How to Book New York State Parks Campgrounds
New York's combined state park and DEC campground system is one of the largest in America, with 8,100+ campsites and nearly 1,000 cabins and cottages. It spans from the Adirondacks and Catskills to Long Island beaches, managed by two agencies with a 9-month booking window.
What New York State Parks Covers
All OPRHP state park campgrounds and DEC Adirondack/Catskill campgrounds throughout New York State.
How to Book on NY State Parks
Visit newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com
Create an account or sign in
Search by park name, region, or browse the map
Select your campsite, cabin, or cottage and dates
Complete payment ($7.25 reservation fee + campsite fee)
Booking Details
Pro Tips for NY State Parks
Weekday vs. Weekend Release Times
New York has different release times: 8:00 AM ET on weekdays and 9:00 AM ET on weekends (March 15 through Labor Day). Know which day your target date opens and plan accordingly.
Two Agencies, One System
New York campgrounds are managed by two agencies: OPRHP (state parks) and DEC (Adirondack/Catskill forest preserve). Both book through the same ReserveAmerica portal but have different campground styles.
Adirondacks Are the Crown Jewel
Adirondack campgrounds on lakes like Cranberry Lake, Fish Creek Pond, and Rollins Pond are the most sought-after sites. Lakefront sites go within minutes of the booking window opening.
Long Island Beach Camping
Wildwood, Hither Hills, and Montauk Downs on Long Island offer beach camping within driving distance of NYC. These fill up fast for summer weekends. Consider midweek stays for better availability.
Fall Foliage: Late September Through October
The Adirondacks peak for fall color in late September to early October, while the Catskills peak in mid-October. Book 9 months ahead for prime foliage weekends.
Popular NY State Parks Campgrounds
Can't Find Availability on NY State Parks?
Outdoorithm monitors 119 NY State Parks campgrounds every 2 minutes and sends you instant SMS, email, and push notifications when cancellations open up campsites.
NY State Parks Booking FAQ
When do New York State Park reservations open?
New York opens reservations 9 months in advance at 8:00 AM ET on weekdays and 9:00 AM ET on weekends during camping season (March 15 through Labor Day).
What's the difference between OPRHP and DEC campgrounds?
OPRHP manages developed state park campgrounds with more amenities. DEC manages campgrounds in the Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserve, which tend to be more rustic and nature-focused.
What are the hardest New York campgrounds to book?
Fish Creek Pond, Rollins Pond, and Cranberry Lake in the Adirondacks are extremely competitive. On Long Island, Hither Hills and Wildwood fill up fast for summer weekends.
How do I get cancellation alerts for NY campgrounds?
Set up free alerts on Outdoorithm. We monitor New York State Park availability and send instant SMS and email notifications when cancellations create openings.
NY State Parks Alerts
Get notified instantly when campsites open up on New York State Parks.