to rent ($15 for two nights) you can also find that option under "extras" along with bundles of firewood ($15)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$76.50
 / night
100%
(40)

Locust Grove Waterfall

1 site ¡ Lodging2 acres ¡ Oak Hill, NY
Fall asleep to the sounds of the waterfall on the Catskill creek! Escape the chaos - find peace and solace among the Catskill mountains. Located directly on the Catskill creek in the hamlet of Oak Hill, you'll be sleeping to the sounds of the waterfall just steps from the site. At the foot of the waterfall is your own personal swimming hole. Take advantage of the multiple hammock relaxation stations throughout the property and swimming in the creek. If you're up for a walk, the infamous Yellow Deli is just a mile down the road. We're just a few minutes away from Windham Mountain and various trails if you're the hiking type. Check out our "Must See" list in the tent for suggestions on places to enjoy during your stay. This campsite features a queen size bed for two. Site guidelines Bring loads of extra blankets and warm clothing. Boots are a must. Although the driveway is kept clear, car should ideally be AWD or 4WD depending on weather conditions. Consult your campkeeper. Let your campkeeper know when you are arriving so we can light up entry for you. Cleanup all common spaces when you leave. But, make yourself at home. Video Footage of the site - Instagram - @locustgroveny ***We have added a second full size glamping tent, the same size as the main tent with a queen size bed. This is only available to you when you book this site with a capacity of more than 2 people, it will never be rented to anyone else when you are there. ***Coming spring/summer of 2025 we will be launching the official opening of our food truck onsite - come and enjoy a taco during your stay!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night
95%
(153)

Sacred Waterfall & Quiet Camping

46 sites ¡ Lodging25 acres ¡ Middleburgh, NY
NOTE: THIS IS A QUIET CAMPING AREA for reconnecting with nature. Not suitable for parties or loud groups. Kahonrakén:ra, The White Spiral Waterfall, is a world unto itself. For generations, the majestic waterfall has been revered for its spectacular beauty and power. It is considered a sacred site that has been central to local land rematriation work with the Kanienkeha:ka, also known as the Mohawks, the original inhabitants of Ioskóhare, the Schoharie Valley. Coursing between two outcroppings in a deep ravine, Kahonrakén:ra Waterfall crashes down over mossy rock shelves into a hidden pool, which then empties again into the river, running into emerald swimming holes and through dramatic clay beds. The effect is transporting. Truly, it is one of those extraordinarily beautiful spots on earth that makes you feel like you are in another world. There are two tiny cabins on the property. They are both accessed by separate footpaths through the forest, below an old red barn, surrounded by ash and walnut trees, singing birds, deer, wildflowers, and wild medicines. One cabin is in the forest, just beyond a grass circle clearing. The other is down the hill through a wildflower grove. Both sites have extra space to set up a tent if needed. The Forest Cabin is insulated with hemp, has electric lights and outlets, is bigger inside with a work desk, has Anderson crank out windows, has a bigger deck, and has two twin mattresses under the bed if you need them. The Wildflower Cabin is a bit deeper in the forest, a little smaller, uninsulated with two walls of old-school wood-pane windows that open out to the forest completely, one twin mattress under the bed and a powerstrip for light electric use. Both sites have private fire pits, solar shower stalls, fans for cooling and an oil filled electric heater for chilly nights. We do not allow partying. There is a profound healing process happening at the waterfall. At the request of the original caretakers, we ask that you to respect the sacredness of this land. Thank you! It's about a 10 minute hike down the gorge to the waterfall from the campsites. Each campsite has a private path down to the waterfall, where you can spend the day swimming, exploring the clay beds and looking for fossils in the 280 million year old gorge. In the evening, make a campfire at your fire pit and fall asleep under the stars listening to the waterfall and the river below. Be aware that the hike is steep and appropriate footwear is required. All hiking is at your own risk. Although your path to the waterfall is private and the waterfall is on private property, there may be other guests or locals that access the waterfall further down the road. There is no glass or alcohol allowed at the falls. Please be aware that you may hear your camping neighbors in the woods. For this reason, we ask that you don’t play amplified music and to keep noise down after 10pm so that your camping and local neighbors can chillax and enjoy the evening sounds of frogs, crickets, owls, and night songs of the countryside that makes Schoharie so special. In the big red barn at the entrance to the campsites there is a community room with a charging station, cold water sink, mini fridge, coffee maker, grills, and a port-a-potty for your use. There are also 5 gallon solar shower bags that you can use at your campsite. You are responsible for filling them and putting them in the sun to heat the water. :) This is a leave no trace campsite. Please take all your trash with you when you leave. And please bring your own biodegradable soap for dishes and toilet paper for the port-a-potty! Firewood is available onsite for $1 per log. Instructions for payment are in the community room next to the red silo at the barn. The wood is stacked at next to the red shed just uphill from the barn. You can also buy your own fire wood en route. We recommend that you buy kindling at the gas station on your way in. The Schoharie Valley is said to be the most fertile valley east of the Mississippi. It is still wild, unspoiled country and there are many local farms with fresh produce and organic meat within 5 miles of the house. There are several farm stands and a general store a few miles away, Scrumpy Ewe Cidery, Panther Creek Arts, and the Sap Bush Country Store and Café just up the hill in West Fulton. Mustang Valley, a wild mustang sanctuary and rescue center, is just down the road. Nearby hikes include Looking Glass Pond and Vroman's Nose, among many others.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$96
 / night
94%
(399)

Dreamland

3 sites ¡ Tents18 acres ¡ Saugerties, NY
Our woodland property bordering the Esopus creek is a serene and picturesque oasis nestled in the heart of the Mid Hudson Valley. While surrounded by lush forest, it offers easy access to hiking trails that wind through the natural beauty of the area, dinning and civilization (you'll even hear the train from time to time). But our property is more than just a gateway to outdoor adventures; it's a place of tranquility and natural wonder that deserves our utmost respect. With its close proximity to all the fun things the Hudson Valley has to offer, it's the perfect retreat for those seeking a harmonious blend of outdoor exploration and relaxation in a beautiful, pristine forest setting. DreamLand aka: Mugwort Express, boasts three enchanting campsites to choose from, each offering a unique experience. 1 - The Original Site: This campsite is perfect for adventurers who want quick access to the great outdoors. Wake up, jump in the car and hit the road for the great Catskills trails. It's the flattest site and the closets to parking, with under 1 minute walk to your car. 2 - Swing Side: Surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, this campsite immerses you in the heart of our beautiful forest. It's the ideal choice for nature enthusiasts seeking a secluded and serene experience. Also with under 1 minute walk to your car. 3 - The RiverView: Nestled on a ridge some 80 feet above the river's edge, this campsite provides a tranquil escape with the soothing sounds of flowing water. It's our most adventurous site to get to with a good 10 to 15 minute "medium-difficulty" trek to get... A beautiful trek, not a leisurely stroll (Hint: pack light) but well worth the effort! No matter which campsite you choose, our property invites you to connect with nature, relax, and make lasting memories in this stunning woodland retreat.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$38
 / night
95%
(48)

Hickory Hollow

2 sites ¡ Tents9 acres ¡ Catskill, NY
Welcome to Hickory Hollow! Located 7 minutes from the Town of Catskill, 25 minutes from Hudson, and just under the Catskill Mountains, Hickory Hollow is the perfect campsite to take full advantage of the Upper Hudson Valley. There are two campsites you can chose from, both in clearings that make for great star gazing. Camp 1 is deeper into the forest taking about two minutes to walk to from the parking area. Camp site 2 is only a one minute walk but much closer to the farm. If you are coming with a dog, I would recommend staying at Camp site 1, as the farms dogs are very vocal when there are new friends in the area. Each campsite comes with a fire pit, a grate for cooking, and a picnic table. There is parking provided and a composting outhouse. You will need to bring your own firewood, though there is plenty of available kindling. The property is 9 acres and I encourage guests to hike down to the stream and take a walk if they feel comfortable. If not there are so many hiking/swimming options nearby and I am happy to point you in the right direction. This property has a been a life long dream of mine, and is (in my opinion) the most beautiful place on earth. That being said there is a still a lot of work that I am doing since this is a very new endeavor. So please watch yourself if you do decide to stay. The Hollow is beautiful but also very steep, so please be careful while you walk the woods. Pets are welcome, but again, be safe. There is an abundance of wildlife in the Hollow (see if you can spot the porcupine) but that can be very distracting for dogs, so be cautious when letting them off lead. Check out https://www.instagram.com/0hickoryhollow/ for photos of the progress.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
95%
(22)

The Catskill And Chill

1 site ¡ Lodging8 acres ¡ Catskill, NY
Located In upstate New York is this hidden gem. This camper was old school, now turned new. With a full renovation to give it a Scandinavian look in the front, and a cozy cabin feel in the bedroom. This will give you a unique experience different from the normal camper your used to! Also at your campsite there is a firepit, garden hose,(not available during the winter)and a 8x8 hammock perfect to stargaze in! We are now offering kindling firewood with fire starter and matches. Feel free to reserve your own firewood. $10 *PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE BOOKING* I want to be transparent with you guys on the property and size of the camper! -The camper is very small only 21ft. The average height clearance is 6'2" so if you are tall this may not be for you. (I'm 5'9" and its comfortable for me) -If you are a bigger person this may feel too tight for you especially in the bathroom area -The bed is a full size some couples may feel that this is to small for them. -A hot shower will last about 15 minutes once it is heated up. -In the summertime there is bugs some may get into the camper. We do treat the area with safe bug spray but it may not fully prevent them. -There are two other tiny houses and a main house on the property. They are far apart but the main house is close. We have a privacy fence that fully blocks the house. So you are still very private but you are not fully secluded. -In case of fire There is a fire blanket, fire extinguisher, and a smoke/carbon monoxide detector inside the camper. The bedroom door is only to be used as an emergency fire exit. (Door is locked from the outside but unlocked from the inside) There is also a water cannon outside for outdoor fires. Please be responsible with all fires! -If you want to cancel you must cancel within 24 hours of booking then I will issue a full refund. Any time after that its a strict policy and no refund will be issued. Thank you for reading this I want to make sure everyone is aware and knows what to expect. Its still an awesome place and people love it! Hope this helps! OTHER AMMENDITIES INCLUDED: Bottled water Wifi Heating Air conditioning Fan and air purifier First Aid kit Fire extinguisher, fire blanket, water cannon Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm Microwave Coffee and Tea Coffee maker/Kettle Fridge Toaster Cooking utensils Games Binoculars (stays on property) Fresh linens provided Toiletries Body wash, shampoo, conditioner Water heater(6 Gallon) Tv (with streaming apps)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$100
 / night
97%
(769)

Wyomanock Farm

32 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents75 acres ¡ Stephentown, NY
PLEASE Note! All water will be shut off after October 13 until the 2025 season. Our 75 acres is a wonderful, diverse mix of habitat, harmoniously integrated with our small farm. This land was the homestead of the very first caucasian settler of the area, John Wiley, in 1787. Before that, it was the land of the Mahican native Americans. They named it "valley of the butternut trees", or Wyomanock. The Wyomanock Creek is the backbone of this little valley. Beaver have dammed the creek at several points to create ponds and other wetland features that support a diversity of wildlife including otter, moose and a myriad of birds, from osprey to herons. This sanctuary is host to many uncommon native plants and plant communities. We would love to share it with you! Your host, Thom, invites you to property to explore 75 acres of meadows, woods and water. Choose one of several sites either in the woods or open areas. You are also free to use our outdoor solar shower or take a dip in the cold pond! Our location is convenient to the Berkshire Mountains, state parks, hiking and other attractions, including Ramble Wild tree to tree adventures and Jiminy Peak. There are a few miles of rail trail access just down the road.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
100%
(24)

Riverhaven

1 site ¡ Lodging2 acres ¡ Woodford, VT
Secluded Riverside Cabin in Vermont – A Cozy Escape into Nature Escape to our riverside cabin, just feet from a crystal-clear, trout-filled river in the heart of Vermont. Wake to the soothing sound of water cascading over rocks and enjoy coffee on the deck beneath towering hemlocks. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the adventure options nearby! Hike scenic trails, including the Long Trail/Appalachian Trail a mile away, or cool off in the river. Anglers will delight in fishing this hidden gem, a tributary of the Walloomsac River, stocked with trout every spring and home to native brook trout, perfect for fly fishing. In the evening, gather around the fire pit to grill your fresh catch or take a 10-minute drive to Bennington for restaurants and shops. For winter adventurers, hit cross-country ski trails at Prospect Mountain (3 miles) or carve through fresh powder at Mount Snow (13 miles) or Stratton (19 miles). Prefer a slower pace? Snowshoe through Woodford State Park (5 miles). At day’s end, unplug and unwind in our handcrafted cabin, built with love using repurposed local materials. Cozy up with a book by the propane stove, let the river’s murmur lull you to sleep, and enjoy a retreat from the world. Cabin Details & Amenities: ✔ One-room dry cabin (no electricity or plumbing) ✔ Full-size bed with memory foam mattress (linens provided) ✔ Propane stove for heat ✔ Cooking essentials (propane grill, cast iron skillet, utensils, plates, mugs) ✔ Fire pit with a grate for grilling ✔ Outdoor seating for stargazing or riverside relaxation ✔ Battery pack ✔ Books and card games for a cozy, unplugged stay 📍 Location & Access: Easily accessible off Route 9, parking is a short 100-yard walk from the cabin via a mulched footpath. In muddy or snowy conditions, alternative parking is available. ⚠ Important Notes: Limited cell service & no Wi-Fi – perfect for a digital detox! River levels may fluctuate, impacting wading or fishing. Due to the river’s proximity, stays with very young children aren’t recommended. Please drink responsibly, as the river’s edge has a steep drop-off. Experience Vermont’s natural beauty in every season—hiking, fishing, skiing, or simply relaxing by the fire. Book your stay and embrace the peaceful magic of cabin life!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night
100%
(143)

Upper Esopus Creekside Camp

3 sites ¡ Tents100 acres ¡ Big Indian, NY
Primitive Camp on the Esopus Creek in the Big Indian-Oliverea Valley surrounded by seven 3500' Catskill High Peaks including Slide Mountain, the tallest in the Catskills. Our PRIVATE camp (no other campers) is situated on 100 acres of land in the middle of the Catskill State Park. We are the closest HipCamp site to Slide Mountain, the Catskills tallest peak at 4180 feet. A perfect base camp for some of the best hiking in the Catskills, the site is bordered by Forever Wild Forest and is minutes from the trailheads to Balsam, Giant Ledge, Panther, Big Indian, Slide Mountain and dozens more peaks within 30 minutes or so away. Our drive up camp has a 4-6 person prospector type tent, a 10X12 covered tent platform, several individual tent sites with private fire rings, as well as a bunkhouse and a leanto for day use. The camp table and cook pit are covered from the elements. The main tent includes a wood burning stove, folding card table and seating for 4 and bunk bed with 4" thick self-inflating Therm-a-rest MondoKing 3D XXL Queen sized insulated mats for luxurious comfort. Open Network WiFi (no UN/PW needed) is available in front of hosts house a short woods walk away. Seasoned bundled 16" firewood is available by honor box cash payment on Brown rd across the camp entry road. Rules: 'Almost' anything goes. Learn about 'pack-in pack-out/leave no trace camping' and the 'leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures' motto. Due to local laws, no music or noise louder than 60 decibels is allowed which is about as loud as conversation with 20 people in a restaurant, an office of 20 people speaking or being on the phone, background music typically heard in restaurants and public spaces, an air conditioning unit at 100 feet. Our site is to be best enjoyed for the sounds that do exist naturally, the many birds singing their song, the babbling Esopus Creek, the rustling leaves on the trees. Ask questions, I will always answer anything about camping and am thrilled to share my knowledge.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$130
 / night
96%
(743)

Magic Forest Farm

15 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents225 acres ¡ Coeymans Hollow, NY
**Please confirm you have read our property description and rules before booking** Our slice of paradise consists of 225 acres of forested land nestled in the foothills of the Catskills near Albany. We are a homestead and small campground devoted to the principles of organic farming and self-reliance. Modern agriculture and big business are unsustainable, destroying farmland at an accelerating pace. It is important for us to teach the next generation, there is an alternative. We produce much of our own food. We have friendly goats, chickens, ducks, peacocks, donkeys and horses the guests can pet and feed. There are no swimming holes on our property, but many waterfalls and swimming spots within a short drive (see list below). A quick 5 minute drive will get you to one of the best disc golf courses in the north east. For the truly adventurous, Clarksville Cave is a short drive away. Visit their website for list of proper gear and rules. We do rent some of the equipment needed. Nearby Hiking Spots: Holt Preserve - 1.2 miles away Thatcher State Park- 9.4 miles Huyck Preserve- 11 miles Hannacroix Creek Preserrve- 8.4 miles Nearby Swimming Spots: Hannacroix Creek Preserve- 8.4 miles Kaaterskill Falls- 24 miles Thompsons Lake- 10 miles North-South Lake- 24 miles Parking: multiple car parking are available at each site.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

The best camping near Thacher State Park guide

Overview

About

Steep limestone cliffs rise above the surrounding plains 15 miles east of Albany. These cliffs are special for several reasons. They provide great views of the Hudson and Mohawk Valleys 1,300 feet below. They also harbor some of the richest fossil-bearing formations in the world.

Geologists still study the rocks today. There are around 40 caves in the park. The longest of them is Hailes Cave, and it stretches for more than 3,700 feet.

Geology aside, Indian Ladder Trail is the most popular trail in the park. The trail straddles a cliffside high above the park. When you hear a gentle rush of water, that means you're about to walk behind Minelot Falls.

Bring your flashlight to peek into the caves you see along the way. At the top of the trail, you see the Hudson Valley below you. The Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center helps explain the rich natural beauty of this place.

Thompson's Lake Campground accommodates tents or RVs. Around 140 campsites vary from secluded to open.

Top points of interest near Thacher State Park

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Camp Your Way™

Find the perfect site to match your camping style. Explore the largest collection of private campsites, RV parks, cabins, and glamping—including 120,000+ sites you won’t find anywhere else. Explore our maps, filter by your camping style, read real camper reviews, and book directly in our app. Hipcamp is the simplest way to find yourself outside under the stars.

Download the Hipcamp App

Š 2025 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved.
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.