Discover the Magic of Upstate New York Castles

When you think of castles, Europe comes to mind more than the United States. But Upstate New York is home to turreted castles and an old-world charm that rivals its European counterparts. From lakeside fortresses to Gilded Age estates, the region is filled with stunning architecture and stories straight out of a fairy tale. So load up your RV and get ready for an adventure as you explore the Empire State’s most enchanting destinations.

Five Must-See Upstate New York Castles

1. Boldt Castle (Alexandria Bay)

Your fairytale adventure begins at Boldt Castle in the Thousand Islands region of Upstate New York. George C. Boldt, millionaire proprietor of New York City’s world-famous Waldorf Astoria Hotel, built the castle in the early 1900s as a tribute to his wife. Sitting proudly on Heart Island, the grand estate features turrets, secret passageways, and lush gardens. Though construction was halted after Boldt’s wife died unexpectedly in 1904, the castle has since been lovingly restored and is now open for tours. To access the castle, you’ll need to take a short ferry ride from Alexandria Bay, but RV parking is easy to find near the harbor.

Consider extending your stay by camping nearby at Wellesley Island State Park. The largest camping complex in the region, you can enjoy hiking, fishing, and views of the St. Lawrence River.

2. Singer Castle (Dark Island)

Another gem of the Thousand Islands, Singer Castle was built by Frederick Gilbert Bourne, president of the Singer Sewing Machine Company. This fully furnished medieval-style mansion features secret passageways and towers overlooking the water. It’s also one of the few castles in Upstate New York where guests can book an overnight stay – perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of mystery to their road trip.

3. Bannerman Castle (Beacon)

From the Thousand Islands, head south toward the Hudson Valley. There you’ll find the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Bannerman Castle on Pollepel Island. This Upstate New York castle was built in 1901 by Scottish immigrant Francis Bannerman VI to store military surplus, and now serves as a dramatic reminder of New York’s industrial past. The castle is accessible by guided tour or kayak and offers incredible photo opportunities – especially during sunset when the crumbling turrets reflect off the Hudson River.

For a stress-free day trip to explore Bannerman Castle, stay at nearby Malouf’s Mountain Sunset Campground. It offers RV sites and easy access to the Metro-North line into Beacon.

4. Lyndhurst Mansion (Tarrytown)

Continue your castle quest just north of New York City at Lyndhurst Mansion. This Gothic Revival masterpiece on the banks of the Hudson River was once home to railroad tycoon Jay Gould. The estate features lush gardens, ornate interiors, and sweeping river views. Although it’s not a castle in the traditional sense, its pointed arches and towers give it all the regal flair you could ask for.

Many campgrounds in Tarrytown offer full hookups and easy access to Upstate New York’s historic Hudson Valley. It’s the perfect stop to restock and recharge before heading north again.

5. Belhurst Castle (Geneva)

Cap off your journey at Belhurst Castle in Upstate New York’s Finger Lakes region. This Romanesque Revival beauty was built in the 1880s on Seneca Lake and now operates as a luxury hotel, winery, and restaurant. Enjoy a glass of local Riesling on the veranda, savor a lakeside dinner, and soak in the grandeur of this Gilded Age treasure.

Get Ready to Roll with DuraFalp

Whether you’re chasing history, architecture, or pure scenic beauty, an RV road trip to explore Upstate New York castles is nothing short of magical. From the gravel parking lots of Alexandria Bay to the winding roads of the Hudson Valley, your RV or tow rig can kick up plenty of debris along the way. DuraFlap mud flaps help keep that grit where it belongs – on the road behind you.

At DuraFlap, our high-quality mud flaps are designed to offer your rig the most protection from dents and dings on the road. From size to artwork, each pair is custom-built to your specifications right here in the USA. Visit our website to learn more about keeping your investment protected every mile of the way.