Cairo camping areas provide diverse terrain options from wooded campsites to river and lake access points. Campgrounds in this Catskill region sit at elevations between 600-1,500 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect seasonal camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with cool evenings even during peak season.
What to do
Hiking at Kaaterskill Falls: Located minutes from North-South Lake Campground, this waterfall offers accessible trails. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot. We had a wonderful weekend there," reports Brittany W., highlighting the proximity to natural attractions.
Fishing opportunities: The 7-acre lake at Whip O Will Campsites provides fishing options away from crowded areas. "Found this campground solely on Internet. Pleasantly surprised that it was more than expected when I arrived. Full facilities and nice fishing pond," notes George C.
Creek exploration: Several campgrounds feature creeks for cooling off during hot days. At Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds, Kathy G. mentions, "The creek on the property (Plattekill) is great, the pond is fun to fish in, the RC track is great for those who are into it."
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Campground bathrooms receive consistent attention. "The bathrooms were fine. They were clean but sometimes ran out of toilet paper," notes a camper at Kenneth L Wilson Campground, reflecting reasonable expectations for state park facilities.
Privacy between sites: Many Cairo area campgrounds provide good spacing between sites. "The sites are well spaced out. Great for families. The lake is huge. Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds," advises Tara L. about North-South Lake.
Diverse accommodation options: Beyond typical tent and RV sites, some campgrounds offer unique stays. Jeff describes Treetopia Campground: "They have RV sites, yurts, custom furnished treehouses with electricity, beautiful tiny homes with outdoor living spaces, completely remodeled vintage airstreams, and gorgeous private cabins!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for holiday weekends. "Reserve very early for waterfront," advises Rachel G. about North-South Lake.
Day-use versus camping areas: North-South Lake enforces strict day-use versus camping areas. A visitor reports confusion: "We were not camping but didn't realize we couldn't park in an empty campsite." Understanding these distinctions prevents problems.
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds have limited or no cell service. Sam L. notes about Devil's Tombstone Campground: "there is NO cell service here. You have to drive about 5 minutes towards Hunter to get service."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer playground facilities for children. Regarding Whip O Will, Nicole S. shares: "The campground was so huge the grounds were so nice. It had a little arcade, a nice lake, and playground."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds provide swimming areas. Lizz H. comments about North-South Lake: "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time."
Wildlife viewing: Wildlife sightings add educational opportunities for children. Joseph C. describes his experience at Schodack Island: "Many 'exotic' birds (for a Brooklyn boy, anything that is not a pigeon or sparrow is exotic). We had frequent visits from Gray Catbirds, and I saw a glimpse of a Bald Eagle through the treeline."
Tips for RVers
Site dimensions: RV-friendly campgrounds vary in site size and accessibility. Richard V. notes about Rip Van Winkle: "Amazing campground with perfectly spaced large sites."
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups are common, but sewer connections vary. At Treetopia, a camper reports: "If you have an RV, they have 30/50 amp with electric and water. There is no sewer, but they have a dump-station and on-site Honeywagon truck that you can schedule."
Delivery services: Some campgrounds offer convenience services for RVers. "If you ordered firewood they would deliver it right to your site which was appreciated," notes Derek W. about Blue Mountain Reservation.
