Even though the happening atmosphere of New York is great, it is good to spend some quiet time outside the city. Little Pond Campground is a cute little spot buried within the Catskill Forest Preserve, two and a half hours away from the city.
You might think that Little Pond Campground is tiny, but in reality, it is a 13-acre big pond smack in the middle of the campground. Various hiking trails surround it, and it is easy to fall in love with the magnificent view of the Catskill mountains here. Little Pond Campground feels like heaven on earth, whether it is the brilliant amenities, activities for every age, or the relaxing views.
It doesn’t matter what city near New York you reside in, Little Pond Campground is only a few hours away. It can be accessed through highway I-87 and onto Route 28. In about two and a half hours from New York City you can get there by car. In four hours from Boston, and two hours from Albany, making it perfect for any big city dweller to escape when needing a relaxing weekend.
History of Little Pond Campground
Little Pond Campground was constructed in 1965 and was ready for public use by 1968. It has a total of 67 sites and a beach and picnic area within its premises. In 1984 during its 100th anniversary, officials buried a time capsule into the campground.
This time capsule consisted of names of individuals who would camp in the area during the early years and was entombed at the bottom of a stone monument. The capsule will be opened on the 200th anniversary of Little Pond Campground as a tribute to the Forest Preserve.
Back in the 1940s, the Department of Environmental Conservation acquired a private estate and hatchery and transformed it into an educational center. Named the DeBruce Environmental Education Camp, campers between the ages of 11 and 13 can enroll here to learn more about their surroundings and environmental science.
Things to do here:
You can do an abundance of activities at Little Pond Campground, regardless of your age or interests.
1. Kayak and Canoe
You might assume that the pond at Little Pond Campground is tiny, but there is nothing further than the truth. This pond is 13 acres encircled by hiking trails and beautiful forests, making it a comfortable and private spot to kayak or canoe.
The best part is that motor boats are not allowed on the pond, so you can do whatever you want without the annoying engine sound. You can rent paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, and rowboats for an active and enriching experience with your loved ones.
2. Swim
One glance at the pond’s clear blue waters, and we guarantee that you will want to dive right in. If you want to upgrade your tan, the beach is the best place for you to lie down and destress. There is a lot of shade here, along with boat rentals, picnic tables, and a swimming area nearby.
We recommend only swimming in the pool or pond if you are not afraid of water. Since this area does not have any lifeguards and the beach is not under official supervision, pay close attention to the rules of the park and enjoy a relaxing day away from all your responsibilities back home.
3. Fish
One of the greatest fishing areas known as the Beaverkill is located on the Little Pond Campground.
You can also head down to the Pepacton Reservoir if you are looking for smallmouth bass and huge brown trout to catch. Spend long, lazy hours near the water and take home your prize to cook or share with your friends after a successful fishing trip.
4. Hike
Little Pond Campground is known for its vast hiking paths and nature trails adorned around the waters. You can find the trailheads around the camp linked to 33 miles of gorgeous hiking trails that pass by the Delaware Wild Forest.
If you are traveling with children, older people, or individuals with disabilities, you can choose the flat trails that provide a leisurely experience. If you want something that will challenge your fitness levels, the hiking trails at the Touch-Me-Not Mountain open up to the beauty of the Catskill mountains that stand tall at 2,700 feet.
5. Marvel at the Wildlife
Little Pond Campground is all about taking in your surroundings, letting go of the burden of responsibilities on your shoulders for a short while, and breathing in the beauty of nature. Prepare to be amazed by all the beautiful wildlife trudging along the campground, allowing you to watch them and follow their movements.
If you want to see some of the world’s most brilliant wildlife, the pond, campground, and nature trails are the best places to camp out. If you are lucky, here are a few kinds of wildlife you may see:
- Bears
- Wild turkeys
- Coyotes
- Foxes
- Deers with whitetails
- Bald eagles
6. Visit Neighborhood Towns
There are loads of towns that you can find merely 20 miles away from the Little Pond Campground, such as Margaretville, Manor, Livingston, and Liberty. These towns have huge theaters, golf courses, shopping centers, and restaurants where you can eat your hearts out.
A short drive from the campground, you will find Livingston Manor, where many wonderful sites are located. You can spend a wonderful afternoon here taking in the beauty of the Letch Worth State Park, visiting Sonoma Falls, or exploring the area’s historic downtown.
Why You Must Visit At Least Once in Your Life
Whether you want some time off from the big city life or to spend a romantic weekend with your better half, the Little Pond Campground will make you love life again with its beautiful trails, calm waters, and rich history.
By the end of your short vacation, you will have difficulty bidding goodbye to this special place.