If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Southern New York offers some hidden gems that provide the perfect retreat. Over the years, I’ve explored many quiet corners of this region, and I’ve fallen in love with its tranquil towns nestled in nature.
From woodland retreats to riverside villages, these secluded spots offer serenity and a close connection to the great outdoors. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful weekend getaway or considering a move to a quieter locale, these ten towns are worth exploring.
10. Glen Spey: A Woodland Retreat
Glen Spey is a small hamlet with a population of just over 1,500, and it’s truly one of my favorite woodland escapes in Southern New York. Located in the town of Lumberland, this area is enveloped by dense forests and undisturbed land, offering residents spacious properties that are few and far between.
I love hiking through the expansive forest trails here and enjoying the peaceful environment that’s far removed from city life. The main industries are minimal, focusing mostly on local services and small businesses, which adds to the secluded charm.
What makes Glen Spey so secluded is its vast stretches of woodland and the absence of commercial development, allowing nature to take the lead.
Where is Glen Spey?
Nestled in Sullivan County, Glen Spey sits close to the Delaware River, right on the border between New York and Pennsylvania. Its location is quite remote, with miles of forested terrain surrounding it, making it a peaceful haven away from bustling towns.
Getting there involves traversing winding country roads, which are beautiful but not heavily trafficked, enhancing the sense of seclusion. Personally, I find that the journey to Glen Spey is part of its charm, as the scenic drive through the woodland sets the tone for a relaxing retreat.
9. Eldred: Seclusion Near Highland Lakes
Eldred is a quaint hamlet with a population hovering around 800, offering a secluded lifestyle that I find truly refreshing. It’s surrounded by extensive woodland areas and dotted with beautiful lakes like Highland Lake, which is perfect for fishing and kayaking.
When I’m in Eldred, I enjoy the outdoor activities the area offers, such as hiking and exploring the local wildlife. The town’s economy is modest, with small businesses and local artisans contributing to its charm.
Large lot sizes averaging over an acre provide residents with plenty of space and privacy, and the lack of commercial and high-traffic regions makes Eldred a perfect escape from urban noise.
Where is Eldred?
Situated in the southwestern part of Sullivan County, Eldred is tucked away near the Pennsylvania border. This location contributes to its seclusion, as it’s nestled between forests and lakes, far from major highways.
Accessing Eldred typically involves taking country roads that weave through the scenic landscape, which is a journey I always look forward to. The town’s distance from larger urban centers means fewer visitors and a tight-knit community where everyone appreciates the tranquility of their surroundings.
8. Fremont Center: Embraced by Nature’s Silence
With a population of just about 300, Fremont Center is one of those places where I feel completely at peace. This hamlet is characterized by vast open spaces and a low resident count, surrounded by rolling hills and lush meadows.
There’s not much in terms of industry here, which is exactly part of its appeal—the quiet is almost tangible. I often spend time here just enjoying the silence, interrupted only by the sounds of nature.
The expansive natural landscapes offer a private haven for those who, like me, appreciate a life removed from the hustle and bustle.
Where is Fremont Center?
Located in Sullivan County, Fremont Center lies north of the Delaware River, not far from the Catskill Mountains. Its remote location is accentuated by the surrounding farmland and forests, making it feel worlds away from city life.
Getting there means navigating through country roads that wind through picturesque scenery. I find that the journey adds to the sense of adventure, leading me to a place where nature’s silence is all-encompassing and deeply restorative.
7. Cochecton Center: Tranquility in the Countryside
Cochecton Center, with its population of around 150, is a tiny hamlet that offers profound tranquility in the countryside. The large properties here are surrounded by natural barriers like forests and hills, providing a sense of seclusion that I thoroughly enjoy.
There aren’t any major industries, just small family-run farms and local businesses that give the area its rustic charm. One of my favorite activities is exploring the rural roads by bike, taking in the peaceful scenery.
The town is miles away from major towns and highways, which means it’s rarely frequented by tourists, preserving its serene atmosphere.
Where is Cochecton Center?
Sitting in western Sullivan County, Cochecton Center is nestled close to the Pennsylvania border, in a region characterized by rolling hills and agricultural land. Its out-of-the-way location enhances its seclusion, as it’s not on the path to any major destinations.
Reaching Cochecton Center involves a leisurely drive through scenic countryside, which I always find to be part of its allure. The town’s isolation provides a quiet retreat where one can disconnect from the fast pace of modern life.
6. Parksville: Quiet Living Off the Main Trail
Parksville is a small hamlet with a population of approximately 700, and it offers quiet living that feels a world away from urban centers. The low housing density and substantial undeveloped land contribute to a peaceful setting that I find incredibly relaxing.
There are few industries here, primarily small local businesses and a touch of tourism owing to its proximity to the Catskills. One of the hidden gems in Parksville is the Parksville Rail Trail, a scenic path perfect for walking and cycling.
The absence of commercial districts and its location off the main trails make Parksville a haven for those seeking serenity.
Where is Parksville?
Parksville is located in Liberty, Sullivan County, nestled amidst the Catskill Mountains. It’s situated just off Route 17, but despite this proximity, it maintains a quiet ambiance because it’s bypassed by the newer highway sections.
To get there, I often take the old roads that lead directly into the village, offering glimpses of the area’s charming landscapes. Parksville’s removal from urban bustle and its hidden positioning among the hills give it a secluded feel that’s hard to find elsewhere.
5. Hortonville: A Peaceful Riverside Village
Hortonville is a quaint village with a population of around 200, located along the Delaware River. It’s one of those places where I can sit by the riverside for hours, enjoying the tranquility.
The minimal population and expansive lot sizes contribute to a secluded environment away from tourist paths. The main industries are limited, with some local agriculture and small businesses.
Activities here revolve around nature—fishing, canoeing, and riverside walks are some of my favorite pastimes in Hortonville. Its peaceful riverside setting makes it an ideal spot for those yearning for a quiet escape.
Where is Hortonville?
Situated in the town of Delaware, Sullivan County, Hortonville rests on the northern bank of the Delaware River. Its location along the river adds to its charm but also to its seclusion, as it’s not on any major travel routes.
Accessing Hortonville involves taking local roads that meander through the countryside, which I always find to be a serene journey. The village’s distance from bustling towns and the enveloping natural landscape enhance its secluded atmosphere, making it a true riverside retreat.
4. DeBruce: Hidden Amongst the Hills
DeBruce is a small hamlet with a population of fewer than 100 people, which to me feels like a hidden treasure tucked away in the hills. Surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, it offers residents large acreages and a lifestyle removed from high-traffic areas.
The primary industry here is centered around outdoor recreation and tourism, thanks to the renowned fly-fishing opportunities on the Willowemoc Creek. I’ve always enjoyed the tranquility and the opportunity to reconnect with nature here.
DeBruce’s lack of commercial zones and limited development keeps it truly secluded.
Where is DeBruce?
Located within the town of Rockland in Sullivan County, DeBruce sits near the heart of the Catskill Park. Its hidden location amongst the hills and forests means it’s off the beaten path, contributing to its peacefulness.
To reach DeBruce, I typically take winding mountain roads that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The area’s seclusion is further enhanced by the natural barriers, making it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude in nature.
3. Lew Beach: Escape to Untouched Wilderness
Lew Beach is a tiny hamlet with a population of roughly 200 people, and it’s one of my go-to spots when I crave untouched wilderness.
The area boasts vast undeveloped lands and expansive forested areas, ensuring privacy and a close connection to nature for its residents. There isn’t much in terms of industry, aside from some local lodging and outdoor recreation services catering to anglers and hikers.
I particularly love fishing in the Beaver Kill River, which flows nearby and is famous among fly-fishing enthusiasts. The sizable lots and the surrounding wilderness make Lew Beach a perfect secluded retreat.
Where is Lew Beach?
Nestled in the town of Rockland in Sullivan County, Lew Beach is located near the western edge of the Catskill Mountains. Its remote setting, away from major highways and towns, contributes to its sense of isolation.
Getting there involves a scenic drive through mountain roads, which I always find to be a peaceful start to my visit. The hamlet’s location amidst vast wilderness areas ensures that it remains a quiet haven, ideal for those seeking to escape into nature.
2. Willowemoc: Serenity Along the Creek
Willowemoc is a small community with an estimated population of 150, offering serenity along the Willowemoc Creek. I find this area incredibly peaceful, with sprawling landscapes and low housing density that make it feel miles away from anywhere.
The main attraction here is the creek itself, renowned for its excellent fly-fishing opportunities. There are few industries, with local inns and guide services supporting the outdoor activities.
The town’s location along the tranquil creek and far from bustling urban centers provides a secluded environment that’s perfect for nature lovers like me.
Where is Willowemoc?
Situated in Sullivan County, Willowemoc lies east of Lew Beach and is nestled within the Catskill Park. Its seclusion is due to the enveloping forests and the lack of major roads passing through the area.
To reach Willowemoc, I often drive through scenic routes that hug the creek, offering picturesque views at every turn. The small community’s remote location ensures that it remains a tranquil spot, ideal for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of nature.
1. Claryville: A Remote Haven in the Catskills
Claryville, with a population of approximately 400, is a remote haven deep in the Catskill Mountains. This is one of the most secluded places I’ve found in Southern New York, with large acre properties and natural surroundings that provide a serene and private living experience.
The main industries are limited to outdoor recreation, with camps and retreats taking advantage of the area’s natural beauty. I enjoy hiking the nearby trails, including those in the Slide Mountain Wilderness, and visiting the Claryville Pottery studio, a hidden gem showcasing local artistry.
What makes Claryville truly secluded is its sparse population and the vast stretches of untouched wilderness that surround it.
Where is Claryville?
Located at the border of Sullivan and Ulster counties, Claryville is nestled at the foot of the Catskill High Peaks. Its location deep within the Catskills contributes to its remoteness, with few roads leading into the hamlet.
Getting to Claryville often involves navigating through winding mountain roads that are both challenging and breathtaking. The town’s distance from major highways and urban centers enhances its seclusion. For me, the journey is rewarded by the peace and natural beauty that Claryville offers, making it a truly remote haven.
