The Catskill region surrounding Athens, New York offers camping across varied terrains ranging from 600 to 4,000 feet in elevation. The area experiences warm summers with average temperatures of 75-85°F and cooler nights around 55-65°F, making it suitable for pet owners seeking outdoor adventures with their animals throughout the camping season.
What to do
Hiking with dogs on specific trails: At Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground, visitors can access multiple pet-friendly hiking paths. As one camper notes, "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards/kyacks etc. Worth every penny" (Mellisa T.).
Water activities for pets: Dogs that enjoy swimming can join their owners at Copake Falls Area's designated water spots. According to one visitor, "Had a couple spots right next to each other on a group trip. There are plenty of hiking trails nearby and of course, trails to Bash Bish Falls which is beautiful. It was low the first time we visited and we were able to make it to the top of the falls to go swimming and the views were incredible" (Jackie G.).
Winter exploration: Unlike many seasonal options, Schodack Island State Park Campground remains accessible for cold weather camping with pets. "The boat ramp dock turns into a death trap when a big wake from a boat hits the river bank!" (Kevin C.), so keep dogs leashed near water access points.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the site layout at Treetopia Campground where pets have space away from neighbors. One reviewer shared, "We went in late September and stayed on one of their deck sites with our Class B (Winnebago). I LOVED sitting out on the deck every morning for my coffee while taking in the fall air" (Janly P.).
Clean bathroom facilities: Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds receives praise for their well-maintained restrooms, which makes longer stays with pets more comfortable. A camper mentioned, "Rip Van Winkle is a beautiful campground, it's well run, well maintained, and has a lot to do!" (Kathy G.).
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural environment at Schodack Island State Park provides excellent wildlife observation opportunities for nature enthusiasts with pets. "Lots of bunnies, weasels, chipmunks, birds, and butterflies. Plenty of space to walk the dog. Be sure to bring your dogs rabies records!! They don't let you in with just the tag, it has to be the paper records" (Kara W.).
What you should know
Pet documentation requirements: Taconic State Park enforces strict vaccination verification for pets. "If you are traveling with a dog, be sure to bring proof of rabies— they ask" (Erin B.).
Seasonal mosquito conditions: Be prepared for insects, particularly near water features. At Brookside Campground, "During the heavy rains water flowed down the roads ways due to the clay based soil and looked like it pooled up in places near the tent areas" (David S.), creating potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Site selection considerations: Choose locations based on your pet's needs. "A lot of complaints that up front the sites were too close together and this was true, but more towards the back was more spacious and private sites" (John E.) at Taconic State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly activities for kids: North-South Lake Campground provides family-oriented spaces where children can interact with pets safely. "This campground has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single. Great place to camp. The view from the town to the campground was amazing!!!" (Eliany L.).
Weather preparedness: Weather changes quickly in the Catskills, affecting pets and families alike. At Whip O Will Campsites, staff care about camper welfare: "After the storm, the staff came out to check on us individually to make sure we were okay! So nice of them" (Nicholas F.).
Farm animal encounters: Brookside Camp Grounds offers unique experiences for families with pets. "Small farm right next to our site, goats, cow chickens, ducks, geese" (David R.), providing supervised animal interaction opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Pet exercise areas: Blue Mountain Reservation offers RV sites with accessible walking areas for pets. "As someone who typically goes backpacking it was nice to go hiking, shower, cook, and then relax by the fire" (Derek W.).
Water hookups for pet needs: Whip O Will Campsites provides water access at sites for pet hydration and cleaning. "Water spouts at every site. Sites were really spacious too!" (Nicholas F.).
Site spacing considerations: For RVers with pets, space between sites matters. At Lake Taghkanic State Park, "Great beach, 5 minute drive from campground. Clean facilities, with a rec room for rainy days. A camp store with all the supplies you might have forgotten" (Kurt S.).
Guide
