Artistic dove sculpture titled 'Happy Days Campground Dove,' featuring bright colors and a tribute to the Woodstock festival. The design reflects the historic and cultural significance of Woodstock and its connection to the campground in Bethel, NY

60. Happy Days Campground

Town: Bethel

Artist: Kim Simons

About: The Happy Days Campground Dove, located in Bethel, New York, is a cheerful symbol of the community and the outdoor spirit that defines the area. Part of the Dove Trail, this dove was created by a local artist to capture the welcoming and fun atmosphere of Happy Days Campground. Positioned at the campground, the dove celebrates the joy of camping and the natural beauty of Bethel, making it a perfect addition to this popular destination.

Address: 454 Horshoe Lake Road
Bethel, NY 12783

Directions
Close-up of the 'Happy Days Campground Dove,' showcasing vibrant artwork with themes of music and camping, symbolizing the fun and adventurous spirit of Happy Days Campground in Bethel, NY.

Location: Happy Days Campground

Happy Days Campground, situated in the scenic town of Bethel, New York, is a beloved destination for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of the Catskills, this family-friendly campground offers a serene environment where visitors can reconnect with nature and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. With spacious campsites, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere, Happy Days Campground has become a favorite spot for both locals and visitors looking to experience the beauty of Bethel.

The campground is known for its relaxed vibe and commitment to providing a fun and enjoyable experience for all its guests. Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking an RV, Happy Days Campground offers the perfect setting for making lasting memories with family and friends. The surrounding area provides plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring, making it an ideal base for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural wonders of the Catskills.

The Happy Days Campground Dove is a charming addition to this outdoor haven. As part of the Dove Trail, the dove was designed by a local artist to reflect the joyful and carefree spirit of the campground. It stands as a symbol of the community’s love for the outdoors and its commitment to preserving the natural beauty that makes Bethel such a special place. The dove adds an artistic touch to the campground, enhancing its appeal and serving as a reminder of the importance of nature and recreation in the lives of those who visit.

For more information about Happy Days Campground and its offerings, you can visit their official website here.

Artist: Kim Simons

Kim Simons is an artist, a multi-award winning, master level, cake and food artist. Kim has recently been featured on the Food Network’s, “Cake Wars: Christmas”, “Cake Wars”, “Duff Till Dawn”, “Outrageous Wedding Cakes” and “Sugar Dome”. Kim also has appeared on Telemundo’s, “Buenos Dias Nueva York”, where she presented one of her fabulous cakes to a live television audience to celebrate their first show, also performing and demoing live, creating huge food art pieces in Busch Gardens VA, Seaworld TX, Ohio, Tennessee and NY City. Kim, has been recognized in “Dessert Professional” magazine as one of the Top Ten Cake Artists in North America for 2013. Her cakes have also been featured in the “ICES” magazine, “Cake Masters” magazine, the “American Cake Decorating” magazine, “Today’s Woman” magazine, and “Cake Design France” magazine. Kim is not a traditional cake artist. She enjoys creating sculpturally unique and beautiful cakes, mastery of painting with edible colors, and the ability to sculpt incredibly realistic nature scenes. Kim has a reputation for creating amazingly realistic looking animals out of sugar and has earned the respect of her peers. In addition to her work in cakes and food, Kim has an extensive following in the painting and sculpturing worlds. She has commissioned works for the private, public and government sectors over the years. The public can also see her work in the War Memorial located in Monticello, NY and her Centennial Monument created exclusively for the town of Liberty, NY. It can be seen outside the Liberty Public Library.

DOVE INSPIRATION: After frequent discussions in person with Kevin McElroy, chef and owner, and over the phone, sketches & throughout the creation process, the dove design unfolded. Kevin requested particular elements to be included in the dove design that was to be mounted on the roof of the venue, of which one side would be visible. He wanted: a Grateful Dead Skull, a world image, a VW Bus with his family caricatured & prominently displayed venue name and tree logo. Debbie wanted to give him creative versions of the requests without infringing on copyright issues along with maintaining continuity and properly representing the Spirit of Woodstock. This was accomplished by incorporating images within images and carrying the tree logo branches in a swirly flow as a background from head to tail, adding some golden leaves here and there commemorating the 50th Anniversary.

Places to Eat

  • Yasgur’s Farm Café – A cozy café offering organic, farm-to-table dishes with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
  • The Fat Lady Café – A lakeside favorite offering a diverse menu of American and international dishes, with stunning views of White Lake and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • The Local Table and Tap – A popular gastropub known for its American comfort food made with local ingredients, complemented by a great selection of craft beers.
  • Benji & Jake’s – A wood-fired pizza restaurant offering artisan pizzas, fresh salads, and Italian-inspired dishes, with outdoor seating that overlooks the scenic White Lake.

Places to Stay

  • The Dancing Cat Saloon & Inn – A unique inn and music venue offering rustic accommodations with a lively and fun atmosphere, perfect for those looking to experience local culture.
  • Inn at Lake Joseph – A luxurious inn located nearby, offering elegant rooms, access to a private lake, and a peaceful natural setting, ideal for a relaxing retreat.
  • The Bethel Woods Center for the Arts – While not a traditional accommodation, the center sometimes offers camping during major events, allowing visitors to stay close to the action.
  • The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark – Located in Monticello, this family-friendly resort offers modern accommodations and a large indoor waterpark for an exciting stay.

Places to Explore

  • Bethel Woods Center for the Arts – A premier cultural venue offering concerts, art exhibits, and a museum dedicated to the history of the 1969 Woodstock festival, located on the original Woodstock site.
  • White Lake – A popular spot for boating, fishing, and water sports, surrounded by charming restaurants and shops, making it a key attraction in the area.
  • Lake Superior State Park – A nearby state park offering a beach, picnic areas, and hiking trails, perfect for family outings and outdoor recreation.
  • Mongaup Valley Wildlife Management Area – A beautiful natural area offering hiking, bird watching, and opportunities to observe wildlife, ideal for nature enthusiasts exploring the Catskills.

Dove photos by Paul Henshaw