Mongaup Pond Campground

For New York residents seeking a true escape from the relentless energy of urban life, Mongaup Pond Campground serves as a vital sanctuary in the heart of the Catskill Forest Preserve. Located in the northeastern corner of Sullivan County, this expansive 680-acre facility is centered around its namesake: a 120-acre pond that holds the distinction of being the largest body of water in the Catskill Park outside of the New York City reservoirs. This remote location offers a "forever wild" atmosphere where the dense canopy of hardwood trees and the still waters of the pond provide a restorative backdrop for local families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Mongaup Pond is celebrated for its balance of primitive seclusion and thoughtful infrastructure. The campground is designed to immerse visitors in nature without sacrificing the essentials. With over 160 campsites spread across several loops, visitors can choose between sites directly on the water’s edge or those tucked further back into the shaded forest. Whether you are a seasoned hiker looking to tackle the High Peaks or a family looking for a safe place for children to swim and play, Mongaup Pond offers a professional and friendly environment that has made it a seasonal tradition for generations of New Yorkers.

Location and Accessibility are two of the campground's most practical advantages. Situated at 231 Mongaup Pond Road, the park is approximately a two-and-a-half-hour drive from New York City and less than two hours from the state capital in Albany. The final leg of the journey leads campers through the charming town of Livingston Manor, which has recently blossomed into a destination for artisanal food and local culture. This proximity allows guests to stock up on high-quality local goods before heading deep into the valley where the campground is located.

The facility has been significantly updated to ensure that the beauty of the Catskills is accessible to all. The park features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, a dedicated parking lot, and modernized restroom facilities that meet ADA standards. Within the camping loops, several sites have been specifically designated for those with mobility impairments. While the terrain is naturally rugged, the main roads and common areas—including the beach and picnic zones—are maintained to allow for easy navigation. On-site parking is guaranteed for campers, with additional overflow areas available to ensure that the campsites themselves remain uncluttered and peaceful.

Services Offered at Mongaup Pond Campground focus on providing a high-quality, "back-to-basics" experience supported by essential amenities. The staff at the front gate are known for their helpfulness, often providing tips on local weather or nearby hidden attractions. The services include:

• RV camping sites featuring available sewer hookups for self-contained units.
• Individual tent sites, many of which are level and features dedicated fire stations for grilling and warmth.
• Clean, modernized bathhouses with hot showers that operate on a convenient button-press system.
• A central recycling center and bear-proof trash collection facilities to protect local wildlife.
• On-site firewood and ice sales, reducing the need for campers to leave the park for basic supplies.
• Regular patrolling by park rangers to ensure quiet hours and guest safety are maintained.
• Multiple water points distributed throughout each camping loop for easy access to drinking water.
• A seasonal Junior Naturalist Program that offers environmental education for children staying at the park.

Features and Highlights of this Livingston Manor gem are centered on the pond and the vast trail systems that originate within the campground. Highlights that make this a top-tier New York destination include:

• The Beach and Swimming Area: A well-maintained sand beach with plenty of green space for sunbathing and family picnics.
• Paddling and Boating: A dedicated boat launch for rowboats, canoes, and kayaks (please note that only electric trolling motors are permitted to maintain the quiet).
• Hiking Trailheads: Direct access to the Big Rock, Karst, and Mongaup-Willowemoc trails, connecting into the 45-mile Big Indian Wilderness system.
• Kid-Friendly Recreation: A modern playground and level paths that are ideal for younger children to explore safely.
• Wildlife Viewing: The pond is a frequent stop for ducks and local fauna, offering a delight for nature photographers and children.
• Fishing: A prime location for catching Brook trout, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are welcome on the campsites (with proof of rabies vaccination), making it a complete family experience.

Contact Information for Mongaup Pond Campground is essential for those looking to secure a spot during the peak summer months. Reservations are highly competitive, especially for the coveted waterfront sites in Loop G, and are typically managed through the ReserveAmerica system.

Address: 231 Mongaup Pond Rd, Livingston Manor, NY 12758, USA
Phone: (845) 439-4233
Mobile Phone: +1 845-439-4233

What is worth choosing Mongaup Pond for? For the New York camper who wants a "true" wilderness experience without the extreme isolation of a backcountry hike-in, Mongaup Pond is the perfect middle ground. It is worth choosing for the sheer scale of the water; the 120-acre pond provides a sense of openness and tranquility that is rare in the densely wooded Catskills. It is also an excellent choice for those who value cleanliness; the renovated shower buildings are frequently cited by regulars as some of the best in the state park system.

Furthermore, it is worth choosing for the community and the location. You have the safety and oversight of a state-run park, but the sites are large enough to feel like your own private slice of the woods. Choosing Mongaup Pond means choosing a place where you can wake up to the sound of ducks on the water, spend your afternoon hiking through old-growth forests, and finish your day with a barbecue in a clean, well-maintained picnic area. For many New Yorkers, this campground isn't just a place to stay—it's a place where the stress of the city finally disappears.

Would you like me to help you identify the best waterfront campsites for your next reservation or provide a guide to the nearby Catskill Fish Hatchery for a day trip?