Sleepy Hollow Campground

- 5636 NY-28, Phoenicia, NY 12464

For New York residents looking for an ideal Catskills retreat that combines breathtaking natural beauty with reliable comfort, Sleepy Hollow Campground in Phoenicia, NY, offers a compelling solution. Situated directly on the picturesque banks of the Esopus Creek, this campground is celebrated by local users for its immaculately maintained facilities and its prime location in one of the region's most popular mountain towns. As a destination for both short-term vacationers and long-term seasonal campers, Sleepy Hollow provides a high-quality, family-friendly environment that is difficult to match in the Catskill Mountains.

Sleepy Hollow Campground is a family-owned operation that prides itself on maintaining a clean and accommodating atmosphere. Reviewers consistently highlight the campground's spotless restrooms and the general upkeep of the grounds, describing it as an "oasis" in the mountains. The setting itself is a major draw: campers are surrounded by the stunning 360-degree views of the Catskill peaks, with the rushing waters of the Esopus Creek—famous for its trout fishing and tubing—running right alongside many of the sites.

This camp is perfect for those who want to disconnect and enjoy the great outdoors, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and simply relaxing by the water. While primarily operating seasonally, typically from May through the beginning of October due to local and state regulations, its consistent quality ensures that many New Yorkers return year after year, eager to secure their spot on the creek and enjoy the peaceful, well-managed environment provided by the owners.

Location and Accessibility

Sleepy Hollow Campground boasts an exceptional location right on a major Catskills artery, making it easily accessible for visitors from New York City and the greater Tri-State Area.

Address: 5636 NY-28, Phoenicia, NY 12464, USA

• Prime Catskills Spot: The campground is located directly on New York State Route 28, the main road that connects Kingston to the heart of the Western Catskills, ensuring smooth travel.
• Proximity to Phoenicia: It is situated just one mile from the quaint and quiet village of Phoenicia. This close proximity allows campers to easily walk or drive into town to visit the famous Phoenicia Diner, browse local shops, or arrange for an inner-tubing trip down the Esopus Creek.
• Creek Frontage: A significant portion of the campsites, including highly sought-after river sites, are located on the banks of the Esopus Creek, one of New York State’s premier trout fishing streams. The creek is also popular for swimming and tubing when water levels permit.
• Accessibility from NYC: The location is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours from New York City by car, making it a perfectly feasible weekend or week-long escape. Crucially, its location near Route 28 also offers one of the few Catskills destinations easily reachable via the Trailways bus service from Manhattan.
• Hiking Gateway: The camp serves as an excellent gateway to numerous area hiking trails, including popular destinations in the nearby Catskill State Park.

Services Offered

Sleepy Hollow Campground provides a suite of high-quality services and amenities, catering well to both tent campers and RV users:

• Full Electric Hookups: The campground features approximately 97 sites, all of which are equipped with electric hookups (30 and 50 AMP service available), a major convenience for RV and trailer owners. Some sites offer additional water and grey water connections, though limited sewer sites are available.
• Riverside, Group, and Seasonal Sites: The facility offers a variety of site types, including premium riverside sites, spacious group sites, and dedicated seasonal sites for those who wish to return for the entire operating season (typically May 1st to early October).
• Immaculate Facilities: The most praised amenity is the cleanliness of the facilities, which include modern restroom buildings with flush toilets and hot showers. Cleanliness is a top priority and the bathrooms are reportedly attended to often throughout the day.
• On-Site Conveniences: The campground includes essential services such as a trailer dump station, a camp store for purchasing necessities (like firewood), and laundry facilities (washers and dryers).
• Comfort Features: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a fireplace/grill grate, providing the necessary infrastructure for cooking and evening campfires.
• Rental Accommodations: In addition to tent and RV sites, the campground offers rental park model cabins, some of which are pet-friendly, for those seeking a more rustic but comfortable stay.

Features / Highlights

The key features that draw New York residents back to Sleepy Hollow Campground season after season are rooted in its location and high operational standards:

• Direct Creek Access and Activities: The campsite's location directly on the Esopus Creek is its premier feature, offering opportunities for excellent trout fishing, swimming in designated areas (when water is high enough), and watching tubers and kayakers navigate the lively waters (especially during white water release dates).
• Exceptional Staff Management: Multiple reviews commend the owners and staff, often citing them as "friendly and accommodating." This hands-on, family-oriented management style contributes significantly to the peaceful, well-run atmosphere of the park.
• Unplugged Escape: While some sites offer limited Wi-Fi/cable, the overall atmosphere in the area encourages an 'unplugged' experience. The relative lack of robust cell service provides a genuine opportunity to disconnect from city life and reconnect with nature and family.
• Proximity to Local Charm: Being only a mile from Phoenicia gives campers easy access to dining, shopping, and local culture. Famous local spots like the Phoenicia Diner are within easy walking distance or a very short drive.
• Commitment to Rules: The campground’s policy emphasizes strict enforcement of rules, particularly the 10:00 PM quiet hours and site maintenance standards. This commitment ensures a consistently pleasant and peaceful experience for all guests, a major positive for those seeking a quiet retreat.

Contact Information

For reservations, seasonal site inquiries, or general information, interested New York campers can use the following details:

Address: 5636 NY-28, Phoenicia, NY 12464, USA

Phone: (845) 688-5471

Mobile Phone: +1 845-688-5471

Note: The campground operates seasonally, typically opening in May and closing after the beginning of October. Inquire directly or check their official site for precise operating dates and to make reservations, which are highly recommended due to the campground's popularity.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

Sleepy Hollow Campground is perfectly tailored for New York locals—from the city to the suburbs—seeking a high-quality, convenient, and traditional Catskills camping experience. Its location on Route 28 is easily reachable, and its position just outside the charming, culture-rich village of Phoenicia provides an ideal balance of wilderness and civilization.

For the resident camper, the campground delivers on the most critical needs: cleanliness, with bathrooms that are consistently "spotless," and reliable utilities, with electric hookups on every site. The ability to choose between short-term weekend stays or a full seasonal commitment makes it flexible for various local lifestyles. Most importantly, it offers the genuine mountain experience—fishing in the Esopus, hiking nearby trails, and sitting by a campfire with the sounds of a rushing creek—all managed by a dedicated team. Sleepy Hollow is more than just a place to park an RV or pitch a tent; it’s a trusted, well-loved, and essential Catskills haven where New York families create long-lasting memories.

Sleepy Hollow Campground

5636 NY-28, Phoenicia, NY 12464, USA