Whether you’re a family looking for a weekend getaway, a couple planning a romantic retreat, or a solo adventurer craving the wild, New York has a camping spot waiting for you.
This guide brings you the best of the best camping destinations for September 2025—handpicked, well-loved, and perfect for soaking in the magic of early autumn.
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Why September is the Perfect Month to Camp in New York
September sits right at the sweet spot. Days are mild enough for long hikes or canoeing, while nights are cool enough for cozy campfires and stargazing.
The dreaded mosquitoes of summer finally disappear, and campgrounds that were packed in July suddenly feel more peaceful.
Add in the fact that late September brings the first wave of fall foliage—especially in the Catskills and Adirondacks—and you’ve got the makings of an unforgettable outdoor escape.
Iconic State Park Campgrounds
North-South Lake State Campground (Catskills)
The Catskills’ crown jewel, North-South Lake, is famous for its scenic views and hiking trails that lead to historic sites like Kaaterskill Falls.
This is one of the most popular campgrounds in the state, but in September, it’s less crowded and even more magical.
Getting There: About 2.5 hours by car from NYC; limited bus connections available.
Nearby Eats: Stop in Hunter or Tannersville for cozy diners and pizza joints after your hike.
Allegany State Park – Quaker Area (Western NY)
Stretching across 65,000 acres, Allegany is the largest state park in New York. The Quaker Area offers a mix of wooded campsites, hiking trails, and lakes perfect for kayaking.
Getting There: Best reached by car from Buffalo (1 hour) or Jamestown (30 minutes).
Nearby Eats: Local BBQ spots and small-town diners serve hearty comfort food.
Lake George Escape Campground (Adirondacks)
Lake George Escape is a family-friendly haven where you can do everything from tubing down the river to joining campground events.
Its mix of fun and nature makes it a solid choice for both kids and adults.
Getting There: About 3.5 hours by car from NYC; Amtrak to Fort Edward with shuttle/taxi is another option.
Nearby Eats: Lake George Village has everything—ice cream parlors, breweries, and lakeside grills.
Hidden Gems from DEC & ReserveAmerica
Taconic State Park (Hudson Valley)
Nestled along the Massachusetts border, Taconic State Park offers incredible hiking trails, waterfalls, and cool nights perfect for camping. It’s a quieter alternative to some of the more famous parks.
Getting There: Easy drive from NYC in just over 2 hours; Amtrak to Hudson then taxi.
Nearby Eats: Farm-to-table cafés in Millerton and Great Barrington are local favorites.
Sampson State Park (Finger Lakes)
Once a naval training station, Sampson now welcomes campers with sprawling sites along Seneca Lake.
September is prime time for wine-tasting in the Finger Lakes, making this campground a double win.
Getting There: About 45 minutes by car from Ithaca or Rochester.
Nearby Eats: Seneca Lake wine trails are filled with wineries, breweries, and lakeside bistros.
Four Mile Creek State Park (Lake Ontario)
This park’s biggest draw? Campsites overlooking Lake Ontario, with sunsets that rival any beach vacation. Plus, it’s just a short drive from Niagara Falls.
Getting There: Roughly 30 minutes by car from Niagara Falls or 45 minutes from Buffalo.
Nearby Eats: Buffalo-style wings and classic diners dominate the food scene nearby.
Private & Unique Camping Spots
Peconic River Campgrounds (Long Island)
For those who don’t want to trek upstate, Peconic River offers an easy escape on Long Island. Perfect for fishing, boating, and enjoying nature without leaving the metro area too far behind.
Getting There: Reachable by car or Long Island Rail Road to Riverhead with a short cab ride.
Nearby Eats: Long Island seafood shacks and wineries are close by.
The Mountain Top @ Wright’s Farm (Upstate NY)
A rustic, elevated experience where campers wake up to sweeping mountain views. It’s a favorite among Hipcamp users for its peaceful vibe and authentic countryside feel.
Getting There: Best accessed by car, around 1.5 hours from Albany.
Nearby Eats: Local bakeries and farm stands offer fresh, homemade treats.
Must-Visit Public Parks
Letchworth State Park (“Grand Canyon of the East”)
This park is jaw-dropping, with waterfalls and deep gorges that earn it the nickname “Grand Canyon of the East.”
Camping here in September means you’ll get crisp nights and a front-row seat to early autumn colors.
Getting There: About 1 hour by car from Rochester or Buffalo.
Nearby Eats: Don’t miss small-town diners serving apple pie and hearty American fare.
Green Lakes State Park (Central NY)
Famous for its two glacial lakes with stunning turquoise waters, Green Lakes is a must for photography lovers. Its flat trails make it beginner-friendly, and camping here feels almost surreal.
Getting There: Roughly 20 minutes by car from Syracuse.
Nearby Eats: Syracuse has everything from pizza joints to breweries for post-hike meals.
Moreau Lake State Park (Near Saratoga Springs)
Less crowded but equally beautiful, Moreau Lake offers sandy beaches and peaceful hiking trails.
Getting There: About 45 minutes north of Albany by car.
Nearby Eats: Saratoga Springs nearby is known for farm-to-table restaurants and craft breweries.
Adirondack Adventure Spots
Saranac Lake Islands
This one’s for the adventurers. Canoe or kayak out to an island, pitch your tent, and wake up surrounded by water.
Getting There: Access via boat launches around Saranac Lake, about 5 hours from NYC by car.
Nearby Eats: Saranac Lake and Lake Placid have cozy cafés, breweries, and local diners.
St. Regis Canoe Wilderness
A true wilderness escape, this area has dozens of ponds and lakes linked by canoe routes.
Getting There: Drive about 2 hours from Albany or 45 minutes from Lake Placid.
Nearby Eats: Lake Placid offers hearty pub food, bakeries, and farm-fresh dining.
Remote Wilderness Escapes
Echo Lake (Catskills)
Accessible only by hiking, Echo Lake rewards your effort with complete seclusion.
Getting There: Trailheads near Phoenicia, about 2.5 hours from NYC by car.
Nearby Eats: Phoenicia is known for its diners, BBQ joints, and even a famous pancake house.
Bonus Pick – County Park
Sprague Brook Park (Erie County)
Sometimes the best spots aren’t the most famous. Sprague Brook is a peaceful county park with streams, woodlands, and quiet campsites that make it a favorite among locals.
Getting There: Just 40 minutes by car from Buffalo.
Nearby Eats: Buffalo’s food scene nearby means wings, pizza, and craft beer galore.
Conclusion
From the turquoise waters of Green Lakes to the rugged beauty of the Adirondack islands, September is truly the golden month for camping in New York.
Whether you want a full-service campground, a family-friendly park, or a hike-in wilderness escape, this list has the best of the best.
Read More: 7 Best Scenic Train Rides in New York for September 2025
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