The best parks & outdoor spots in Catskills

Family-owned since 2005, Brookside Campgrounds gives you that quiet-by-the-brook vibe with mountain views and quick access to Kaaterskill Falls. Whether you roll in with an RV, grab a cabin, or keep it old-school with a tent, it’s an easy local getaway that actually feels like one.

From the Hudson Valley newsletter, October 16, 2026

Hudson River Skywalk is a six-mile out-and-back over the Rip Van Winkle Bridge linking the Thomas Cole Historic Site and Frederic Church’s Olana. Expect sweeping Hudson River Valley and Catskill Mountain views that drop you right into the landscapes that inspired the Hudson River School.

From the Catskill newsletter, September 29, 2026

Six Hands Farm Store is a collaboration between Nimble Roots Farm and The Lo Farm, run by six friends bringing Catskill-grown, Certified Organic produce, starter plants, locally sourced staples, and fresh flower bouquets to town. It’s the kind of spot you swing through weekly, then suddenly cook like you meant it.

From the Catskill newsletter, October 4, 2026

Need a quick reset close to home? Mawignack Preserve loops through woods and meadows to Catskill Creek, with interpretive signs and the same river views Thomas Cole painted a dozen times. Great for leash walks, quiet wildlife peeks, winter skis, and the occasional smug 'yep, I live here' selfie.

From the Catskill newsletter, September 21, 2026

East Brook Community Farm keeps it cooperative and regenerative, with a track record of CSA shares, pastured chicken, plant starts, and serious garlic know-how. They’re currently seeking new management, so locals should keep an eye on this land stewarding hub as the next chapter takes shape.

From the Catskills newsletter, October 14, 2026

Four Winds Farm practices no-till farming that keeps soil structure intact, and it shows in their hardy heirloom vegetable seedlings and grass fed beef. If your garden plans swing big each spring, keep an eye on their annual May seedling sale and get varieties that actually behave in local beds.

From the Wawarsing newsletter, October 16, 2026

Kelder's Farm is the local move for 35+ attractions, U-pick on 50+ fruits, veggies and flowers, and festivals from tulips to sunflowers to fall fun. Bring the crew, roam a bit, then hit the food, drinks and taproom for a well-earned refuel.

From the Wawarsing newsletter, October 23, 2026

3-mile unpaved Parksville Rail Trail, overlooking the Little Beaver Kill and easily reached from New York State Route 17, part of the Sullivan O&W Rail Trail that connects hamlets, towns, and villages across Sullivan County.

From the Catskills newsletter, October 2, 2026

Whether you hike, bike, climb, boulder, or just want quick access to summit views, Mohonk Preserve West Trapps Trailhead is the local launch point to the Trapps cliffs, Undercliff Carriage Road, and mellow-to-spicy routes that can wander onto neighboring Minnewaska State Park Preserve and Mohonk Mountain House lands.

From the Wawarsing newsletter, October 8, 2026

Catskill Scenic Trail is the kind of mellow, go-when-you-can path locals keep in their back pocket, perfect for clearing your head after work, sneaking in a sunrise stroll, or stretching a weekend wander with steady scenery, fresh air, and no fuss.

From the Catskills newsletter, September 25, 2026

3-mile unpaved stretch overlooking the Little Beaver Kill with easy access from Route 17, part of the Sullivan O&W Rail Trail, an easy, scenic pick when you want a quick walk that still feels like a proper exhale.

From the Catskills newsletter, October 7, 2026

7-mile, multi-surface stretch that welcomes bikes, hikes, and even cross-country skis. Gentle grades, rail-town history, and legit Sullivan County scenery make it an easy go-to.

From the Monticello newsletter, October 17, 2026

John Burroughs Slabsides serves up mellow trails, a lively Sanctuary Pond, and seasonal rambles that nerd out on migrating birds, ferns, geology, moth nightlife, even beaver drama. Low key, restorative, and very local, it’s the kind of place you’ll revisit when you need to breathe.

From the Catskills newsletter, October 20, 2026

Red Maple Vineyard is a former dairy farm turned family-run, farm-to-table vineyard where RMV Cellars pours small-batch wine, beer, cider, and mead sourced from their own grapes, hops, and foraged goodies. Perfect for a mellow weekend tasting or plotting that next big celebration with everything handled in-house.

From the Catskills newsletter, August 7, 2026

When you need a change of scenery without leaving the ridge, the Ice Caves Trail at Sam's Point dishes out squeeze-through rock crevices, ladders, and big Shawangunk views, with a bonus option to continue to Verkeerder Kill Falls if your legs are feeling spicy.

From the Catskills newsletter, August 29, 2026