From the world’s biggest names to indie retreats in the woods, there are some incredible music festivals in the northeast.
Many are held in picturesque small towns among bucolic scenery, making them perfect for a camping getaway. However, even several urban hubs offer overnight RV accommodations and amenities, so don’t discount the opportunity to camp in the city.
Much more than just music, many festivals also have onsite marketplaces, delicious food options, and activities galore.
Here’s a look at seven of the most captivating northeast music festivals worth attending in 2023.
Some Kind of Jam
Kempton, PA
April 27-30, 2023
Held just west of Allentown, the family-friendly Some Kind of Jam festival hosts a range of activities, including yoga, art workshops, fire performances, spontaneous jam sessions, and more.
The lineup features a range of genres, including funk, jazz, bluegrass, folk, and reggae, with 24 acts performed on three stages. This long-running festival is entirely independent, with no corporate sponsors, lending a truly unique experience (and affordable tickets, just $130 for the entire weekend!).
Camping is a cornerstone of the experience, and there’s always plenty of space for RVs at one of the most easygoing musical festivals in the northeast.
Governor’s Ball
Queens, NY
June 9-11, 2023
“New York’s Biggest Party” delivers big acts: Lizzo, Kendrick Lamar, and Odesza are just a few of the headliners.
Celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, Governors Ball does an excellent job of blending both alternative and mainstream. Festivalgoers will have classics to sing along to, plus new acts to discover.
Moving to Flushing Meadows Corona Park for 2023, the grounds are beloved for having plenty of shade and space, plus the iconic Unisphere. Festival tickets range from $139 for a single-day pass to $319 for a General Admission weekend pass.
While camping isn’t allowed, there are some incredible RV sites at the Skyline Drive-in Movie Theater, 20 minutes away.
Northlands Musics & Arts Festival
Swanzey, NH
June 16-17, 2023
Of all the music festivals in the northeast, Northlands has one of the best camping setups, with options for tents, vehicles, families, and RVs.
Organized in a small New Hampshire town, Northlands transforms wooded greenery and sleepy farmland into a weekend packed with fun.
The lineup is all about jam bands, with jazz and bluegrass star The String Cheese Incident serving as this year’s headliner. In addition to immersive tunes, the festival features food trucks, quirky merchandise, and numerous vendors.
General admission starts at $149, and there are a variety of camping add-ons.
Rochester Jazz Festival
Rochester, NY
June 23 - July 1, 2023
One of the world’s largest jazz festivals features an astounding 300+ shows in downtown Rochester, New York. Expect world-famous musicians like Pat Metheny and Bonnie Raitt, as well as plenty of lesser-known gems.
Most performances are held in Eastman Theatre, lending to a more tranquil environment than other music festivals in the northeast.
Some shows are free, while tickets for individual headliners start at $50, and multi-day headliners can also be purchased.
While the jazz fest doesn’t have a campground, there are plenty of state parks within easy driving distance.
Bonus: Rochester is a great base for exploring Niagara Falls and other Ontario waterfalls!
The Peach Music Festival
Scranton, PA
June 29 - July 2, 2023
Set at the Montage Mountain Ski Resort near Scranton, Pennsylvania, The Peach brings a colorful lineup to a weekend of music and fun.
Started by the famed Allman brothers, this year’s acts include My Morning Jacket, Ween, and Lettuce, all lending to an upbeat atmosphere. The festival is renowned for bringing in big names and repeat festivalgoers year after year.
Unique among music festivals in the northeast, the resort’s waterpark is also part of the fun.
RV camping and glamping are available, with onsite and nearby offsite options. Four-day GA passes start at $149, with an extra $75 for camping.
Catbird Music Festival
Bethel, NY
August 19-20, 2023
Located on the historic grounds of the original Woodstock in Bethel, New York, the inaugural Catbird Music Festival promises a weekend of Americana fun.
The impressive lineup includes folk-rock and indie country crowd-pleasers like The Lumineers, Tyler Childers, and others.
In an ode to its storied location, the atmosphere is breezy and inclusive — and totally family-friendly. Weekend passes start at $199, with single-day passes priced at $140.
The camping area is well-designed, with car sites, RV hookups, and even glamping options.
Fresh Grass Festival
North Adams, MA
September 22-24, 2023
Held in a converted 19th-century factory surrounded by rolling mountains, Fresh Grass is one of the more unique music festivals in the northeast.
The northwest Massachusetts event is centered around roots music, which includes bluegrass, folk, and traditional country. The relaxed environment encourages patrons of all ages, and there’s a heavy music education component, with workshops and pop-up shows.
There’s also a museum nearby, with several galleries to explore between sets.
Onsite camping is available, as well as numerous backup options a short drive away. 3-day passes are just $164.
Cruise Into Festival Season
With many music festivals in the northeast and throughout the country offering camping options, one of the best ways to enjoy the festival season is renting a Cruise America RV. There are nearly 120 convenient pickup locations, including several throughout the northeast. Just buy your tickets, choose an RV model, and hit the road!