Camping near Bethel, New York offers access to the western Catskill Mountains where elevations range from 1,000 to 2,000 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than nearby metropolitan areas. The camping season typically runs from early May through late October, with sites in higher elevations experiencing frost as early as mid-September. Most campgrounds in the region are located along the Delaware River watershed, providing opportunities for water recreation.
What to do
Tubing and rafting adventures: The Delaware River is a central attraction for many campgrounds. At Skinners Falls Campground, visitors can rent equipment on-site. One camper notes, "This camp site is conveniently located by the river. They offered river activities (for purchase) tubing, kayaking, rafting. They had a small camp store and friendly staff."
Fishing at local lakes: Hunter Lake provides good fishing opportunities in a quieter setting than the more popular Delaware River spots. A visitor to Hunter Lake Campgrounds shared, "Been camping here for years. It's a quiet well kept campground right on a lake. Great family friendly campground and the owners are the best."
Paddling on smaller ponds: For those who prefer calmer waters, smaller ponds offer peaceful paddling. A camper at Little Pond Campground mentioned, "Got a kayak for the day and it was a great rate. Saw beavers and eagles."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Riverside camping spots consistently receive positive reviews. At Narrowsburg Campground, a camper reported, "Nice and clean, right on the water. Spread out just enough to feel like we had good privacy."
Spacious camping areas: Many campgrounds in the region provide ample space between sites. One visitor to Soaring Eagle Campground noted, "Sites are huge, plenty of room for 2+ family campers," while another mentioned that "The sites are larger than most campgrounds and well spaced out."
Clean facilities: While amenities vary widely between campgrounds, clean restrooms and showers are frequently mentioned in positive reviews. A camper at Happy Days Campground wrote, "Showers had great pressure and bathrooms were super clean. We showered after a Spartan Race Mud Run and they were great."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the area have limited or no cell service due to the mountainous terrain. A reviewer at Little Pond Campground advised, "Cell service is non existent and they have a pay phone near the entrance booth where you can use to make/receive phone calls. It's a 20 min drive back into town to get cell service."
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require traditional reservation methods. A camper at Hunter Lake Campgrounds mentioned, "Yes I did have to mail a check for my reservation," while others offer online booking.
Weekend noise levels: Campgrounds closer to river access points can become lively on weekends. A visitor to Skinners Falls Campground warned, "Avoid the summer weekends and holidays at all cost if you are looking for some old school camping. If you dont mind the crowd and everything that comes with it (dirty bathrooms) then have some fun."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer organized activities for children. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, a parent shared, "Our 21 month old had the time of his life here! The resorts is decked out with 2 playgrounds, a splash park, kiddie pool, family pool and hot tub. They have activities on the weekends with Yogi the mascot such as wagon rides, dance parties, arts n crafts."
Safer swimming areas: For families with young children, look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas. A parent recommended Keen Lake Resort noting, "My family has been going there for years and finally decided that this was our final place and made it our seasonal camp g place 3 years ago. My boys absolutely love it and always have something to do."
Bear safety awareness: The Catskills region requires proper food storage. At Little Pond Campground, "Each walk in site has its own bear box and outhouse," which helps families manage food safely while camping.
Tips from RVers
Utility hookup availability: Many of the best places to camp near Bethel offer varied hookup options. A camper at Slumberland at the River's Edge noted the availability of "lights already on, and a table set, along with a grill, fire pit, and covered porch."
Site leveling challenges: Campgrounds in mountainous areas often have uneven sites. A reviewer at Happy Days Campground mentioned, "We stayed at Happy Days from Friday to Monday with our 21 foot travel trailer. Site P6. Pretty level site. We liked this site and the one next to it the best out of all of the sites."
Dump station access: Some campgrounds offer dump stations but not full sewer hookups at sites. As one visitor to Happy Days Campground reported, "No sewer on sites, but has a dump station. Water pressure at the site was very good."
