Fall Camping in New York
Discover the best fall camping across New York. Embrace the magic of autumn camping. Vibrant foliage, crisp air, and campfire nights under the stars.
Fall Camping in Other States
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Nicks Lake Campground
Autumn transforms the Adirondack forest into a kaleidoscope of crimson and gold, while September's thinner crowds mean you'll have the lake trails and hidden coves nearly to yourself.
Fish Creek Pond Campground
The Adirondacks explode into brilliant reds and golds come autumn, when cooler September nights make campfires essential and the summer throngs disappear into memory.
Watkins Glen State Park
Autumn transforms the legendary gorge into a fiery corridor as vibrant maples and oaks frame 19 cascading waterfalls along the misty stone pathways. September and October bring crisp hiking conditions and thinner crowds, letting you savor the thundering falls and dramatic rock formations...
About Fall Camping in New York
Fall camping in New York transforms the state's diverse landscapes into a spectacular showcase of autumn colors, from the rugged Adirondack wilderness to the dramatic gorges of the Finger Lakes. The Empire State offers an unparalleled variety of fall camping experiences, whether you're seeking remote island sanctuaries, historic waterfront sites, or mountain retreats surrounded by peak foliage.
Best Time
Peak fall foliage in New York follows a predictable progression from north to south and high to low elevations, creating an extended viewing season from mid-September through late October. The Adirondacks typically reach peak colors first, with high-elevation areas like Buck Pond near Lake Placid peaking in late September, while lower-elevation sites around Old Forge and Indian Lake hit their stride in early October.
Season Highlights
- Stunning fall foliage
- Cooler, comfortable temperatures
- Fewer crowds and quiet sites
- Perfect campfire weather
Explore Fall Camping in New York
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve popular Adirondack campgrounds like Fish Creek Pond and Nicks Lake at least three months ahead for peak foliage weekends, as these sites fill rapidly.
- 2New York State Parks require reservations through ReserveAmerica, with a two-night minimum on weekends.
- 3Pack layered clothing for significant temperature swings between day and night—temperatures can drop below freezing overnight even when days reach the 60s.
- 4Bring a quality sleeping bag rated to at least 20°F and consider adding a sleeping pad with high R-value for insulation.
Fall Camping in New York FAQ
We've ranked 20+ fall campgrounds in New York based on foliage, weather, and reviews. Top options feature stunning autumn colors and comfortable temperatures.
Fall foliage in New York typically peaks during September through November, though timing varies by elevation and latitude. Check local foliage reports for optimal timing.
New York offers excellent fall camping with colorful foliage, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds than summer. Many campgrounds have special fall activities and harvest-season events.
Popular New York Campgrounds Book Fast
The best fall camping in New York book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Nicks Lake Campground
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Find Your Perfect New York Campground
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- Search 20+ fall camping in New York
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