Little Pond Campground

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For New Yorkers seeking a genuine escape into nature, away from the constant noise and rush of urban life, the Catskill Forest Preserve offers countless serene havens. Among these, Little Pond Campground in Andes, NY, stands out as a destination for those who prioritize peace, quiet, and a deep connection with the outdoors. Operated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), this campground provides a more traditional and regulated camping experience, ensuring a tranquil environment for all visitors.

As locals, we often yearn for places where we can truly unwind and reconnect with the natural world. Little Pond Campground, with its commitment to maintaining a quiet and patrolled atmosphere, offers just that. While it might have specific guidelines that some find strict, these rules are in place to preserve the very tranquility that attracts many campers. This article will delve into what makes Little Pond Campground a suitable choice for New Yorkers looking for a relaxing, nature-focused getaway, covering its location, amenities, and the unique aspects of camping here.

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Little Pond Campground is a picturesque and quiet campground nestled within the expansive Catskill Forest Preserve. It offers a classic camping experience focused on enjoying the natural surroundings. With 67 tent and trailer sites, plus 8 "remote" tent sites, it caters to various camping styles, though it's important to note that it primarily offers primitive sites without direct utility hookups (no water, electric, or sewer connections at individual sites).

Operated by the NYSDEC, Little Pond is known for its well-enforced regulations, which contribute significantly to its peaceful atmosphere. This means visitors can expect quiet nights and a respectful camping environment, ideal for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The campground is centered around a beautiful 13-acre pond, offering opportunities for paddling, fishing, and simply enjoying the scenic views. It's a place where you can relax, read, and observe wildlife, providing a stark contrast to more bustling, amenity-heavy campgrounds.

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Little Pond Campground is located at 549 Barkaboom Rd, Andes, NY 13731, USA. This address places it deep within the western Catskill Mountains, in the charming town of Andes. The Catskill Forest Preserve is a vast and protected area, known for its rugged beauty, extensive hiking trails, and world-class fishing streams.

For New York locals, reaching Andes involves a scenic drive into the heart of the Catskills. While the campground offers a sense of seclusion, it's still accessible. Nearby towns like Andes, Margaretville, and Livingston Manor provide essential services, including small shops, gas stations, and local eateries, typically within a 20-mile radius. Larger towns or cities for more extensive shopping or specialized services would be a bit further, but the beauty of Little Pond is its focus on being a natural escape.

The location is particularly appealing for those interested in fishing, as the Beaverkill River, a world-renowned fly-fishing stream, is just minutes away. The Pepacton Reservoir is also nearby, though fishing there requires a special permit from the NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). While public transportation options are limited in this rural setting, the roads leading to the campground are generally well-maintained, allowing for easy access by personal vehicle.

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As a NYSDEC campground, Little Pond focuses on providing essential services that support a comfortable, yet rustic, camping experience. Amenities are designed to facilitate outdoor recreation and maintain the natural integrity of the preserve:

• Campsite Rentals: Offering 67 tent and trailer sites, plus 8 more remote tent sites for those seeking greater solitude. Each site includes a picnic table and a fire ring/grill.

• Flush Toilets & Hot Showers: Unlike many primitive campgrounds, Little Pond provides the convenience of flush toilets and hot showers, which are generally well-maintained (though some reviews note occasional issues, common in public campgrounds).

• Trailer Dump Station & Recycling Center: Essential facilities for RV campers, allowing for waste disposal and encouraging environmental responsibility.

• Water Access: Potable drinking water is available within the campground.

• Firewood & Ice Sales: Conveniently, firewood and ice can be purchased on-site, saving campers a trip to town.

• Swimming Beach: A designated sandy beach area is available for swimming in Little Pond. It is unsupervised by lifeguards, and a brochure outlining safety guidelines is provided upon arrival.

• Boat Launch & Rentals: A boat launch is available for rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats. Rentals for these non-motorized vessels are also offered, providing easy access to the pond for water activities.

• Playground: A small playground is available for children, adding a family-friendly element.

• Picnic Pavilion & Area: A picnic pavilion can be rented, and general picnic areas with tables and grills are available for day use.

• Sports Areas: Courts/areas for volleyball, horseshoes, soccer, and basketball are sometimes available, though specifics can vary seasonally.

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Little Pond Campground offers several key features and highlights that make it a distinct and appealing camping destination for locals:

• Peaceful & Quiet Environment: This is a major highlight, with strict enforcement of quiet hours (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) and general park rules contributing to a serene atmosphere. It’s ideal for those truly wanting to relax and enjoy nature without loud distractions.

• Beautiful Catskill Forest Preserve Setting: The campground is nestled in a picturesque part of the Catskills, offering stunning natural beauty, clear skies for stargazing, and fresh mountain air.

• Excellent Hiking Opportunities: The campground features a leisurely 0.75-mile loop trail around Little Pond. It also serves as a trailhead for more challenging hikes onto the 27,000+ acre Delaware Wild Forest, including trails leading to the ruins of an old farm or offering breathtaking views from atop the Touchmenot Mountains.

• Paddling & Fishing on Little Pond: The 13-acre pond is perfect for non-motorized boating and fishing for panfish. Rentals are available on-site, making it easy to get on the water.

• Proximity to World-Class Fly Fishing: The renowned Beaverkill River is just minutes away, attracting anglers from around the globe.

• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding forest provides opportunities to spot deer, coyotes, various bird species, and potentially even bears and wild turkeys.

• Well-Maintained Basic Amenities: While primitive in terms of hookups, the presence of flush toilets, hot showers, and a dump station enhances the comfort level compared to truly rustic camping.

• Strictly Enforced Rules for Order: While some visitors might find the rules (e.g., limits on vehicles and tents, arrival times, noise) restrictive, these regulations are key to maintaining the tranquil environment that many campers seek.

One review notes that sites 25, 26, 28, and 29 are waterfront and offer good privacy, which can be a valuable tip for those seeking prime spots. However, potential visitors, especially younger groups or those used to more lenient rules, should be aware of the strict enforcement of policies regarding noise, number of vehicles/tents, and check-in times to ensure a positive experience.

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As a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) campground, Little Pond Campground operates on a fixed fee schedule determined by the state, rather than offering commercial "promotions" or "special offers." The pricing structure is transparent and consistent across DEC campgrounds.

• Standard Rates: The cost is typically $22 per night for a campsite. An additional $5 per night surcharge applies to out-of-state residents.

• Reservation System: Reservations are required and can be made online through Reserve America or via their call center. Same-day reservations are allowed until 5 p.m. on the day of arrival, but walk-ins are not permitted.

• Length of Stay Limits: Camping permits are issued for a maximum of 14 nights. From July 1 through Labor Day, only 14 cumulative nights are permitted at any DEC campground.

While there are no discounts in the traditional sense, the value lies in the affordable access to a well-maintained state park, offering numerous natural attractions and essential amenities at a reasonable price point. For the most current rates and reservation availability, always refer to the official New York State Parks or Reserve America website.

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To inquire about reservations, campground rules, or specific site availability at Little Pond Campground, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: 549 Barkaboom Rd, Andes, NY 13731, USA

• Phone: (845) 439-5480

• Mobile Phone: +1 845-439-5480

For making reservations, the most reliable method is through the Reserve America website or their toll-free number (1-800-456-2267). Direct calls to the campground phone number can be helpful for specific questions about the site or local conditions.

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For New Yorkers seeking an authentic, tranquil camping experience in the heart of the Catskills, Little Pond Campground is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a quiet environment, where strictly enforced rules ensure that peace and respect for nature prevail. Families will find it appealing for its playground, easy hiking trails, and safe pond for swimming and non-motorized boating, while anglers will be drawn to its proximity to world-class trout streams like the Beaverkill.

The campground offers a valuable opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and immerse oneself in the beauty of the Catskill Forest Preserve. While it's crucial for visitors to be aware of and adhere to the DEC's regulations regarding vehicle limits, noise, and check-in times, these guidelines are precisely what preserve the serene atmosphere that makes Little Pond so special. For those who value nature over nightlife, and a truly relaxing outdoor escape over extensive amenities, Little Pond Campground provides an ideal setting for creating cherished memories right here in New York.

Little Pond Campground

549 Barkaboom Rd, Andes, NY 13731, USA