Camping Companions

Are you wondering if you can camp in New York State Parks? The short answer is yes, of course! But it isn’t as simple as that. First you need to define what you consider to be camping. For us, it is bringing our home on wheels with us while we explore the nature of the area only to collapse in our RV in the evenings. It is waking up, cooking a hot breakfast, and then setting off on the next great adventure. When we book a campsite at a New York State campground, we are essentially booking a small plot of land that has an electric post on the site and water to fill your tanks nearby. Sites often have a level gravel area to park, as well as a fire ring and picnic table. This is probably the most expensive way to stay in State Park running you around $30. per night, but it also mostly guarantees that you will have a spot to park your RV or Tent when you get there. Some NY State Parks do not offer camping, so check the reservation site http://www.reserveamerica.com to make sure your intended park allows it.

DEC parks or Department of Environmental Conservation Parks also offer a reservation system (www.reservation.gov) that you can book a small plot of land without the electricity hook up. This option is less expensive, costing around $25. a night. We’ve found these sites to be more primitive, but set in beautifully maintained land. Generators are permitted to charge your RV batteries during specified times. A fireplace and picnic table are also provided on your campsite.

For some, camping means backcountry camping where everything you need in order to sleep, eat, and navigate parts unknown is carried in a pack on your back. You set up your sleeping arrangements where there is a relative clearing. There are little to no amenities and that is what the big draw of that kind of camping is, because it also means it is free! Check with http://www.dec.gov to see if you need a permit.

For some, camping means taking your RV “off grid” by parking on BLM or Bureau of Land Management property. Although in some of the more popular areas it may be difficult to get a spot, if you do they are pretty fantastic. They do maintain the land so you won’t need to worry about locating a cleared area. Make sure you carry in what you need because there are few amenities, if any. Carry out what’s left and leave no trace. I bet you will find that once you’re off the beaten path, you’ll find some of the prettiest spots in New York State.

No matter how you camp, with over 8500 campsites within New York State parks, you can find the perfect spot for you!