The Bethel region sits at approximately 1,300 feet above sea level in the western edge of the Catskill Mountains. Temperatures can range from 75-85°F during summer days with cooler 50-60°F nights. Camping season typically runs from early May through mid-October with many campgrounds requiring advance reservations during peak summer weekends.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Hunter Lake Campgrounds provides lakeside sites perfect for anglers. "I usually camp here once a year in the summer. This year 2020 I went twice during the week. This camp site is conveniently located by the river. Which is really the only reason it gets 4 stars," notes Jason T. from Skinners Falls Campground.
Tube down the Delaware River: Multiple campsites offer river access for water recreation. At Soaring Eagle Campground, one visitor reported, "Nice campground right on the Delaware river great for fisherman, hikers also great for tubing down the Delaware or canoeing."
Visit Bethel Woods Performing Arts Center: Many campers stay at nearby campgrounds while attending concerts. Jessica D. explains about Happy Days Campground, "We stayed at Happy Days from Friday to Monday... Close to dining, Kauneonga Lake and Callicoon Farmers Market among others."
What campers like
Large, private campsites: The region features spacious sites compared to many other destinations. At Soaring Eagle, a reviewer noted, "The sites are larger than most campgrounds and well spaced out. I have been there on busy holiday weekends where it was full but still peaceful and private."
Family-friendly environment: Hunter Lake Campgrounds receives consistent praise for its atmosphere. Jesse S. 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."
Clean facilities: Most pet friendly campgrounds near Bethel maintain good standards. Bernadette C. observed at Skinners Falls, "The bath houses were clean but old, they had hot water and plenty of private shower stalls. The campsites are pretty spacious and lots of community green space in the center of a circular campground."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds use traditional booking methods. One visitor noted about Hunter Lake, "The only way to make a reservation is by calling them (and then apparently you have to mail them a check or money order to reserve your spot!?!)."
Crowd levels fluctuate: Weekends vs. weekdays can offer very different experiences. "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," advises a Skinners Falls camper.
Waterfront sites book quickly: Premium riverside or lakefront spots are in high demand. At Slumberland at the River's Edge, a camper shared, "Not near any other campers and every site is right on the water. Tons of amenities."
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra towels for water activities: With multiple swimming locations, bringing additional towels helps. One family at Skinners Falls Campground mentioned, "This campground was nice they offered river activities (for purchase) tubing, kayaking, rafting."
Consider campgrounds with playground facilities: Some locations offer additional entertainment 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."
Verify quiet hours policy: Enforcement varies between campgrounds. A family camping at Happy Days noted, "We have been to happy days campground twice now. Last summer and this summer and again was not disappointed! Although a small rustic campground it is beautiful and shady. Also quiet even at night after seeing dead and co at the performing art center."
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability: Not all pet-friendly campsites near Bethel offer full hookups. At Skinners Falls, guests should note there are "NO electric-hookups" and "NO water-hookups" according to the amenities list, though they do offer a "sanitary-dump."
Consider site elevation: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Little Pond Campground, one RVer mentioned, "The sites are on the smaller side and many have slanted entrances."
Verify RV length restrictions: Many of the more rustic campgrounds cannot accommodate larger rigs. A visitor to Soaring Eagle noted the campground is "NO big-rig-friendly" but still "manages to maintain a more remote and rustic feel by preserving the trees, stream and riverfront property in a mutual state without concrete pads or driveways."
