Camping opportunities near Arkville, New York span across the western Catskills at elevations between 1,300-3,500 feet. The area receives approximately 45 inches of annual rainfall and features diverse forest terrain with hemlock groves, maple stands, and mountain streams. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer evenings typically cool to 50-60°F even after warm days.
What to do
Fishing access points: Roscoe Campsites provides easy access to the Beaverkill River, known for trout fishing opportunities. "Perfect for fisherman's heaven. Right on the Beaverkill River, it's quiet, clean, gorgeous, brand new cabins and concrete pads," shares Richard V.
Hiking trails: Alder Lake offers walking paths ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. "We stayed three nights in late October. The hike around the lake is a lovely, easy walk. The hike trail that connects to the far end of the lake is 6+ miles and while there were no real views, it was lovely. We also hiked the balsam lake fire tower which had nice views of the area," notes Erik C.
Water activities: Multiple campgrounds offer river and lake recreation during summer months. "This was a great campground and I am sure they do even more when social distancing is not required. I was very impressed that even though our neighbors were loud, they all respected quiet time at 11pm," explains Kelly J. from Crazy Acres Campground.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Many campers appreciate the more private sites available at select campgrounds. "We arrived here early afternoon, which ended up being perfect timing as we could set up everything and catch sunset by the fire. The place is pretty easy to access with paved road the whole way there except for the last 1/2 mile where it is very bumpy," says Nora S.
Yurt accommodations: Yurt camping near Arkville, New York has become increasingly popular with several options available. The Blueberry Patch offers well-appointed yurts with wood stoves for cool nights. "It was beginning of fall in October and the dark nights were filled with gazing shooting stars. A wood oven stove to keep us cozy our entire stay. Great for those seeking quiet and zen like space," reports Shirley A.
Family-oriented environments: Jellystone Park Gardiner offers extensive facilities for families. "Nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone or they have a 3 ft pool also. My older kids preferred a deeper pool but they still had a great time there they have lasertag which they enjoy. And a bounce pillow," says Amanda S.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Choose sites based on your specific needs and preferences. "We truck camped here. Very nice place with super owners. Very clean bathrooms and showers. My site had 30 amp electric (also 2 extension cord outlets in the box) and water. Very quiet as they had just opened," notes Wilson W.
Seasonal considerations: The camping season typically runs May through October, with variable conditions. "Was able to tent fairly close to the lot. No cell service. If you bring a handsaw youll be good for firewood. Bugs were pretty bad. Awesome sunrise," reports Gabe from Alder Lake.
Catskill yurt options: Several campgrounds near Arkville offer yurt camping with varying amenities. "The farm, playground, beach, and shallow river make it a great, easy entry point for new and younger campers. Restrooms were very clean every time we needed them, and they were easy to access from the tent sites," explains Justin H. from Roscoe Campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule around weekend events for maximum enjoyment. "This place is great for kids or diverse groups that all want to do different things. It's very family themed and fun for everyone. However, it can end up being as crowded as an amusement park depending on when you go," advises Carrie J.
Swimming options: Russell Brook Campsites provides natural water access suitable for children. "Our site was massive (39) and and direct access to Russell Brook. Couldn't keep my son out of the water. Very peaceful. Felt like we had the place to ourselves. Very clean. Definitely will be going back," shares Mike C.
Pack for variable weather: Summer days can reach 80°F while nights drop into the 50s. "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore. I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there. We got a red carpet site by the Gaga pit and near the water park and it was a convenient yet noisy site," mentions Stephanie H.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for hookups: Thousand Trails Rondout Valley offers full hookup sites with varying terrain. "This was my first stay at any TT campground and I wasn't sure what to expect with this campground as the reviews are so mixed. The only problem I had was that my Starlink didn't work at the first site (372 - full hookup) but they let me choose another site (435 - no sewer) and I was happy as a clam," shares Inez W.
Leveling considerations: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling RVs. "This is a Thousand trails campground so it was free. I think the regular price is $64. Full hookups, tents and cabins to rent. Sites are well groomed. We had one and a babbling brook was 30 feet behind us. Great spot for morning coffee," notes Robert M.
Accessibility issues: Road conditions vary significantly between campgrounds. "It 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. It's a single camper site at the top of the hill left before the trailhead parking," warns SJ W. about accessing Alder Lake.
