There are more campgrounds throughout New York than what can be included in one list, but there are a few parks and preserves throughout the state that can only be described as otherworldly when it comes to incredible views of the fall foliage. From western New York to the Adirondacks, New York boasts some of the most gorgeous parks in the northeast, parks where you should plan to camp for a few days before the weather gets too cold. Here are a few of our favorite places for fall camping in New York.
1. Harriman State Park
Harriman State Park is the second-largest park in the state at 47,527 acres. It also contains 200 miles of hiking trails. It's just north of New York City, so it's the perfect spot for a day-long escape for city-dwellers. It also has 31 lakes and reservoirs, not to mention some incredible overlooks. See what it’s like to hike around Harriman State Park in the fall:
2. Letchworth State Park
This lovely park is one of the most popular destinations in the state year-round, but it takes on a special kind of beauty when the leaves start to change. Looking out over the canyons and waterfalls at this massive preserve (it's more than 14,000 acres) as the region is exploding in color is indescribable.
3. Taughannock Falls State Park
Best known for its famous 215-foot waterfall, the magnificent views from the gorge trails and picturesque scenes that overlook Cayuga Lake make this an ideal fall destination. Check out this gorgeous waterfall surrounded by fall colors:
4. Blue Mountain Campground
This gorgeous campground at the foot of the Catskills is the perfect spot for all kinds of campers, from individuals to large families, from novices to experienced campers. They've got all the amenities you'll need. Kaaterskill Falls, Hunter Mountain, and The Mohonk Preserve all are within your reach.
5. Taconic State Park
This idyllic park near the New York-Massachusetts border is a popular camping spot, with 106 campsites and 18 cabins. There are multiple falls in the area and enough hiking trails to keep you adventuring for days.
6. Watkins Glen State Park
This lush park in the Finger Lakes is one of the most famous in the state for its otherworldy rock formations and unique waterfalls. Head to this park for some of the most unforgettable hiking experiences you've ever had. In 2015, the park won Third Place in a USA Today Reader's Choice Poll for Best State Park. Not a bad spot to pitch a tent. Get a closer look at Watkins Glen State Park during the fall:
7. Cranberry Lake Campground
You won't find a more peaceful place to camp than this secluded lake in the Adirondacks. If trout fishing and hiking through the wilderness of Adirondack Park sound like your kind of adventure, give this park a try.
If these locations aren't particularly easy for you to get to, there are plenty of other top-notch parks and nature preserves around the state. A few of our other favorite parks around the state are Minnewaska State Park, Bowman Lake State Park, and Adirondack Park. What are your favorite places for fall camping in New York? Let us know about them in the comments. If you want to see more of this state's natural beauty in the fall, take a road trip to these lovely fall day trips in New York.
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