Glamping New York [Best Spot for Nature Getaways]

The Big Apple isn’t the only thing worth seeing in the state of New York. In fact, the Empire State is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country. So, whether you’re a native New Yorker looking to disconnect from the bustle of the city or a visitor from elsewhere looking to expand your horizons, this guide is for you. From the best glamping sites to fun activities in the area, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about the best glamping New York has to offer.

What’s the Best Spot for Glamping in New York?

We know what you might be wondering, “Where exactly should I visit for New York glamping?” Well, we’re glad you asked! When it comes to New York, it doesn’t get better than the Catskills. Located in Upstate New York, the Catskills are filled with majestic mountains, tranquil hiking trails, and many, many rivers and streams. In fact, the Catskills are home to four of the six reservoirs that make up the New York City watershed, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding. Overall, there’s so much to see and do in the Catskills that it would be easier to say what it doesn’t have!

Where to Glamp in the Catskills, New York

So, the Catskills are the best spot in New York to go glamping, but where can you find the best glamping tents? Look no further than Callicoon Hills! You’ll find this hideaway in the heart of the Callicoon Center, a charming hamlet in the Hudson Valley. While you’ll likely spend most of your glamping trip either exploring the Catskills or in your accommodation, Callicoon Hills has plenty of amenities for you to enjoy. Here’s what the property has to offer.

Amenities

Glamping at Callicoon Hills

When you’re ready to unwind in the wilderness, you’ll be greeted by a striking A-frame tent. These tents provide a unique lodging experience with all the amenities you’d expect from Callicoon Hills. You’ll reach these frames through the hiking trails towards the back of the resort on the property’s glamping ridge. This ridge features rolling woodlands, fire pits, and a bathhouse with private bathrooms and individual rain showers. The luxury tents have a queen bed, floor-to-crown windows, and solar-powered lights for a sustainable stay. The A-frames can accommodate two guests each.

Things to Do While Glamping in New York

Of course, if you’re glamping in New York, you’re there to experience the great outdoors. So, let’s take a look at some of the many fun activities you can enjoy in the Catskills!

Explore the Catskill Mountains

As we all know, the best glamping getaways involve stunning mountains, and fortunately, New York is no slouch on that front! In fact, one of the most noticeable landmarks in this region is the majestic Catskill Mountains. There are 98 peaks in these mountains, and the range includes waterfalls, hiking, and mountain biking trails. If you really want an impressive climb, be sure to check out Slide Mountain. With a summit elevation of 4,180 feet, this mountain boasts the highest peak in the Catskills. You’ll find another impressive view at Kaaterskill Falls. Dropping over 260 feet, these cascading falls make for an impressive site. In fact, Kaaterskill Falls has inspired dozens of celebrated artists to create some of their most remarkable work. Maybe you’ll be the next to create something new there!

While these attractions already make for one of the best glamping experiences, the mountains have even more to offer in the winter. As temperatures drop, the skiers rise! That’s because these mountains are packed with great ski slopes. Of all the mountains skiers love, the highest mountain peak can be found at Hunter Mountain. Known as the snowmaking capital of the world, the mountain has consistent snow conditions across 100 percent of its 320 skiable acres all winter long. These acres have a healthy mix of slopes for beginner, intermediate, and expert-level skiers. As a result, you’re bound to have a good time whether you’re a seasoned vet or an excited rookie! Overall, the Catskills are an excellent destination for winter family vacations.

Traverse the Catskill’s Waterways

As we mentioned earlier, the Catskills are home to four of the reservoirs that make up New York City’s watershed. Naturally, this means it’s easy to fill your glamping experience in New York with lots of fun activities in the water. You’ll be just a stone’s throw away from great spots for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding! Want a calm experience on the water? Then you’ll love the East Branch of the Delaware River. This area offers smooth, deep paddling conditions for when you want to relax. Meanwhile, anyone looking for a challenge will enjoy Batavia Kill, which features whitewater rafting on Class II-V+ rapids. Want a little bit of everything? Then, stop by Alder Lake. This lake isn’t just suitable for paddling; it also features the oldest fire tower in the Catskills, great campsites, and even fishing!

Speaking of fishing, there’s plenty of it in the Catskills. In fact, the Catskill Mountains feature five of America’s top trout streams. In particular, the Delaware River’s trout fishing is world-class, with the Upper Delaware River, in particular, being great. On top of trout fishing, the Catskills are a great place to go fly fishing. Junction Pool is an especially great spot, as it’s not only near the Delaware River but also where the Willowemoc and Beaverkill Rivers converge. Meanwhile, anyone looking to catch wild rainbow and brown trout will love the Esopus Creek, which is packed with these distinct fish.

Enjoy a Taste of Civilization on Your New York Glamping Trip

While luxury camping mainly involves retreating to the woods, you can still experience a bit of local life nearby. Just fifteen minutes away from Callicoon Hills is the historic town of Livingston Manor. This town is known as the birthplace of fly fishing, which means anyone interested in the activity should definitely make the trip over! While there, you can visit the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum on the north edge of town. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of fly fishing and is located on a 53-acre campus with a covered pavilion, casting fields, a trail system, and access to Willowemoc Creek. Needless to say, there’s a lot to do here!

Aside from the museum, Livingston Manor is packed with activities. Restaurants, art stores, antique shops, the list goes on! Main Street, in particular, has plenty of quirky local shops that are worth your time. You can also hike to the top of a 120-acre preserve, called “Beer Mountain,” in order to enjoy some delicious local brews. Plus, if you visit in June, you can even see the annual trout parade in town!

Find Even More Glamping Trips with Nook

If you’ve made it here, it’s safe to say you love glamping. Fortunately, you’re in good company. At Nook Outdoors, we’re always on the lookout for fun, unconventional vacations just off the beaten path. That’s why we’ve curated a special list of vacation properties across the U.S. So, whether you’re looking for luxe safari tents or a boutique hotel room, we have you covered. Click on the link below to find your next adventure!