Devils Tombstone Campground

For New Yorkers who define a perfect weekend by the height of the peaks they climb and the crackle of a wood fire, Devils Tombstone Campground offers a storied and rugged escape. Established as one of the oldest campgrounds in the Catskill Forest Preserve, this destination is legendary among the local outdoor community. It is nestled deep within Stony Clove, a dramatic mountain pass where the shadows of Plateau and Hunter mountains loom large. For those coming from the city or the Hudson Valley, entering this "clove"—a Dutch term for a deep gash in the earth—feels like stepping back into a more primal version of New York’s wilderness, where the landscape is dominated by massive boulders and ancient forests.

The campground takes its evocative name from a massive, seven-foot-high boulder that sits at the center of the park, left behind by a retreating glacier thousands of years ago. Local folklore once claimed this rugged notch was a favorite haunt of the Devil, but today it is primarily a haunt for serious hikers and backpackers. Shady and cool even in the height of summer, Devils Tombstone is a "primitive" facility, meaning it eschews the modern luxuries of electricity and flush toilets in favor of an authentic backcountry atmosphere. It serves as a vital base camp for those attempting the notorious Devils Path, a trail frequently cited as one of the most challenging and rewarding hiking experiences in the entire Northeast.

Location and accessibility are key factors that define the stay at Devils Tombstone. Situated directly on NY-214 in Elka Park, the campground is approximately six miles south of the Village of Hunter. This makes it highly accessible for New Yorkers traveling up the NYS Thruway (I-87), with a straightforward route from either the Kingston or Catskill exits. However, its position within a narrow mountain valley means that the campground is physically divided by the road. While this proximity makes it easy to unload gear, visitors should be aware that the sounds of the winding mountain highway are a part of the environment. The parking facilities are well-organized, featuring a wheelchair-accessible parking lot at the day-use area, though the sites themselves retain their rustic, stony character.

The services offered at Devils Tombstone Campground are designed to facilitate a "pack-in, pack-out" philosophy, ensuring the preservation of the delicate Catskill ecosystem. While you won't find WiFi or luxury showers here, the campground provides the essential infrastructure for a safe and successful mountain stay. To maintain the quality of the forest, firewood must be purchased on-site to prevent the spread of invasive species. For those who miss the convenience of a hot shower, a camping permit from Devils Tombstone grants access to the shower facilities and swimming beach at North-South Lake Campground, located just nine miles away. This arrangement allows guests to enjoy the solitude of the high peaks without completely sacrificing comfort.

• 24 primitive tent and trailer sites nestled under a dense forest canopy.
• Individual picnic tables and stone fire pits or grills at every designated site.
• On-site water spigots providing potable running water throughout the grounds.
• Public restrooms featuring vault/pit toilets (traditional outhouses).
• Firewood sales available on-site to support local ecological health.
• Dedicated on-site parking for vehicles, including accessible parking options.
• Information center and professional on-site caretaker staff for guest assistance.

The features and highlights of Devils Tombstone are undeniably centered on its status as a premier hiking hub. The campground is the approximate halfway point of the Devils Path, a 24-mile trail that traverses some of the highest summits in the Catskills. From your tent, you can access trails leading to the Hunter Mountain Fire Tower, which offers 360-degree views of the Hudson Valley and beyond. For families, the campground offers a different pace with the Junior Naturalist Program, designed to engage children ages 5 to 13 with the natural world. While the mountain terrain is rugged, the presence of Notch Lake—a small, shallow body of water nearby—provides a scenic spot for a quiet afternoon of reflection or photography.

• Direct access to the legendary Devils Path and the Hunter-West Kill Wilderness.
• Proximity to Hunter Mountain, featuring the highest historic fire tower in New York.
• Historical interest centered on the "Devils Tombstone" glacial erratic boulder.
• Junior Naturalist Program and an on-site playground for visiting children.
• Recreational facilities including a volleyball net and horseshoe pits.
• Pet-friendly policy allowing dogs on leashes (with valid rabies documentation).
• Scenic views of Stony Clove and the surrounding high peak ridges.

For those planning a visit, it is important to remember that this is a primitive site where nature takes center stage. To book a reservation or check for seasonal availability—typically from mid-May through Labor Day—campers are encouraged to use the official state reservation systems. For direct inquiries regarding current trail conditions or park rules, the staff can be reached at the following contact points:

Address: NY-214, Elka Park, NY 12427, USA
Phone: (845) 688-7160
Mobile Phone: +1 845-688-7160

What is worth choosing about Devils Tombstone Campground? It is worth choosing for its uncompromising authenticity. If you are a hiker looking to "bag" several of the Catskill 3500 peaks, there is no better geographic location to call home for the weekend. It is worth choosing for the sense of history; standing in the shadow of the same mountains that inspired the Hudson River School of painters provides a deep connection to New York's cultural and natural heritage. While the sites are compact and the amenities are basic, the "loveable" nature of the park comes from its honesty. It doesn't pretend to be a luxury resort—it is a mountain camp through and through, offering a dark-sky environment and a cool, high-elevation climate that is a godsend during the humid New York summers.

In conclusion, Devils Tombstone is a destination for the resilient and the adventurous. It is a place where you trade cell service for forest silence and exchange a comfortable bed for the rewarding fatigue of a 10-mile ridge walk. For the New York local who wants to test their gear and their grit, or for the family that wants to show their children what the woods really look like, this campground remains an essential piece of the Catskill experience. Pack your boots, double-check your tent stakes, and prepare for a stay in one of the most dramatic mountain passes in the Empire State. Would you like me to help you find more information about the specific hiking trail distances starting from the campground?