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Catskill/Mongaup Pond
Overview
Mongaup Pond Campground offers a serene escape into the heart of the Catskill Forest Preserve. As the home to the largest lake in the Catskills outside of the reservoir system, this park provides a tranquil waterfront setting for travelers seeking a deep connection with nature. It is a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) facility, known for its secluded, heavily wooded sites and peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from the hustle of city life.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just north of the village of Livingston Manor, NY, the park is nestled within the Sullivan County Catskills. The landscape is defined by rolling hills, dense hardwood forests, and the expansive 120-acre pond. This area is famous for its world-class trout fishing streams nearby, such as the Willowemoc Creek. The remote location ensures dark skies for stargazing and a quiet environment where the sounds of the forest and local wildlife take center stage.
Amenities & Park Features
While this is a rustic destination without on-site electric or water hookups, it provides essential comforts for RVers. The park features a convenient dump station and water filling stations to support self-contained rigs. Guests have access to modern restrooms with hot showers and flush toilets. Recreation is centered around the water, with a sandy swimming beach, a large picnic area, and a boat launch where visitors can rent canoes or rowboats to explore the pond.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore miles of interconnected hiking trails that lead to scenic spots like Frick Pond or the summit of nearby ridges. Anglers will find the pond stocked with smallmouth bass and panfish. A short drive takes you to Livingston Manor, a charming town featuring artisan breweries, local boutiques, and the Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum. The surrounding forest preserve offers endless opportunities for birdwatching and photography throughout the lush summer and vibrant autumn months.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for self-contained RV travelers who prefer a primitive, "off-grid" experience over luxury resort amenities. It is a perfect fit for families who enjoy paddling and swimming, as well as hikers looking for direct access to the Catskill trail system. If your travel style favors quiet nights around a campfire and waking up to the sound of loons on the water, Mongaup Pond is a premier choice for your next mountain getaway.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Warren Wong
Great place to camp if you’re looking to disconnect (there is no cell service or WiFi). This campground has a pond with a small beach. On the weekend we went, many families were enjoying the water, picnic tables, and playing volleyball. The showers and facilities are well kept.
Renzo Cafferata
2025 will mark the 3rd year in a row we are visiting this lovely park. My kids love how close we are the water and all the activities. Boat and kayak rentals are always available and we take advantage.
Aimee Fareth
We like Mongaup Pond, the people at front are always helpful, the pond is lovely for boating, and the noise level isn't too bad at night. The 3 stars for rooms are for the bathrooms, the main bathrooms/showers were pretty dirty, but we can usually deal with that by being prepared. One thing our group was not prepared for was that we couldn't rent the boats - that's one main reason we pick this place. The money they would make in renting boats they could just pay for an extra staff and just limit the hours. I understand, it's easier said than done. We're going again next weekend with another group, hopefully there is a staff to do the boats! 🙏🛶
John P
Visited for the beach/pond. The beach itself is small, but well maintained with plenty of green space, and bbq areas. The water is warm, and there were plenty of ducks running around when we visited. The kids at the beach lived chasing the ducks, who seemed to love playing with the kids as well. The bathrooms and showers are very clean. The showers themselves have hot water that is the standard button-press system. The stalls are individual stalls. I can see there being a wait on a very busy weekend, but didn't need to wait myself. We took a drive around and the campsites looked to all be well maintained: level with nice fire stations for your grilling needs. Plenty of water points. The attendant at the front gate was incredibly nice and helpful. He genuinely seemed like he enjoyed his job, and is a credit to the park.
Lady Greville
Lovely campground with nicely spaced, mostly wooded sites. ❤️ The lake is great for paddling and fishing (no motors allowed). There's a swimming area for those who want to do that (leave your inflatable at home). The showers down by the day use area are fantastic. Bathrooms in each loop have flush toilets and a sink. Maintenance staff does a good job of keeping things clean and stocked. There's a trail around the lake with plenty of other hiking trails that connect. There are no hookups for RVs, which we don't mind. We used a collapsible water jug to fill up 5 gallons at a time as needed and have plenty of battery power. Staff at the check-in booth are very nice, helpful, and knowledgeable. As with most campgrounds, the only real problem is the people who don't understand or don't care about camping etiquette. If you're going to go, please take care of your site and clean up after yourself. We've seen far too many people leaving trash and junk on campsites and in the day use area. The maintenance staff is there to take care of the place, not be your maids. Likewise, be mindful of how loud your music is - it's fine to have a good time, but people in the next site (or across the lake) shouldn't be having to listen to your playlist. A little consideration makes it better for everyone.