Mongaup Pond State Park
Livingston Manor, NY

Although the park itself is 680 acres, it is surrounded by thousands of acres of NY State Forest Preserve. Mongaup Pond is 120 acres, one of the biggest lakes in the Catskills. There are 163 family campsites, flush toilets and hot showers.

The park borders an extensive trail system, the Willowemac Long Pond Wild Forest Hiking Area, 14,800 acres of forever wild forest preserve. Approximately 25 miles of trails are easily accessible from the park. Mountain bikes, cross-country skiing and snowmobiles are allowed on some trails. For longer hikes and backpacks, the trails connect to the Catskills Trails system.

There are also paved roads for bicycles.

The park is near the Catskill Fish Hatchery (15 miles), and the following historic sites: D and H Canal Locks; Fort Delaware; Minisink Battleground Memorial Park; Stone Arch Bridge Park; Sullivan County Historical Museum, Art and Cultural Center; and the Roebling Suspension Bridge over the Delaware River.

The lake sites are taken quickly. If you want one, you had better make a reservation. You can't set up after 9 PM. The park staff is very friendly and environmentally conscious.

Although no hunting is allowed in the park, you can hunt in the preserve surrounding it.

Driving directions: Take New York Route 17 West to exit 96 (Livingston Manor-De Bruce), and go left on De Bruce Road for 5 or 6 miles. The park entrance is on the left. Drive for several miles to the public campground.

Address: R.R. Box 314, De Bruce Road, Livingston Manor, NY 12758
Phone: 845-439-4233