The Beaver-Del Campground

The Beaver-Del Campground, affectionately known by locals as "The Del," is a quintessential Catskill destination that perfectly blends the rugged beauty of New York’s wilderness with the comforting hospitality of a family-run establishment. Located in the picturesque hamlet of East Branch, this campground sits on over 18 acres of lush, green landscape along the banks of the East Branch of the Delaware River. For New York residents looking to escape the relentless pace of urban life, The Beaver-Del serves as a sanctuary where the primary sounds are the flowing river and the crackle of a evening campfire. It is a unique hybrid facility, featuring not only diverse camping options but also a boutique hotel, a full-service bar, and a restaurant, ensuring that every type of traveler feels at home.

What sets The Beaver-Del apart from standard state-run facilities is its warm, community-focused atmosphere. Owned and operated by the Shean family, the campground is managed with a personal touch that transforms first-time visitors into lifelong regulars. Life here is built around simpler principles: beautiful scenery, fresh mountain air, and some of the most extraordinary trout fishing in the United States. Whether you are arriving with a group of friends for a weekend of fishing or bringing the family for their first tent-camping adventure, the park offers a welcoming environment where dogs are treated like guests and every campsite feels like a private slice of the Catskills.

The Beaver-Del is located at 8560 County Road 17 in East Branch, NY 13756. Its location in Delaware County makes it a prime getaway for residents throughout the Tri-State area. From Binghamton, the drive is a convenient 45 minutes, while those traveling from New York City can reach the grounds in approximately two to two-and-a-half hours via the Quickway (NY-17/I-86). The campground is situated near the junction of the Beaverkill and Delaware rivers, a landmark area famous globally among the fly-fishing community.

Accessibility and ease of arrival are hallmarks of the property. The entrance is designed to be easily navigable, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a dedicated accessible parking lot. The check-in process is conveniently handled at the on-site bar, allowing guests to kick off their vacation with a friendly greeting and immediate access to park information. For those with larger rigs, the park offers well-maintained RV sites that can accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet in length, with wide enough paths to ensure a stress-free setup. Most tent sites are situated directly on the riverbank, providing "drive-up" convenience that eliminates the need for long hauls of gear from the car to the site.

• Large, riverside tent sites that are significantly larger than average, accommodating multiple tents and vehicles with ease.
• RV camping sites featuring water and electric hookups (30-amp and 50-amp options available).
• Full hook-up RV sites that include sewage, water, and electricity for long-term or seasonal comfort.
• Modern bathhouse facility located in the center of the campground, featuring hot showers and running water.
• On-site bar and restaurant ("The River Room") serving local brews, spirits, and a full menu including their famous wings and chili.
• Firewood and ice available for purchase directly on the grounds, saving campers a trip to town.
• Game room equipped with billiards and cornhole, providing a great indoor social space during rainy weather.
• Shuttle services for fishermen and boaters, facilitating easy drift boat launches and pick-ups along the river.
• Dog-friendly policies that encourage visitors to bring their well-behaved canine companions along for the trip.

The highlights of a stay at The Beaver-Del often revolve around the incredible natural features and the lively social hub provided by the main lodge. The "East Branch" is the star of the show, offering crystal-clear water that is a playground for both humans and wildlife. Birdwatchers frequently spot Cedar Waxwings and American Redstarts, while anglers vie for the world-famous wild brown and brook trout that inhabit the pools and riffles just steps from the campsites.

• Direct riverfront access for every riverside campsite, allowing for private fishing and wading right from your "front door."
• World-class fly fishing at the meeting point of the Upper Delaware and Beaver Kill rivers.
• Spacious sites equipped with heavy-duty fire rings and sturdy picnic tables for the perfect outdoor dining experience.
• Boat launch facilities specifically designed for drift boats and kayaks.
• Exceptional stargazing opportunities due to the low light pollution in the East Branch valley.
• The Blue-Stone Patio at the main lodge, a perfect spot for sunset cocktails and socializing with fellow travelers.
• A family-friendly environment with plenty of open green space for children to play lawn games and explore safely.
• Proximity to the historic covered bridges and hiking trails of the Delaware Wild Forest.

For those interested in booking a stay, it is recommended to call the main office directly, especially for RV sites which frequently sell out for the season. The campground typically operates from May through October, though the lodge and bar may have varied seasonal hours.

Address: 8560 County Road 17, East Branch, NY 13756, USA

Phone: (607) 363-7443

What makes The Beaver-Del Campground worth choosing is the unparalleled combination of space and amenities. While many New York campgrounds crowd sites together, The Del provides sites that are three to four times the size of standard plots, giving your group the "breathing room" that is so essential for a relaxing trip. The presence of a high-quality restaurant and bar on the grounds is a significant "value-add" for tent campers; it means that if a sudden Catskill rainstorm rolls in, you have a warm, dry place to enjoy a hot meal and a game of pool rather than being confined to your tent.

Furthermore, the expertise of the staff regarding the local waterways makes this an essential stop for serious anglers. The availability of shuttle services and professional guide options ensures that you spend more time on the water and less time worrying about logistics. When you combine the massive, bird-filled trees, the pristine river views, and the genuine kindness of owners like Elise and Becky, it becomes clear why The Beaver-Del is considered one of the best-kept secrets in the New York camping scene. For a professional yet soulful outdoor experience, "The Del" is the definitive choice for your next Catskill adventure.