Safari Club

For those seeking a unique outdoor experience in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, Safari Club in Big Indian, New York, offers a distinctive blend of traditional camping and rustic glamping. Nestled along the historic Route 28 corridor, this destination provides New York residents and visitors with a tranquil escape into one of the state’s most scenic wilderness regions. The Safari Club is characterized by its intimate setting and its focus on providing a comfortable yet authentic connection to nature. Unlike massive, sprawling campgrounds, this location offers a more personalized atmosphere that allows families and outdoor enthusiasts to truly appreciate the quiet beauty of the Esopus Creek and the surrounding high peaks of Ulster County.

The concept of Safari Club centers on the idea of an accessible wilderness retreat. It is designed for those who want to experience the "great outdoors" without the logistical stress of traditional backcountry packing. For local users in New York, it serves as an ideal weekend getaway that bridges the gap between the rugged Big Indian Wilderness and the comforts of managed lodging. The grounds are meticulously kept to preserve the park-like setting, featuring views of the mountains and easy access to the water. It has become a notable spot for those looking to introduce their children to the wonders of the Catskills, providing a safe and engaging environment for the next generation of hikers and campers to explore.

The location of Safari Club at 8291 NY-28 in Big Indian makes it remarkably easy to find while remaining deep within the mountain landscape. Big Indian is a historic hamlet known as a gateway to some of the highest peaks in the Catskills, including Slide Mountain. For New Yorkers traveling from the south, the drive through the Hudson Valley and into the mountains is a straightforward trip up the New York State Thruway to Route 28. This road is the primary artery through the Catskill Park, ensuring that the campground is accessible year-round, though the primary camping season typically follows the traditional New York summer and autumn schedule.

Accessibility at Safari Club is excellent for a mountain retreat. The property is situated just off the main road, minimizing the need for navigating steep or unpaved mountain tracks that can often be daunting for those in standard passenger vehicles. Its central location in the Big Indian valley means that while you feel secluded on the property, you are only a short drive away from the neighboring villages of Phoenicia and Pine Hill. This proximity allows guests to enjoy the isolation of the campsite during the day and easily access local diners, supply shops, and recreational outfitters when needed. The layout of the grounds is designed to be navigable, with dedicated parking areas and clear pathways to the various amenities and the creek.

Safari Club offers a variety of services designed to enhance the stay of every guest, whether they are staying in a furnished tent or using the grounds for general recreation. The management focuses on providing the essentials for a comfortable outdoor stay, ensuring that the basic needs of modern travelers are met without detracting from the natural environment. The services are tailored to support a "glamping" style of experience, making it a turnkey solution for a mountain holiday.

• Furnished tent accommodations featuring comfortable bedding and interior décor.
• Shuttle services available for guests to help navigate local attractions and transit points.
• Professional on-site management to assist with guest check-ins and property orientation.
• Fishing gear rentals and guidance for those looking to test their skills in the Esopus Creek.
• Secured and accessible parking lot for all guests, including those with larger vehicles.
• Outdoor dining infrastructure, including dining tables and furniture provided at each site.
• Organized trash removal and site maintenance to keep the area pristine and wildlife-safe.

The highlights and features of Safari Club are what set it apart from other roadside campgrounds in the region. The property emphasizes its natural water features and its panoramic views of the Catskill peaks. For families, the focus on being "good for kids" means the environment is curated to be safe and engaging for younger visitors, who often find the mix of forest and creek to be a natural playground.

• Direct access to the Esopus Creek, one of the premier trout fishing and tubing rivers in the state.
• Scenic mountain views that provide a stunning backdrop for photography and relaxation.
• On-site fire pits and BBQ facilities at each campsite for classic evening campfires.
• Unique "Safari" style platform tents that offer a weather-protected and elevated sleeping experience.
• A garden area and sun terrace designed for quiet relaxation and mountain air.
• Proximity to the Slide Mountain trailhead, allowing for world-class hiking just minutes away.
• A pet-free environment in certain areas to ensure a quiet and allergy-friendly experience for all guests.
• Outdoor fireplaces and patios that encourage social interaction and cozy evenings.

For individuals or families looking to book a stay or inquire about seasonal rates at Safari Club, the following contact information can be used. It is always recommended to reach out in advance, as the unique nature of the glamping tents means they often book up quickly during peak foliage and summer holidays.

Address: 8291 NY-28, Big Indian, NY 12410, USA

Phone: For booking and current availability, please refer to local lodging directories or visit the site directly on NY-28.

Choosing Safari Club is worth it for New Yorkers who want to experience the Catskills in a way that feels intentional and special. While there are many places to pitch a tent in the Big Indian Wilderness, Safari Club offers a curated "bonus in the woods" experience that takes the guesswork out of camping. The "worth" is found in the time saved and the comfort gained—having a bed and a furnished space ready upon arrival means more time spent by the creek and less time struggling with tent poles. It is a particularly strong choice for parents who want their children to love the outdoors; as one guest noted, their kids "loved visiting the Catskills," a sentiment often echoed by those who appreciate the approachable nature of this specific site.

Furthermore, the property’s location on the Esopus Creek provides an invaluable natural amenity. Whether you are an avid fly-fisherman or simply someone who finds the sound of running water therapeutic, the creek is a central part of the Safari Club experience. The combination of professional management, furnished accommodations, and prime mountain location makes this campground a standout investment for your vacation time. It represents the best of the "new" Catskills—honoring the tradition of mountain camping while providing the modern standards of comfort that today's travelers expect. For a safe, clean, and memorable New York mountain retreat, Safari Club remains a top recommendation in the Big Indian valley.