Tucked into the mountains of Upstate New York, the Catskills are home to some of the region’s most compelling cabin stays. These retreats — from lakefront cottages in Roscoe to timber-clad chalets in Big Indian and minimalist hideaways near Saugerties — pair considered design with close proximity to nature.

Set within a few hours’ drive of New York City, the best Catskills cabins offer quiet settings, access to hiking trails and rivers, and the character of nearby small towns. Each one is designed for unhurried days and a deeper connection to the landscape.

The Vibe: Nostalgic lakefront getaway for couples or groups

Best Cabin Features: Private lake frontage, guest house, cozy stone fireplace, and the waterside fire pit

Set on the banks of Lake Muskoday in Roscoe, Two Good Cabins offers two side-by-side retreats designed for relaxation and connection. The main cabin, anchored by a stone fireplace, includes a spacious kitchen, three bedrooms, and a wraparound porch with a large al fresco dining area overlooking the water. Just across the walkway, the guest cabin provides private quarters, expanding the rental’s capacity to nine guests.

Outside, the lake is available for swimming and boating through early fall, while evenings are best spent around the stone firepit, enjoying conversation, stargazing, and the quiet of the water.

Photos: Clay Banks

Ready to plan a weekend? Here’s our must-sees in the area:

• Dinner and drinks at The Junction: In town, The Junction is a cozy spot to settle in by the fire with a cocktail. Their rotating frozen specials are a favorite, alongside a menu of comfort food.
• Tours at Buck Brook Alpacas: The farm tour at Buck Brook Alpacas is, arguably, the cutest around. Tours run six times daily, with reservations strongly recommended.
• Hiking the Mud Pond Trail: A relatively easy hike through the woods, the Mud Pond Trail is a quick way to take in fall foliage without much climbing. Don’t miss the waterfall spur near the beginning of the trail to Russell Brook Falls.

The Vibe: Elevated sleep-away camp near hiking and skiing

Best Cabin Features: Wraparound porch, log-cabin construction, spacious interiors, and proximity to Windham Mountain

Set on 2.5 wooded acres, The Moon Cabin is a rustic-luxe log home crafted for rest and reconnection. Inside, soaring ceilings and exposed beams frame an open living area centered around a wood stove, while multiple bedrooms, cozy reading nooks, and a sunlit breakfast alcove create inviting spaces for families or groups.

Outside, an expansive deck with couches, a built-in barbecue, and a fire pit overlooks a private pond, offering a quiet spot for morning coffee or evening stargazing. The property borders New York State land, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring the trails of the Northern Catskills.

Photos: Matt Petricone (1, 2, 4 + 5) and c/o Windham Mountain (3)

Windham shifts with the seasons – here’s what to look forward to year-round:

• Lunch at Lucky Catskills: Just fifteen minutes away in Tannersville, Lucky Catskills is a weekend Asian café serving breakfast and lunch. Highlights include soup dumplings, dan dan noodles, and sweet red bean buns.
• Skiing at Windham Mountain: The town of Windham is known for its skiing, centered around the Windham Mountain Club. The Catskills ski season runs from late November through early April, making it easy to get on the slopes.
• Hiking Black Dome and Blackhead Mountain: Set in the Northern Catskills, the challenging trail over Black Dome and Blackhead Mountain rewards hikers with panoramic views at the summit.

The Vibe: Whimsical Bavarian cottage in the forest

Our Favorite Features: 360° hearth, whimsical design details, and outdoor gathering spaces

Black Forest Haus is a chalet that blends Bavarian charm with Catskills character. Inside, whitewashed, wood-clad interiors provide an airy backdrop, while stained glass windows and two fireplaces — including a dramatic 360° hearth in the kitchen — bring warmth and character to the space.

Just steps from the front door, a bonus writer’s cabin is nestled on the hillside, offering a quiet retreat for creative work. Outside, guests can gather around the stone fire pit or take in sweeping mountain views from the raised wraparound deck.

Photos: Moriah Aslan Photography (1-4) and c/o Black Forest Haus (5)

Tucked into the Northern Catskills, here’s what exploring Big Indian looks like:

• Beers at West Kill Brewing: A short drive from Black Forest Haus, West Kill Brewing serves freshly brewed beer in a picturesque setting.
• Hiking the Giant Ledge and Panther Mountain Trail: A moderate-to-difficult 6.5-mile hike, the Giant Ledge and Panther Mountain Trail is one of the region’s most popular, offering sweeping Catskills views along the way. (For a shorter but very rewarding hike, just do the Giant Ledge portion.)
• Dinner at Dandelion: At Eastwind Oliverea’s on-site restaurant, Dandelion, start with a craft cocktail at the bar before settling in by the vintage-inspired wood stove for dinner.

The Vibe: Quaint cabin comfort with classic character

Our Favorite Features: On-site waterfall, vintage Jøtul stove, and classic A-frame design

Set among the hemlocks of the Northern Catskills, Waterfall Casita is a classic A-frame cabin built for nature enthusiasts. The cabin sits just steps from a 30-foot waterfall at the heart of the sprawling 33-acre property.

Inside, a vintage Jøtul wood stove defines the living space, while vaulted ceilings and a lofted bedroom give the cabin a surprisingly spacious feel. Sliding glass doors open onto a raised deck with sweeping views of the Catskills, creating a serene backdrop for this mountain retreat.

Photos: Rebecca Perez (1) and Kara McCurdy (2-5)

While you’re in Margaretville, here’s a few spots worth keeping on your list:

• Drinks at Oda Wine Garden: Oda Wine Garden, a Balkan-inspired wine bar, specializes in ancient world and natural wines and is paired with a separate bottle shop, Sun + Soil.
• Hiking the Shavertown Trail: A moderately challenging route through forests and past ponds, the Shavertown Trail ends with a sweeping view of the Pepacton Reservoir.
• Brunch and Provisions at Mornings: In nearby Arkville, Mornings is a family-run Korean café and market, serving rice-based dishes, sandwiches, and weekend brunch alongside a selection of Korean provisions.

The Vibe: Cozy, moody, and Nordic-inspired

Our Favorite Features: Airy timber-lined interiors, a cozy fireplace lounge, forested location, and restrained design

Clad in wood and set just outside the hamlet of Bovina, Brushland’s Owl Nest is a mountaintop perch that feels both remote and connected. Cathedral ceilings and light-filled interiors create an airy backdrop for a cozy living space with a wood-burning stove, while reading nooks throughout the home enhance its intimate feel.

Upstairs, two bedrooms sleep up to four guests, accompanied by a bathroom with a vintage clawfoot soaking tub. Outside, the covered front porch extends the gathering areas, and the surrounding canopy of trees offers privacy without seclusion.

Photos: Christian Harder (1-4) and Noah Kalina (5)

Farm country with mountain views and destination dining:

• Prix-Fixe Meals at Brushland Eating House: With a menu that changes weekly, Brushland Eating House makes each visit a new experience. The prix-fixe dinner is served course by course to individual tables, creating a communal feel.
• Dinner Parties at Bovina Farm and Fermentory: Set on 20 acres of woods and meadows, Bovina Farm and Fermentory combines a brewery with a small restaurant, hosting seasonal dinners and weekend feasts throughout the year.
• Hiking Bramley Mountain: One of the Western Catskills’ most popular hikes, the Bramley Mountain Trail passes a quarry, stone walls, caves, and cliffs before reaching a fire tower with sweeping views.

The Vibe: Quintessential log cabin with elevated, airy interiors

Our Favorite Features: Cedar barrel sauna, creekside dining space, stone fireplace, and lofted second floor with catwalk

Little River is a stylish log cabin set on the banks of Halway Brook. Interiors blend vintage Danish, Mexican, and American mid-century pieces with the glow of a grand stone fireplace, while a lofted second story offers a quiet retreat from the main level.

Outside, a cedar barrel sauna, hammock, outdoor shower, bocce court, and extra-long dining table beside the creek create spaces for both relaxation and gathering. Evenings are best spent around the fire pit under a canopy of stars, with 600 acres of private forest providing miles of easy hiking just beyond the cabin.

Photos: Marcus Lloyd (1), Catskills Image (2-4), and Lana Phan (5)

Beyond the property, the surrounding area offers plenty to explore — here’s where to start:

• Hiking the Mongaup River Trail: The Mongaup River Trail offers a leisurely hike along the Mongaup River, passing scenic water views and a historic cemetery.
• Shopping in Barryville: The neighboring town of Barryville is home to several destination-worthy shops, including Bad Goods Vintage and Sullivan Public.
• River Trips on the Delaware: From late May through late September, Kittatinny Canoes offers canoeing, rafting, kayaking, and tubing nearby — with some rapid-heavy stretches for those after more adventure.

The Vibe: Dreamy rustic cabin surrounded by lush greenery

Our Favorite Features: Wood-burning stove, outdoor shower, oversized windows, screened porch, and floating deck with outdoor fireplace

The Cabin by The Hunter Houses is a secluded, two-bedroom, one-bath retreat built in the 1930s and recently renovated for comfort and charm. Set on 4.5 acres that back up to state-protected land, the property offers a quiet, restorative escape. Inside, wood-clad interiors, oversized windows, and a screened porch invite natural light and forest views. A wood-burning stove anchors the living space, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Outside, a floating deck with an outdoor fireplace, a charcoal grill, covered seating and dining area, and an open yard offer plenty of options for soaking in the mountain air. An outdoor shower adds a touch of adventure, while the river nearby and roaming trails through the backwoods encourage slow mornings and long afternoon walks.

Photos: c/o The Hunter Houses

Exploring the towns of the Northern Catskills:

• Shopping at Paracasa in Hensonville: On the way, stop at Paracasa to pick up pantry staples, local provisions, and baked goods to carry through the weekend.
• Skiing at Hunter Mountain: The Catskills’ ski season stretches nearly five months, offering plenty of time to explore nearby slopes. Hunter Mountain features over 75% intermediate-advanced terrain, making it a prime destination for experienced skiers.
• Dinner at Matilda: Matilda, The Henson’s seasonally inspired restaurant, sets a moody tone — ideal for post-ski dinners or cocktails in low lighting.

The Vibe: Sophisticated, minimalist, and rooted in nature

Our Favorite Features: Wall of glass doors, open layout, and views of Overlook Mountain

Once a maple syrup production site, this 27-acre retreat has been reimagined as a modern-rustic guesthouse. Inside, The Sugar Shack features wood-clad interiors, concrete floors with radiant heat, and an open living space warmed by a wood-burning stove.

The layout flows naturally into the dining area and chef’s kitchen, encouraging connection and ease of movement. Vaulted ceilings and a wall of glass doors flood the space with light, while sliding doors open onto a covered patio with views of Overlook Mountain. Surrounded by meadows and forest, the property offers a secluded Catskills backdrop with easy access to nearby towns and trails.

Photos: Catskill Image (1-4) and China Jorrin (5)

Here’s a closer look at what’s happening in and around Saugerties:

• Exploring Opus 40: Rising from an abandoned quarry, Opus 40 is a sprawling six-acre environmental sculpture, where winding paths and dramatic stone formations create a striking, leisurely walk.
• Antiquing in Town: Saugerties is filled with vintage and antiques shops worth browsing, including Chambers Vintage, Saugerties Antiques Center, and Pop Vintage Antiques.
• Hiking Overlook Mountain: One of the region’s most popular hikes, the Overlook Mountain Trail leads past the ruins of a historic hotel before opening to sweeping summit views. A fire tower at the top offers an even higher vantage point across the mountains.

The Vibe: Elevated riverfront bungalow and guest cabin

Our Favorite Features: Wood-burning stove, clawfoot soaking tub, large yard, river access, and guest cabin

Riverside Cabin is a riverfront A-frame set on three private acres along a quiet bend of the Delaware River. Vaulted ceilings and riverside windows fill the space with light, while a wood-burning stove and a finished basement games room blend modern comfort with rustic charm.

Outside, the river shapes the experience: kayak from the edge, float downstream, or unwind on the deck as the current passes by, offering a retreat defined by both riverside adventure and quiet relaxation.

Photos: c/o Red Cottage

Exploring New York and Pennsylvania along the Delaware River:

• Tours and Tastings at Rock Valley Spirits: On the New York side of the Delaware River, Rock Valley Spirits offers a laid-back setting to enjoy locally made spirits, with both group and private tours and tastings available.
• A Day in Callicoon: Less than half an hour away, Callicoon is home to boutiques, bars, restaurants, and more, making it an ideal spot for a day trip. Local favorites include Seminary Hill, Lee Hartwell Antiques, Callicoon Wine Merchant, and Litt Home & Book.
• Hiking at Prompton State Park: This Pennsylvania state park features the 290-acre Prompton Lake, surrounded by more than 26 miles of trails. For a challenge, the Eastern Shore, Sidewinder, and Cliff Trail Loop provides a rewarding hike.

The Vibe: Authentic, cozy mountaintop cabin for two

Our Favorite Features: Wood-fired hot tub, outdoor shower, sauna, fireplace, and deck with mountain views

Built as a kit cabin in the 1960s, this home has been carefully curated with found and reclaimed pieces that honor its history, creating a space that feels both authentic and inviting. Inside, a fireplace anchors the living area, while two porches and oversized windows frame the surrounding forest.

The property’s outdoor amenities are designed for quiet, restorative escapes. A spacious deck extends the living area outdoors, ideal for dining al fresco or stargazing. Nearby, a wood-fired hot tub and sauna offer warmth and relaxation, while a fire pit serves as a centerpiece for evening conversations. An outdoor shower provides a refreshing way to enjoy the surrounding woods.

Photos: c/o Kit Cabin

More noteworthy experiences in the Big Indian Wilderness:

• Hiking the Slide Mountain Out-and-Back: Nestled within the 33,500-acre Big Indian Wilderness, Kit Cabin offers access to a network of trails, including the Slide Mountain Out-and-Back — a challenging hike with sweeping forested views.
• Dinner and Drinks at Urban Cowboy: Just down the road, Urban Cowboy’s on-site restaurant serves a rotating menu of reimaged comfort food in an elevated, mountainside setting.
• Skiing at Belleayre Mountain: One of the Catskills’ most notable ski mountains, Belleayre features trails suited to skiers and riders of all levels, from beginner slopes to more demanding runs.