A restorative weekend campout in our favorite old-growth forest 

We consider this destination to be a sacred place: a stretch of virgin, old-growth forest wilderness dotted with beaver ponds and brambles and flush with blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries. The lush meadows are cut by streams filled with trout to form a true paradise. Not marked on any maps or trail guides, we’ve kept the location of the Secret Land of Trout and Berries a closely guarded secret, and though not too difficult to reach, it has remained unspoiled.

On this very mellow backpacking trip, we'll hike into our camping destination before settling in for a long weekend filled with berry picking, swimming, fishing, and celebrating the Summer Solstice. With a moderate hike in, this is a great first camping or backpacking trip for anyone interested in spending their first night in the woods.

Trip stats

🥾Approx. 5-6 mile hike to basecamp
⛰️ No elevation gain to basecamp
🧭 Difficulty: Moderate. We will be hiking on-trail and off-trail to reach out camping destination. 

The Destination Backcountry Difference 

Why hike with us? Expert guides. Founded in 2011, our NY State-licensed guides are not merely hike leaders, they are ambassadors for the outdoors, dedicated to sharing their passion for nature with others. 

A FULL weekend of adventure: Our all-inclusive day escapes include transportation, meals, and a full weekend of adventure. Make your escape upstate worth every minute!

On this trip, our guides will share:

✨ One-of-a-kind destination: experience a night camping in a magical Catskills forest like no other
🦉 Forest interpretation and signs of wildlife like owls, deer, efts, and more
🔥 An incredible camping experience: redefine your idea of cozy camping and imagine a roaring campfire, a gourmet meal shared with your fellow adventurers, and a peaceful night sleep with a warm cup of coffee waiting for you in the morning.
 🎣 Fishing available
🩱Swimming available
🍃 This incredible forest is perfect for mindfulness activities like meditation, journaling, and more

What's Included?

🚐 Transportation to and from NYC
☕ Breakfast: Your adventure includes a breakfast of fresh fruit and donuts and a selection of coffee and tea for the drive to the trailhead
🧀 Lunch + Dinner + Breakfast in the Woods: We will provide a healthy, gourmet lunch and snacks during our adventure. We offer vegetarian and vegan options, and we’re happy to accommodate any dietary and allergy needs.
🌄 On trail guidance from an expert NYS licensed guide

Schedule

Day One

Between noon-3pm TBD Brooklyn Pickup near Barclays
12:30-3:30pm TBD Manhattan Pickup at Grand Central
Rest Stop
Arrival at Trailhead + Hike to Camp + Camp Setup
Campfire + Dinner + Smore's + Stargazing until Bedtime

Day Two

8:00-10:00 Breakfast + Coffee 
10:00-2:30 Optional Hike + Lunch During Hike
~2:30-5:00 Camptime
~6:00 Campfire + Dinner + Smore's + Stargazing until Bedtime

Day Three

8:00-10:00 Breakfast + Coffee + Break Camp
10:00-12:00 Camptime
12:00 Light Lunch + Hike to Van
~2:00-3:00 Arrival at trailhead + van heads back to NYC
~4:30 Rest stop
~7:00 Manhattan Drop Off
~7:30 Brooklyn Drop Off

*All times are estimates. We adjust every adventure to the pace and needs of the group. Our overnight trips are much more flexibile! Travel time are subject to many factors, including weather and traffic. 

What Do I Need to Bring With Me?

Must have
🎒 Backpack (45L minimum, with hip belt
💤 Sleeping bag
🛏️ Sleeping pad
🍽️ Mess kit (fork, spoon, bowl and cup)
💧 2, 1-liter water bottles
🔦 Headlamp
🎽 Wear: Comfortable, breathable clothes. Standard workout clothes are great for hiking
🥾 Footwear: sneakers or boots are perfect for this trip
🧣 Clothes: extra layers, top and bottom, 3 pairs of socks
🌧️ Rain shell
⛺ Tent: We have a limited number of tents available to borrow. Please let us know if you would like to borrow a tent. There is also the option to sleep under a tarp shelter, which your guide can help build, or to sleep under the stars if conditions permit. If you are NOT planning on bringing a tent, please let us know your preferences from above.

Good to have:

🩴 Camp shoes 
🕶️ Sunglasses
🧢 Hat

FAQs

What happens after I book my adventure? You will receive a confirmation email for your adventure within 24 hours of booking. Your guide will reach out 7-10 days before your adventure with an update on trail conditions, weather, a final packing list, our adventure waiver, and more.

More questions? Visit our FAQ page here.