Camping Trips in New York

Camping Trips in New York
Photo Credit adirondack chair at sunset image by Joan Soles from Fotolia.com

While the Empire State is home to one of the nation's liveliest cities, New York also boasts diverse regions landscaped with rolling countrysides, pristine lakes and two spectacular mountain regions. Experience a camping trip like none other by getting back to nature in a variety of settings. With over 500 campgrounds on millions of acres, New York offers campers many different camping alternatives--from fully equipped campgrounds to rustic cabins and fine mountain resorts. The hardest decision will be choosing which camping style to select within the beautiful regions of New York.

Adirondack Park

With over 6 million acres to explore, the Adirondack park located in northern New York is the largest wilderness area east of the Mississippi. Deemed "forever wild" in 1894 by New York voters, this mountain region is larger than Yellowstone, Everglades, Glacier and the Grand Canyon parks combined. There are over 3,000 lakes and ponds as well as 1,500 miles of rivers and streams to enjoy. The Adirondacks are home to the nation's largest trail system, with over 2,000 miles of hiking trails to explore, and nearly 100 campgrounds, from primitive tent sites to luxurious mountain resorts. Thanks to the incredible natural resources available throughout the park, there are plenty of outdoor recreational experiences to be enjoyed. Take a break from the campsite and visit intriguing world-class museums and Colonial forts throughout the park. Visit the birthplace of the first "Adirondack Great Camp" built by W.W. Durant in Raquette Lake. Camping in the Adirondacks offers all-natural adventures and tranquil forests to renew spirits in.

Finger Lakes Region

This beautiful region located just southeast of Rochester offers serene lakeside camping amid rolling hillsides and natural vineyards. All types of camping experiences are offered here, from tent camping to fully equipped facilities for RVs. Enjoy miles of wooded hiking trails, exhilarating water activities or journey into one of the eclectic lake villages to explore local cultural arts. World-class wineries are scattered throughout the hillsides, offering vineyard tours and local wine samplings. Local farm-fresh produce and homegrown preserves can be purchased on many backcountry roadside stands and at village festivals throughout the summer and fall seasons.

Western New York--Greater Niagara Region

All types of camping experiences can be enjoyed in this area of the state. Tent and RV campsites are located within this region, with close proximity to Niagara Falls, one of the nation's natural wonders. Camping in this area provides a great opportunity to not only enjoy the beauty of the Falls region but to visit Old Fort Niagara, a national historical landmark at the entrance to the Niagara River. For a change of pace, take a short trip across the Niagara River into Canada, New York's "neighbor next door."

Southern Tier --Chautauqua/Allegheny Region

This picturesque region is home to Allegheny State Park, New York's largest state park. Bordering New York and Pennsylvania, this region is recognized as the northern most point of Appalachia. There are 400 campsites and 375 cabin rentals available within the park. Enjoy a wide array of outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, horseback riding, fishing, boating and swimming on the sand beaches.

The Catskill Mountains

The Catskill Mountain region offers endless miles of unspoiled wilderness to enjoy a memorable camping experience. Its close proximity to New York City and other eastern cities make this a choice location for camping. Tent, full-service RV hook-up and cabin rental camping trips can be enjoyed throughout the mountains. Enjoy fly-fishing, a popular sport in this mountain region, or experience a thrilling rock climbing adventure. Campsites here offer horseback riding, hiking, canoeing, kayaking and swimming. After a busy day of enjoying the fresh mountain air, visit the town of Liberty and enjoy an entertaining performance at the Bethel Woods Center for Performing Arts.

References

Article reviewed by DanL Last updated on: Apr 26, 2011

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