There’s something about the colder months that just begs for a cozy log cabin and crackling fireplace. And while there are no shortage of cabins in the Catskills, finding a spot that is both comfortable and well-designed is a harder ask. Luckily we found this recently opened boutique property called Camptown (from the same team at Rivertown Lodge in nearby Hudson) that made for a perfect winter weekend escape. We were provided with all the creature comforts (and service level) of a hotel while making us feel like we had our own little private cabin in the woods.
Exclusive perks when booking with us
Let us add some extra perks to your stay at Camptown! Benefits you’ll receive with us include:
- Upgrade to next room category, based upon availability at check-in
- Guaranteed 1pm late check-out
- Complimentary bottled water (2 bottles per room, on arrival)
- Camptown signature lightly smoked lager beer (max 2 guests)
The Property
Camptown is located in the town of Leeds, New York and situated in the Catskills region. It’s comprised of 24 hotel guest rooms and 26 individual cabins that are spread throughout the property, as well as a lobby, bar, and restaurant at the front of the property. Across the grounds you’ll find a fire pit, grills, picnic tables, sauna, and their pool is set to open Spring of 2024. Plus, they’re pet friendly!
We loved how there were different spaces to lounge and walk around without having to leave the property. And all the spaces around the rooms and cabins felt quiet and intimate.
It’s also worth noting that the entire property is impeccably designed, and the owners Ray Pirkle and Kim Bucci have a serious eye for adding beautiful details and decor to the spaces.
The Accommodations
Another reason we loved Camptown was because they have two bedroom cabins that make it easy to do a trip with friends and share a common space. They have 1 and 2 bedroom cabins with kitchenettes, and we opted for the one with a wood-burning stove. Everything was set up when we arrived, with fire starter kits and logs all ready to go. There were thoughtful touches everywhere and the attention to detail is what really set the living spaces apart.
The cabin interiors were covered with beautiful woodwork, and there was ample seating from lounge chairs to an outdoor swing. Our bathroom had heated flooring which was already on when we walked in, and the 2 Note amenities smelled divine. Another example of a detail we appreciated was the bathroom mirror medicine cabinet, which gave us so much space to put our toiletries.
In the bedrooms, we found luxurious linen duvets, fluffy pillows and super supportive mattresses. Each bedroom also came equipped with a heater that kept us extra cozy overnight.
Our space also included both a living room table and a kitchen table, which would have been perfect for longer stays if we wanted to cook some meals ourselves. They do have a Pantry stocked with goods that you can access at any time of day, but we’d also recommend doing your shopping beforehand if you want to save a couple bucks.
The Food & Drink
Casa Susanna is the on-site restaurant and we were incredibly excited to dine there for dinner. Chef Efrén Hernández is currently a James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef in New York State and we have to say the praise is well justified. The Catskills are not necessarily a known destination for Mexican cuisine, but at Casa Susanna we felt transported. Their tortillas are all made in house, and the level of creativity and quality in the dishes blew us away. They also serve brunch at the restaurant which we’ll have to come back for next time.
Some must orders for dinner were the Blood Sausage Tamal, Boquerones Tostada, Whole Grilled Mackerel Al Pastor, and Duck Leg Confit. We also enjoyed their cocktails, which we had with dinner but they’re also served in the separate bar area.
While we didn’t stay for brunch, we did make sure to come by in the morning for the complimentary tea & coffee service. Casa Susanna is also known for their concha pastries which we made sure to try – they were warm and fluffy with a crunchy top, just absolutely delightful.
A note on seating: You can enjoy your meal in the main dining room, or in the adjacent lobby by the fireplace. Both are equally beautiful but it’s worth noting that the lobby sofas are also open to other guests who may be lounging around.
The Service
All of the staff we interacted with at Camptown were extremely friendly and helpful. Starting with check-in, they were accommodating with helping us upgrade our cabin and noting amenity offerings like robes for the sauna if we wanted to use it.
They also helped make the experience feel very personal. We had initially booked a late dinner and were hoping for an earlier slot when we checked in. The restaurant had no openings at the time, but they proactively called us later when they had a last minute cancellation. The staff also remembered things we ordered or said and would check in about them – all small service touches that make guests feel extra welcomed and taken care of.
The Surrounding Areas
With charming towns, historic sites, and plenty of nature nearby, we think Camptown is a great base to explore the Catskills in any season.
In the Winter, go skiing at Hunter or Windham Mountains, both of which are ~25 miles west. Just across the Rip Van Winkle Bridge is the Olana State Historic Site, and further north you can find Art Omi or the town of Hudson. If you fancy going off the property for a meal, we highly recommend checking out Gracie’s Luncheonette.
For more things to do, check out Camptown’s roundup on their website. Our little getaway was more perfect than we could have imagined and we can’t wait to come back and explore more of the Catskills!