Some weekends you want to see and do everything. This wasn’t one of them. I went to AutoCamp Catskills in the winter with my two small dogs, and what I wanted was quiet, a fire, and no plans. That’s exactly what I got. If you’re looking for a comfortable way to disconnect less than two hours from NJ or NYC, especially with a dog in tow, this is the place I’d point you to.
What it’s actually like
AutoCamp is a modern take on camping: Airstreams, cabins, and a few other unit types set out in the woods, with a central lodge that ties it all together. Our unit was comfortable and clean, which matters more than you’d think when you’re sharing the space with two dogs.
But the main lodge is what I’d come back for. It’s cozy, with a fire going, a happy hour, food and drinks, and snacks, so you don’t have to leave the property for everything. In winter especially, it’s the kind of room you settle into with a drink and don’t feel like leaving.
The fire pit is the whole point
Every unit comes with its own outdoor fire pit with a grate for cooking, and the lodge sells firewood. We grilled dinner, built a bonfire, and just zoned out, which is honestly the best thing you can do here. It’s quiet enough that you actually notice the quiet.
This would be just as fun with a group of friends or family. They have bigger cabins for larger groups, and I can easily picture a few couples splitting a weekend here with everyone around one fire.
Bringing dogs: what to know
AutoCamp is fully dog-friendly, and it’s one of the easiest dog trips I’ve done. A few things to know before you book:
It’s two dogs max, with a pet fee per stay ($75 when I checked). With two, we were right at the limit. Not every unit is dog-friendly, and you’re supposed to call the property ahead for approval, so don’t just book any unit and show up with your dogs.
My biggest tip: book a bigger unit or a cabin. Dogs plus luggage plus the two of you gets tight fast, and the extra room makes the whole weekend more relaxing.
Dogs need to stay on a leash (6 feet max) and can’t be left alone in your unit. That’s worth planning around if you want a nice dinner out, so think about takeout, eating at the lodge, or finding a dog-friendly patio.
There are also trails nearby, so you can take the dogs on a proper walk instead of just laps around the campsite.
Woodstock and where to eat
AutoCamp is in Saugerties, a short drive from Woodstock, which is a cute small village that’s great for walking around, browsing shops, and eating out. It’s the perfect half-day outing when you want a break from the fire pit.
Here’s my list for the area: Shelter Woodstock, SILVIA, Pearl Moon, Yum Yum Noodle Bar, Oriole 9, Medo, Cucina, Olsen & Company, Main Street Restaurant, and Miss Lucy’s Kitchen.
Who it’s for
AutoCamp is for anyone who wants a comfortable, low-effort reset: couples, friend groups, families, and especially dog owners who are tired of hotels that only technically allow pets. If you want a packed itinerary, this isn’t it. But if the idea of a fire, a drink, and nothing on the schedule sounds perfect, book it.