“Cryptid: A creature that is found in stories and that some people believe exists or say they have seen, but that has never been proven to exist: Bigfoot or Sasquatch is a large, hairy, human-like cryptid particularly associated with the Pacific Northwest of North America.”
-The Cambridge English Dictionary
Are you familiar with the Jersey Devil? The Catskills Devil? Mothman?
The Catskills, a region steeped in mystery and folklore, is home to a variety of cryptids that have captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most intriguing cryptids associated with the Catskills:
Champ: While not exclusive to the Catskills, Champ is a legendary lake monster said to inhabit Lake Champlain, which borders the Catskills. This creature is often compared to the Loch Ness Monster and has been a subject of fascination and speculation for many years1.
Bigfoot: Known as Sasquatch in other regions, Bigfoot sightings have been reported in the dense forests of the Catskills. This elusive creature is described as a large, ape-like being and remains one of the most famous cryptids in North America1.
The White Lady: A ghostly apparition said to haunt the area, the White Lady legend tells of a woman who lost her daughter and continues to search for her along the shores of Lake Ontario. While not directly tied to the Catskills, similar tales are common in the region’s ghost stories1.
Georgie: Another lake monster rumored to exist in Upstate New York, Georgie is said to dwell in Lake George. Although it has been admitted as a hoax, it adds to the rich tapestry of cryptid lore in the area1.
These cryptids are part of a larger collection of myths and legends that contribute to the enigmatic allure of the Catskills. Whether they are real or simply figments of imagination, they continue to inspire curiosity and wonder among those who hear their tales.
There are so many cryptids, and Blackthorne’s vast acreage and beautiful woods just might be the home of one or more of them!
Come hear about various cryptids, local, national, and historic!