From retro motor lodges to sprawling resorts, the Catskills are packed with places to rest your head. Here are five stays that each bring something different to the table.
The Catskills Lodging Scene in 2026
The Catskills have long been a getaway for New Yorkers, but the last few years have seen a renaissance in lodging options. You've got your classic motor lodges, boutique hotels, and full-service resorts, all vying for your attention. Whether you're after a quiet fishing trip or a weekend of hiking and good food, there's a place that fits. The region's appeal is its mix of nostalgia and modern comfort, and these five spots capture that balance in their own ways.
How We Evaluated These Stays
We looked at each property through the same lens: the range of services offered, how clearly they communicate pricing and amenities, and how well they fit into the local Catskills vibe. We also considered the overall guest experience, from the moment you arrive to the little touches that make a stay memorable. Each property stood out for different reasons—some for their authentic retro charm, others for their modern amenities or unique settings.
Here's a quick look at the five stays we're highlighting, from the Walton Motel's family-run warmth to Camptown's log cabins and restaurant.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Camptown | Travelers wanting a mix of cabins, hotel rooms, and a standout restaurant. |
| Home | Walton Motel | Travelers seeking an authentic, family-run motor lodge with easy access to fishing and local fairs. |
| The Starlite Motel | Design-conscious travelers who appreciate a restored mid-century aesthetic. |
| Urban Cowboy Lodge & Resort | Couples and groups wanting a resort experience with unique rooms and plenty of activities. |
| Callicoon Hills | Travelers looking for a relaxed, retro-inspired resort with a friendly, casual atmosphere. |
The Five Stays, Up Close
#1 Camptown
A screenshot of the Camptown website.
Camptown is a 50-room hotel at the foot of the Catskills, just over the Rip Van Winkle Bridge. You can choose from 26 log cabins or 24 hotel rooms, so whether you want to hide away or explore, it works. The on-site restaurant, Casa Susanna, serves Jaliscan flavors with local produce, which is a big draw. It's a solid pick if you want a mix of outdoor adventure and good food without going far. The property's size means there's plenty of space to spread out, but it still feels intimate. If you're planning a party or off-site, they've got you covered there too.
#2 Home | Walton Motel
A screenshot of the Home | Walton Motel website.
The Walton Motel is a family-owned motor lodge right on the edge of the Catskills, and it's all about that retro look with a fresh, modern feel. You can literally drive your car right up to your room, which is a throwback to classic road trips. It's a four-season spot, so whether you're into trout fishing, deer hunting, or just breathing in mountain air, there's a time for you. The rooms have been refurbished with a mid-century modern style that feels both nostalgic and clean. It's a no-frills kind of place that focuses on comfort and location, making it a great base for exploring Walton and the Delaware County Fair. If you want a genuine, family-run experience without the pretension, this is it.
#3 The Starlite Motel
A screenshot of the The Starlite Motel website.
The Starlite Motel in Kerhonkson is a beautifully restored mid-century gem, with a pink and aqua exterior that's straight out of the 1960s. The owners come from New York's art and design worlds, so the rooms are lighter and more polished than you'd expect from a retro motel. You get hardwood floors and tiled bathrooms, which add a touch of luxury. It's a smaller property with 17 rooms, so it feels exclusive and quiet. The giant MOTEL sign on the roof is a nice nod to the past, and the whole place has a curated vibe. If you're into design and want a stylish, retro stay, this is a top pick.
#4 Urban Cowboy Lodge & Resort
A screenshot of the Urban Cowboy Lodge & Resort website.
Urban Cowboy Lodge & Resort is a 200-acre property in the heart of the Catskills, with a river running right through it. It's built in a historic 1898 building, but the vibe is all about modern freedom and relaxation. You've got indoor and outdoor soaking tubs, an Estonian sauna, a pool, and even a creekside swimming hole. There are 42 rooms spread across 13 buildings, each uniquely designed, so no two stays are the same. The on-site dining options range from a chef-driven restaurant to a bar with wood-fired pizza and craft beer. It's a place where you can do as much or as little as you want, making it perfect for a romantic escape or a fun group trip.
#5 Callicoon Hills
A screenshot of the Callicoon Hills website.
Callicoon Hills is a warm, friendly resort that started as a boarding house in 1905 and evolved into a vacation spot in the 1940s. It has that 'Dirty Dancing' vibe, but more relaxed and casual. The rooms are spread across three buildings—the Boarding House, the Pool House, and the Ridge Rooms—each with its own character. The design is thoughtful and warm, like a modern take on an old mountain lodge with a hipster twist. You set your own pace here, whether that's lounging by the pool or exploring the surrounding area. It's a great choice if you want a laid-back, personable stay that feels like a step back in time but with all the modern comforts.
How to Pick Your Catskills Stay
First, think about what kind of trip you want. Are you after a quiet fishing retreat, a base for hiking, or a full-on resort experience? The Walton Motel is great for anglers and those who want a simple, authentic stay. If you're into design and a curated aesthetic, the Starlite Motel or Urban Cowboy might be more your speed. For a mix of cabins and a restaurant, Camptown is a solid bet. And if you want that classic Catskills resort feel with a modern twist, Callicoon Hills delivers. Consider your budget, the amenities that matter to you, and how much time you'll spend at the property versus exploring the area.
Streamlining Your Booking Process
Once you've narrowed down your options, use online booking platforms to compare rates and availability. Set up price alerts for your preferred dates to catch any drops. For the Walton Motel, you can call directly at (607) 441-6156 or email thewaltonmotel@gmail.com to check availability and ask about local fishing conditions. For the others, their websites have booking engines that let you see real-time availability. Consider using a travel agent or a service like TripAdvisor to read recent reviews and get a sense of the guest experience. Automating your search with alerts can save you time and money.
The Takeaway
Each of these five stays offers a different slice of the Catskills experience. Whether you're drawn to the family-run charm of the Walton Motel, the retro design of the Starlite, or the resort amenities of Urban Cowboy, there's something here for every kind of traveler. The key is to match the property to your travel style and needs. So, take your pick, pack your bags, and get ready to enjoy the mountains.