There’s something about exploring abandoned places of the past that seems to intrigue each and every one of us New Yorkers. Whether it’s the uniqueness of the outdoor experience that’s different from the average stroll through the woods that you’re used to taking, or the fact that the nostalgia of the destination fondly pulls on your heartstrings, we all like to enjoy a day of urban exploring every once and awhile.

Taking you on a walk down memory lane, find out how you can visit the remains of one of our state’s favorite abandoned zoos – The Catskill Game Farm.

Closing in 2006 after 73 years of operating in New York, the Catskill Game Farm was left abandoned and to be overrun by nature.
The Old Game Farm - The Site of the Former Catskill Game Farm/Facebook
Thankfully in 2012, the abandoned game farm was purchased by a couple who was determined to keep the history of this old zoo alive.
Cory Seamer/Flickr
Thanks to the new owners, visitors can make reservations to explore The Old Game Farm - giving us the opportunity to pass by stands where we once purchased rolls of film, graham crackers and milk bottles for our favorite four-legged friends.
Cory Seamer/Flickr
Since the new owners have purchased The Old Game Farm they've found a unique way to keep this property alive and for future generations to enjoy the place.
The Old Game Farm - The Site of the Former Catskill Game Farm/Facebook
With over 130 structures still standing on the property today, there's still so much to see and explore here - even if there aren't any exotic animals around!
The Old Game Farm - The Site of the Former Catskill Game Farm/Facebook

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Now on the 150-acre property are two camping sites that take the average glamping experience to a whole new level.
The Old Game Farm - The Site of the Former Catskill Game Farm/Facebook
That's right! You can literally go glamping at an abandoned zoo in the Catskill Mountains.
The Old Game Farm - The Site of the Former Catskill Game Farm/Facebook
The Old Game Farm features two different camping sites, one that's tucked away in the woods near the old Big Cat Exhibit, while the other sits on a high point in the park and overlooks wide open spaces.
The Old Game Farm - The Site of the Former Catskill Game Farm/Facebook
Those who go camping here will have access to nature trails and 3.5-miles of paved walkways that still exist as well as the option to explore the rest of the zoo.
The Old Game Farm - The Site of the Former Catskill Game Farm/Facebook
And to top it all off, the former home of April the Giraffe is being transformed into an inn that's set to be open in the spring of 2019.
The Old Game Farm - The Site of the Former Catskill Game Farm/Facebook
As a New Yorker, we all know who April the Giraffe is but if you need a refresher, she's the famous giraffe that gained national attention after she experienced a pregnancy that felt like it lasted a lifetime. April the Giraffe was born at the Catskill Game Farm and lived in the old giraffe house. Preserving one of our favorite pieces of history from the zoo, the owners are in the process of making the giraffe house an inn and are expected to have an opening date sometime in the spring of 2019.

If you aren't interested in spending the night here, there are other ways for you to experience a piece of your past. The Old Game Farm also gives you the chance to participate in photography events that they hold, as well as being able to get in touch with them to make reservations to come and explore the zoo for the day. To find out more information, Spend The Night Under This Tepee At This Unique New York Getaway!

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