The Catskill Mountains near Arkville sit at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 4,180 feet, creating microclimates that influence camping conditions throughout the year. Spring runoff often leaves trails muddy until late May, while fall temperatures can drop below freezing as early as September. Most campers report limited to non-existent cell service in valleys between the peaks where many of the best places to camp near Arkville, New York are located.
What to do
Fishing the Esopus Creek: Multiple campgrounds provide access to the creek known for its brown and rainbow trout. At Little Pond Campground, fishing opportunities extend beyond the namesake pond. One camper notes, "Nice quiet campgrounds close to the Beaver kill and great service staff was supper friendly and helpful."
Hiking Giant Ledge: The trail from Giant Ledge Primitive Camp features challenging rock scrambles leading to multiple panoramic viewpoints. A hiker reports, "It take the average hiker about an hour ish to get to camp/ledge view. This one is one of my favs."
Kayaking and canoeing: Rentals available at several area lakes, often at reasonable rates. At Little Pond, one visitor mentioned, "There is a pond and there's kayaks, canoes, etc for rent. The beach area is clean and the water is clear."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Walk-in tent sites at the water's edge consistently earn top ratings. A camper at Woodland Valley Campground explains, "If you like to camp by water, this is the perfect place for you. It has amazing on the water sites you can camp at, plus a stunning view of the Catskills."
Mountain creek sounds: Natural white noise helps create a peaceful sleeping environment. "The mountain creek is like nature singing a lullaby - sleeping next to it was very relaxing," writes a Woodland Valley camper.
Secluded walk-in sites: Though requiring more effort, these sites offer greater privacy. At Alder Lake, a visitor recommends, "There are several beautiful, secluded hike-in sites along the lake which I would love to return to someday."
What you should know
Bear activity: Black bears are common throughout the region. At Phoenicia Black Bear Campground, the name isn't just for show—one camper reported, "In the morning we woke up to a baby bear walking on our campsite. We kept our distance but that was definitely a thrill."
Road access challenges: Several campgrounds require navigating rough roads. For Alder Lake, a camper advises, "Was not the easiest for my RV van to get up the hill with the ruts, but I have a small lift so it helps, lower clearance vans might not make it."
Bathroom maintenance issues: Facility quality varies widely between campgrounds and often fluctuates during peak season. One visitor to Little Pond reported, "Our first two days there 3/4 of the bathroom stalls were completely clogged and disgusting."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds feature lake swimming with varying amenities. At Kenneth L Wilson Campground, "They have a lake on site with swimming. We happened to spend the weekend on a day with free canoe/kayak rentals which was great!"
Firewood availability: Not all campgrounds sell firewood on-site. A camper at Woodland Valley shares, "There was no fire wood available at the campsite so buy before you come (available in Phoenicia and Woodstock, both close)."
Site spacing considerations: Privacy between sites varies significantly. For Little Pond, one camper notes, "It's a nice campground and perfect for single/family camping. I would not choose this location if I were taking a group of people. The sites are on the smaller side and many have slanted entrances."
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds offer few or no utility connections. At Allaben Campground, RVers can use free primitive sites, with one noting, "A great free spot for dispersed camping tucked right off the road. Had a fire pit and picnic table."
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling blocks. At Little Pond, a visitor mentions, "The site we had was right on the water. The sites are clean and decent size. Very peaceful at night."
Dump station locations: Several campgrounds lack sanitary dumps. Kenneth Wilson Campground provides this amenity, with a camper noting, "When I came I was really impressed with the improvements they made here. They constructed a really nice fishing pier. The sites were well taken of by other campers and almost look brand new."
Traveler
