Primitive tent campsites near Barryville, New York typically experience summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and dropping to 55-65°F at night. The Delaware River corridor lies at approximately 400-500 feet elevation, creating a microclimate that remains cooler than surrounding urban areas. Wildlife encounters are frequent at riverside camps, with eagle sightings reported by campers at multiple sites throughout the season.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls near camp: Several notable waterfalls exist within hiking distance of Sandyston Boat In Campsites. A camper noted, "Within minutes on the Pennsylvania side of the river you can hike to Raymondskill Falls, (one of many in easy walking distance), as well as search for abandoned/forgotten homes and mills, (some of which date back to the 1700's)."
Explore historical structures: The region contains remnants of 18th and 19th century settlements accessible from many camping areas. At Namanock Island, one visitor mentioned, "The Island was once a part of the Lenape Indian's territory, and granted it may be dated back to late 1700's/early 1800's, it almost seems like there were people here as of the day before."
Paddle to Dingman's Ferry access: This historical river crossing serves as both a landmark and facility access point. A camper stated, "Upon leaving the camp, the water is fairly shallow for about the first third of the river, but once you get out to the deeper water its a very easy paddle of maybe an hour and you are at the Dingman's Ferry area."
Connect with the McDade Recreation Trail: This multi-use trail parallels the Delaware River and connects to many primitive camping areas. As noted by one visitor to Hornbeck's River Boat In Campsites: "These three sites also have easy access to the multiuse McDade Trail, so after pitching your tent, a short walk upriver on the trail will bring you to the Dingman's Campground, whose store has ice cream and cold drinks."
What campers like
Complete isolation: Many tent camping sites in the Barryville area offer rare seclusion. A camper at Namanock Island shared, "As always, camping on the island is such a treat. You totally feel that your party is alone out on the river, the entire world is yours and yours alone. There are no public interactions, (beyond the neighboring sites), on the river for miles."
Night sky viewing: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities at primitive campsites. A visitor reported, "The island is situated in a way that once darkness falls there are no lights to be seen in either direction, up or down river. Now, no lights means an incredible view of the night sky."
Wildlife encounters: The riverside tent campsites near Barryville provide frequent wildlife sightings. One camper at Alosa Boat In Campsites mentioned, "As for local wildlife, you can expect to be visited by a masked robber or two during the night, but a bear bag hanging will eliminate any issues."
Island camping experience: Several tent camping options include staying on islands within the Delaware River. A camper summarized, "Having an entire island to yourself is a feeling I have never experienced anywhere else."
What you should know
Access limitations: Most tent sites require water transport and paddling skills. At Steam Mill Campground, a camper noted, "The campground is along the Blue Loop trail, providing either an easy walk along the stream or an easy/moderate hike that connects to the AT with views at Sunrise Mountain. I made a fairly easy 9-mile loop this time."
Permits and regulations: National Park Service rules limit stays and party sizes at many sites. According to a visitor, "People found camping at this site that are not on a river trip or that are camped at the site for longer than one day can expect to receive hefty fines from the NPS."
Water logistics: River access points determine where paddlers can begin their journey to tent sites. A reviewer explained, "We were very happy to see the openness of the sites. They were very large and while covered by 40+ft trees were open enough to make you wish you brought more gear and people just because it would fit."
Site selection timing: First-come, first-served sites fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. One camper at Sandyston recommended, "It's first Come first serve so we were definitely anxious to make sure we got a spot. There are a couple campsites on the island we stayed at and one hole in the ground to poop in."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with easier access: Some tent camping areas have more challenging approaches than others. A reviewer cautioned, "The other downside to these sites is the river to camp journey. Due to fluctuating water levels all of the islands that are used for camping have a cut wall cliff style approach, but these sites have a very steep and above average height to the shoreline."
Bring food storage equipment: Wildlife interactions require proper preparation. One camper advised, "There are bears in this area, and while I've not seen one in the campground, I have seen them on the trails while staying here. I store my food in my car overnight and toss garbage bags in the dumpster nightly as well."
Consider seasonal water conditions: Spring brings higher, faster water that affects landing safety. A visitor to Port Jervis Elks Brox Hiker/Biker Campground noted, "I read a previous review that stated small cars stay away. I have a Nissan rogue and made it in no problem. It's .8 miles in on the right. There was another closer in but seemed full."
Pack insect protection: Riverside camping areas experience significant bug activity. One camper warned, "Very buggy spot, LOTS of centipedes and other creatures at night, so bring a chair instead of sitting on the bench or log."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Most tent camping sites near Barryville cannot accommodate larger vehicles. A camper at Port Jervis Elks Brox mentioned, "I would not drive an rv in here except maybe a small type trailer."
Consider nearby developed options: For RVers seeking hookups, look beyond the primitive river sites. At Steam Mill Campground, a visitor noted, "These sites are for people truly there to camp, either in a tent or small travel trailer."
Limited solar charging options: Tree cover affects power generation capabilities. One camper reported, "I'm right across from the lake in amongst a copse of trees. Drawback solar is pretty much out."
