Best Camping near Chester, NY

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Chester, NY has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Chester. Find the best campgrounds near Chester, NY. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Chester, NY (176)

    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    1. Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    40 Reviews
    148 Photos
    485 Saves
    Pomona, New York

    Beaver Pond offers campsites, some with a raised platform, for up to two tents and six persons per site; select sites can accommodate a trailer or RV up to 30 ft. long. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring with flip top grill, and there are shared full-service bathrooms centrally located. Located in Harriman State Park and adjacent to Lake Welch, the campground offers convenient access to swimming beaches, hiking trails, and neighboring state park facilities. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of the Lower Hudson Valley, while having the ease of access to local shops, historic sites, and countless seasonal events.

    *Please be advised that there are no electrical hook ups for trailers at this campground.

    Alcohol is not permitted at Beaver Pond Campgrounds.

    No Pets Permitted.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $15 - $22 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park

    2. Clarence Fahnestock State Park — Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park

    34 Reviews
    121 Photos
    417 Saves
    Fishkill, New York

    This scenic campground, formed along the park's natural rock ridges, provides alcoves of privacy and tranquility for campers. Each of the 80 campsites has a picnic table and fire ring. Additionally there is an area for RV camping. Although there are no hookups available or dump station, restroom and shower facilities are centrally located to all RV and tent sites. Individuals, as well as larger camping groups, are welcome. The campground's nature center houses environmental displays and a variety of touch boxes. On weekends, park staff organizes hikes and craft activities. Movies are shown on Saturday evenings for the enjoyment of all campers.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner

    3. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner

    23 Reviews
    50 Photos
    97 Saves
    Gardiner, New York

    Overlooking the winding Wallkill River, Yogi Bear Campground NY is set on 100 rolling acres and boasts a majestic view of the Shawangunk Ridge. When our campers aren’t busy swimming and splashing at Yogi Bear’s Water Zone & Splash Pad or bouncing high on our jumping pillow, they can enjoy endless outdoor activities and amenities that the whole family will enjoy. All of our cabins and campsites take full advantage of the unparalleled setting and beautiful scenery that surrounds our Camp-Resort. Just a short drive from hiking at Minnewaska State Park and local history in New Paltz, Jellystone Park™ offers a breathtaking camping experience for everyone.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from High Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from High Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from High Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from High Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from High Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from High Point State Park Campground

    4. High Point State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    138 Photos
    135 Saves
    Matamoras, Pennsylvania

    High Point Camp Campsites: 50 tent sites (no trailers) along Sawmill Lake with fire rings and picnic tables. Flush toilets are within walking distance. Open April 1 through October 31. Fee: NJ Resident $20 per night; Non Resident $25 per night. Group campsites: Two group campsites with drinking water and pit toilets. Each campsite accommodates up to 25 people. Open year round. During the winter months visitors must bring in their own water or obtain it at the park office. Fee: NJ Resident $50 per night; Non Resident $100 per night. Cabins: Two cabins each with furnished living room with a woodstove; three bedrooms -one room with double bed, two rooms with twin beds; kitchen with hot and cold running water, electric stove, refrigerator; bathroom with shower, toilet, and sink. Electricity. Cabins are located on eastern shore of Steenykill Lake. Each accommodates six people. With prior permission from the superintendent, two additional people may be accommodated. Cabins are open from May 15 to October 15. Fee: NJ Resident $75 per night; 525 per week; Non Resident $85 per night; $595 per week. Group cabin: Living room with woodstove, full kitchen, two bunkrooms with double bunks, bathrooms, showers. Accommodates up to 28 people. Open May 15 to October 15. Fee: NJ Resident $175 per night; Two-night minimum; Non Resident $185 per night; Two-night minimum.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $5 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Stokes State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Stokes State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Stokes State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Stokes State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Stokes State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Stokes State Forest

    5. Stokes State Forest

    26 Reviews
    136 Photos
    449 Saves
    Layton, New Jersey

    Nestled in the Appalachian Wilderness of New Jersey, Stokes State Forest attracts campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts all over thanks to its many viewpoints and wild terrain. Spanning over 16,400 acres, visitors can expect exciting adventures crammed with tons of wilderness activities. Surprisingly, there’s a large range of amenities within the various campgrounds located throughout. In addition, there’s a host of unique geographic features to keep even the most dedicated busy for weeks.

    Speaking of geography, there’s no shortage of terrain diversity here. For example, Sunrise Mountain towers 1,653 feet over the undeveloped New Jersey farmland to the East, as well as virgin mountain ranges and forests to the West. Located along the legendary Appalachian Trail, this mountain peak is the most frequently visited site in Stokes State Forest. If you’re not one to hike up the side of a mountain for a view, Sunrise Mountain Rd. traverses all the way to the top for those traveling in a vehicle.

    Nestled below, the 500+ acre Tillman Ravine Natural Area is a green wonderland home to endangered species such as the Barred Owl. The ravine showcases world-class trails spanning throughout its terrain, complete with babbling brooks and overly-curious bears to dodge during your stay.

    Additionally, Stokes State Forest is home to the Lake Ashroe Recreation Area which has an area for Kayaking and Paddle Board rentals. Even though there is no boat ramp, nearby Lake Ocquittunk is perfect for small, electric motor boats. In contrast, those looking for swimming should head to Stony Lake, which features lifeguards on duty and a great recreation area for picnicking.

    Campgrounds are plentiful here, with four different areas to camp at depending on your needs. Shotwell to the East, and Steam Mills to the west both offer normal park amenities, and are perfect for tent campers, or people interested in camping in a lean-to. Just West of Shotwell, Haskin’s Group Camping Area consists of 9 group campsites perfect for groups of 10-65 depending on the campsite. Finally, Lake Ocquittunk has its own campground with reservable campsites, and cabins as well. Fees & permits vary here, so be sure to check the park website for more info.

    Regardless of your interests, if you love the outdoors in any form you’re going to enjoy your stay here. Stokes State Forest literally offers everything an enthusiast could ever dream of doing. From its babbling creeks and forested ravines, to the breathtaking mountain peaks, this is an Appalachian camping experience you don’t want to miss out on.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $7 - $55 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from New York City North-Newburgh KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New York City North-Newburgh KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New York City North-Newburgh KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New York City North-Newburgh KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New York City North-Newburgh KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New York City North-Newburgh KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation

    7. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation

    18 Reviews
    42 Photos
    300 Saves
    Jefferson, New Jersey

    This is the largest park in the Morris County Park System, encompassing 3,494 acres of beautiful near-wilderness and recreational areas. The Reservation is the park to visit with over 24.5 miles of multi-use trails for novice and experienced skill levels. For off-road bicyclists, discover the challenge and adventure of the blazed biking trails. Horseback riding, seasonal camping, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and softball are recreational activities at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. Digital trail maps are available online.

    One of the outstanding features of the Reservation is the magnificent view from atop Headley Overlook, a 1,280 foot elevation, one of the highest points in Morris County. The Saffin Pond area is a most scenic location to enjoy a day of fishing. The Saffin Rock Rill area offers space for educational programs.

    Some of the unique activities at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation include a radio-controlled car track, and model boat racing. All are operated by nonprofit groups comprised of interested residents.

    Mahlon Dickerson Reservation (MDR) is a 3,590+ acre park with miles of trails and a Recreational Campground. MDR is a quiet place to enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, birdwatching and more. There are two (2) camping areas within the park. One (1) area accommodates Recreational Vehicle (RV) campers who travel with Motorhomes (Class A/B/C), Trailers/Fifth Wheels and Pop-up Campers. The second area is for Tent and Adirondack Shelter (Shelter) campers.

    This campground is designated for recreational camping only.

    This seasonal site is intended for short-term stays and does not allow for monthly or long-term reservations.

    RV Sites - Reservations area allowed for up to fourteen (14) consecutive nights and cannot exceed 14 reserved nights in a 30 day period. Tent and Shelter Sites - Reservations are allowed for up to two (2) consecutive nights, three (3) consecutive nights on a Holiday weekend and cannot exceed two (2) reserved nights , three (3) on a Holiday weekend in a 7 day period.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Winding Hills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winding Hills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winding Hills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winding Hills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winding Hills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Winding Hills Park

    8. Winding Hills Park

    8 Reviews
    30 Photos
    141 Saves
    Montgomery, New York

    A 51-site facility for trailers or tents in a heavily wooded area. Each site contains a picnic table and fire ring. The two large, centrally located comfort stations contain electricity and shower facilities. Advanced holiday weekend reservations may be made by calling (845) 457-4918. Reservations will be taken only for Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day and Columbus Day weekends. Season: Weather permitting, from the first Friday in May to the fourth Sunday in October. The 2022 Season will open on May 6th. NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ARE PERMITTED IN THE CAMPGROUND.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $25 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park

    9. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park

    6 Reviews
    12 Photos
    127 Saves
    Pomona, New York

    The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center is an ideal destination for anyone looking for hiking, paddling, and camping opportunities in the heart of Harriman State Park at Breakneck Pond. Harriman State Park, New York’s second largest park, is located 30 miles from Manhattan and accessible by public transportation.

    The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center is open to the public, and is a great location for scouting, school, faith-based, and youth groups as well as family reunions and corporate outings.

    The Center offers common space for outdoor programs, waterfront access to 64-acre Breakneck Pond, a dining hall, and group meeting space. Accommodations include group and family cabins, tent platforms, and three-sided shelters, offering a range of overnight experiences.

    The public can also enjoy The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center through an AMC adult, family, or teen program. Membership is not required to join an AMC program. AMC members receive discounts on lodging and programs. Click here for a complete listing of upcoming programs for adults and teens.

    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Market
    Camper-submitted photo from Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
Showing results 1-10 of 176 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Chester

Recent Reviews in Chester

848 Reviews of 176 Chester Campgrounds


  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dingmans Campground - Delaware Water Gap NRA
    Nov. 5, 2024

    Dingmans Campground - Delaware Water Gap NRA

    Beautiful sites

    I’m a family of 5 and my friends family of three all stayed in one site. We went in October at the peak of the leaves changing colors. It’s was beautiful. A 6 point buck walked right through our site literally. The kids enjoyed it a lot. Amenities were very clean. Even the portapot we used was very clean. Will visit again. No service/no electronics. A good way to just unplug and enjoy Gods creation

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mirror Lake Retreat
    Oct. 31, 2024

    Mirror Lake Retreat

    I stayed up there for work it was nice

    I was only up there for a few days for work. But it was really nice and had great play scale

  • Dan G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Lake Camping Resort
    Oct. 30, 2024

    Panther Lake Camping Resort

    Too expensive! Water stinks!

    Nice staff but water smells horrible! The staff know about the water smell and told me there’s a lot of iron in the ground. I was charged $105/night for a basic back-in pad. When I consider that plus “trailer park” feel of all the permanent patrons with the clutter and crap everywhere- not worth it!!! The CG needs some work.

  • Oak T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Stokes State Forest
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Stokes State Forest

    Always stoked for Stokes!

    Stokes is my go-to state park for unplugging and enjoying time with my family. We brought our son (23 months at time of visit) on his first camping trip this past September. He loved every minute of it.

    Site T07 in Lake Ocquittunk is gorgeous and one of the few relatively secluded sites in the campground. You need to carry your gear down a narrow, rocky path that's a little steep near the road, but it's manageable. There's also a graded path into the site adjacent to a neighboring site, but you should check with those campers if they are ok with you cutting through to use it. (We opted not to disturb our neighbors and take the slope.)

    I thought I would be able to launch my kayak from site 7 since it's waterfront, but there are a lot of huge rocks in the water that prevent you from getting out into the lake. We had to find a different launch spot. That was probably the biggest disappointment for us.

    Still, I love site 7 and it's absolutely worth the privacy and the views every morning.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Croton Point Park
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Croton Point Park

    Not too much to offer

    General: A county park with a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites near a capped dump! There is a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point, but they appeared to be part of a group camp experience. They all appeared to be closed for the season (or because no one was renting at the time; they reminded me of places I used to take youth groups for weekend camps). The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in to find out your site.

    Site Quality: We had a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level. The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together. No one was in the tent sites, but they did have new picnic tables.

    Activities/Amenities: Other than a playground and a basketball court, there did not seem to be any activities to partake in. There used to be a pool but from the looks of it, it hasn’t been in use for many years. There are walking paths outside of the campground that are located within the park, but we did not have time to explore them. 

    Bath/Shower house: Clean but a bit dated. No shelves or hooks for toiletries. I was surprised the door was left open all night long. There was a sign warning that the toilets were slow flushing, but I think this may have been fixed because the flush was so powerful that the water splashed over the top of the seat! 

    Because it was on a point on the Hudson, I had hoped for views from the campground but there were too many trees to see the water. I was perplexed by the signs throughout saying no trespassing/fishing prohibited. I get the no fishing part but the trespassing? When we checked in, we had to write down our credit card number on a slip of paper before we were given a key that opened the gate to the campground. When we checked out, we asked for the paper or to watch it get shredded but were told they had to keep it on file which concerned us.

  • Jake R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Campgaw Mountain Reservation
    Oct. 15, 2024

    Campgaw Mountain Reservation

    Busy but Lonely

    Campgaw doesn’t seem to offer much in terms of a camping experience. The sites themselves are fairly close to the road and there are super popular hiking trails that run right through all the camps. If you like being woken up by folks walking their dog at 7 AM, this is the spot for you.

    However, once the sun goes down, the campsite becomes a ghost town (except for the odd sheriff driving down the road). We went on a holiday weekend, and we were the only campsite that was occupied, so that is absolutely a plus. There was also plenty to do during the day, like joining the hikers on those trails, disc golf, and sitting by the water.

    All-in-all, it is not a terrible site, especially considering the cheap price.

  • Jared W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Osa Trail
    Sep. 29, 2024

    Osa Trail

    Great family campsite!

    We had a great time staying here. It's a very beautiful campsite. There's lots of great hiking and activities in the area.

  • Jacob D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
    Sep. 19, 2024

    Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    Very nice and relaxed

    Perfect place to get away and be in the calm nature. Only sound I’ve heard is the birds in the trees. Very open area with many sites with bear lockers, picnic tables and fire pits. We called ahead yesterday and they said it’s walk-in, so we will go register now because we came in late. Only $20 for out of state!! That’s the cheapest I’ve seen across all New England lol

  • William T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Deerfield Health Retreat
    Sep. 11, 2024

    Deerfield Health Retreat

    Pregnancy

    I recommend reading the article at https://femia.health/health-library/pregnancy/pregnancy-health/things-to-avoid-after-losing-mucus-plug/. After losing your mucus plug, which usually happens closer to labor, it is important to take some precautions to minimize the risk of complications. First of all, avoid heavy physical activity and excessive stress, as this can cause premature contractions or other problems. Also, avoid any potentially infectious activities, such as unprotected sex or using unwashed objects in the intimate area, to prevent infection. It is also important to avoid long trips and temperature changes, as this can negatively affect your condition. Visit your doctor regularly for monitoring of the condition and follow the recommendations of medical professionals.

  • Wailym C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Kittatinny Canoes River Beach Campsites
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Kittatinny Canoes River Beach Campsites

    River Access made easy

    The perks of this campground is the easy river access.  Besides Dingmans camp nearby or others on the NJ side of River, this is the only riverside campground before reaching NY.  The river access alone makes it worth a visit if you plan on kayaking a long stretch and need a home base, like we did. Friendly and attentive staff, clean bathrooms, full camp store, swimming allowed at your own risk.  They offer kayak tours with shuttle service. Small campground stretches up river side with several site options. The sites are very very small and close together.  The lower river front sites offer the best views for tent campers.  The upper RV/camper sites near entrance have some water views but most are obstructed by trees and sit high above river.  You cannot access river from here but it’s an easy short walk down to river access area.  The rest of campground is very cozy with a few sites near a small creek.  It was very quiet during the week, hardly anyone there.  We enjoyed the river almost to ourselves.   The weekends get very busy as most come to swim and bbq. Overall still a very nice spot for a weekend. Our reason for 3 star rating is the size of camp sites and road noise 24/7 due to two busy nearby roads.  We could hear it from anywhere in the campground, and some tents sites sit right along the side of the road.  But, we would stay again for the convenience of river location and accommodating staff.  We stayed in site 130 with 34’ trailer.

  • Lori M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Neversink River Resort
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Neversink River Resort

    Clean bathrooms, good amenities

    Stay in one of the last weekends of August.  We were a party of 8 so we needed 2 sites, the first sites we booked were horrible - so so tiny (E11 & E12) and right on a swampy pond where the grass is growing into the water so it was hard to see where the water line was.  We had kids, so we needed to move our sites.  We ended up right across the way on E7 & E8 - much better.  This loop for tent campers is mixed.  Some of the sites are literally on the road - stay away from the sites on the same side of the road as the pond.  I saw a family who literally had to block the road a little bc they couldn't park their car *and* have a tent on the tiny site.  Anything on the side of E7 is bigger and a little deeper into the trees, but nothing seemed to be private in this campground.  It was a busy weekend, so of course there was loud music and partying - it just so happens that it was next door to our sites.  Bathrooms were far on this loop.  There are little foot bridges that you could take to get to the bathroom easier (and closer) but they are set on people's campsites, so if someone is on that site it's really walking through their site to get to it.  The campground has good amenities - wifi, pool, jumping ball, playground, basketball courts, volleyball courts, and a tether ball court :).  Great for the kids.  Pool is small but it works.  There's a cafe there so we were able to grab coffees and stuff.  They deliver wood and ice to your site which is super convenient.  We would return for sure.  Also - just to let everyone know the fire pit is really small.

  • Cynthia K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Divide Campground
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Great Divide Campground

    Rock'in

     Our 4rth state in our 5 state trip is New Jersey! We wanted to see Delaware Water Gap NRA & I found a campground by Newton called The Great Divide. This is a private campground. Very scenic with a small lake, a pond & surrounded by woods. This is also the most expensive campground on our trip at $96.11 a night.

         Lots to do for families- they have kayaks for camper use. Horseshoes, tether ball, volleyball, a pool, a playground, a dog park. There's a swimming beach.

     One strange thing is there's a lot of tent sites & they seemed popular. For the amount of tent/popup sites they only have 1 shower per loop. They are very clean & checked often, but they're used heavily during the weekend. I had better luck Sunday evening. A bench outside the bathroom would have been nice to sit & wait. 

     The rv sites were all full hookup on our loop.

       We came in on a Friday & found out this campground ROCKS!!! They have live bands every Friday & Saturday night during the warm months. This might explain the higher rates. Party on!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline RV Park
    Aug. 27, 2024

    Skyline RV Park

    Skyline RV Camp Has Moved

    Be advised that Skyline RV Camp has moved to:

    50 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222

    The original property location at 2 Oak St was sold and is now private property.

    Google Maps coords are 40.730491531436556,-73.9577966772486

    There no longer is a waterfront view of the NYC skyline when camping at Skyline RV. The website views are misleading.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Small, don't blink you'll miss it.

    There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY. Really is a nice quiet place. It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area. Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Port Jervis Elks Brox Hiker/Biker Campground
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Port Jervis Elks Brox Hiker/Biker Campground

    Small but cool

    I read a previous review that stated small cars stay away. I nave 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. I'm right across from the lake in amongst a copse of trees. Drawback solar is pretty much out. I would not drive an rv in here except maybe a small type trailer.

  • Damia F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Stokes State Forest
    Aug. 23, 2024

    Stokes State Forest

    Campsites too close together and camping areas are greatly spaced out

    Stokes State Forest is a beautiful park with a lot of different trails to check out, though some of them are difficult to access due to parking. The camping areas are split between two different entrances. If you’re in Lake Ocquitunk, like I was, you don’t enter at the main entrance, you have to go past the main entrance about another mile on rt. 15 N. and enter by the YMCA. All the other camping areas are near the main entrance by the forest office. The campsites themselves are a little too close together in some spots with little coverage or privacy. There is a day parking area which is only accessible going through the main entrance by the forest office— if you visit during the week park entrance is free, but on the weekend fees can be a bit steep. I wasn’t super happy with my campsite as I wasn’t able to physically have my car on the site like I thought. I had to park in a small lot above my campsite and carry my belongings down a short slope to the site. I like to car-camp so this was a bit of a let down having my car separate from my actual campsite.

    The bathrooms were nice and had flush toilets, but the showers were out of service during my time. Bathrooms are extremely spaced out so you will have to walk a far distance unless you strategically choose a site next to one. I drove through the other campsite and only saw 1 set of bathrooms that had toilets and showers per campground, not including the outhouses I saw for those in the small cabins.

  • Damia F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Worthington State Forest Campground — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
    Aug. 23, 2024

    Worthington State Forest Campground — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

    Spotty/unreliable WiFi and rather busy

    If you’re looking for a place to be a recluse, this is not the campsite to go. Being it’s along the Delaware water gap it attracts a lot of people, especially in summer. During the day you can hear music, smell fires, see people tubing on the water, or pass by people doing day picnics near the forest office. I went in the middle of the week and all the campsite in my area were filled up. I’m normally used to having campgrounds to myself when I go since I do during off times so this was a bit of a surprise. WiFi is very spotty— I was essentially out of range the entirety of my stay. Trails are nice and well marked, and there is no fee to enter if you drive all the way down to the day area parking at the end of Old Mine Rd. Bathrooms were decently clean and had flush toilets. Showers had hot water and nice ventilation. Overall it was a nice campsite, but too busy for my liking.

  • Michael G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Mongaup Pond
    Aug. 18, 2024

    Mongaup Pond

    Great Catskill Campgroud

    Really enjoyed our 2nd stay at Mongaup and will return. Good, private sites and a great pond. Facilities were clean and staff was very helpful and friendly.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rest Area I-84
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Rest Area I-84

    Safe and clean

    I stayed overnight and into the next day here and was never messed with. I felt safe as a solo woman car camper. Plenty of other people staying overnight and truckers parked so I didn’t feel isolated and afraid. The bathrooms are extremely clean and there are vending machines in the visitor center.



Guide to Chester

Camping near Chester, NY, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor fun. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: The area is known for its scenic trails. Many campers enjoy the nearby Kaaterskill Falls, which is described as "short, easy trail" but can get crowded quickly. Be prepared to take a shuttle if you want to visit during peak times.
  • Swimming: Campgrounds like North-South Lake Campground feature lakes with swimming areas. One visitor mentioned, "There are two nice lakes with beaches," making it a great spot to cool off.
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers often spot bears and other wildlife. One reviewer at North-South Lake Campground shared, "There are bears that visit the campground," so keep your food secured!

What campers like:

  • Natural Beauty: Campers rave about the stunning views. A visitor at Beaver Pond Campground said, "This is my 'home' campsite and the one I visit most frequently," highlighting its picturesque setting.
  • Privacy: Many sites are well-spaced, allowing for a more secluded experience. One camper at Pickerel Point Campground noted, "I can’t believe how quiet it is here. Our site is wooded and very private."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate helpful staff. A reviewer at Camp Taylor Campground mentioned, "The family that operates this place are the friendliest and most accommodating hosts."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Beaver Pond Campground, do not allow alcohol and lack electric hookups. A visitor warned, "If you would like a peaceful, clean campground skip this place," indicating that some facilities may not meet expectations.
  • Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at North-South Lake Campground mentioned, "There is NO cell service & just forget about WiFi," so plan to unplug.
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can fill up quickly. One camper at Worthington State Forest Campground noted, "If you’re looking for a place to be a recluse, this is not the campsite to go."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Time: Visit during weekdays or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds. A camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park advised, "I DO NOT recommend going on holiday weekends or peak summer seasons."
  • Bring Entertainment: Kids can enjoy activities like swimming and hiking. One family at Camp Taylor Campground loved the "small arcade and playground" available on-site.
  • Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds don’t have stores nearby. A visitor at Pickerel Point Campground suggested, "Take a hike around Conservation Island," which is dog-friendly and a great way to explore.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some sites may be tight for larger RVs. A camper at Keen Lake Resort Campground mentioned, "The sites are average in size," so be prepared for some maneuvering.
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Campgrounds can get loud, especially on weekends. A visitor at Worthington State Forest Campground complained, "Where is the oversight in this place?" indicating noise can be an issue.
  • Bring Your Own Firewood: Some campgrounds do not sell firewood. A camper at Beaver Pond Campground noted, "Bring a table cloth!" for the picnic tables, suggesting that some amenities may not be up to par.

Camping around Chester, NY, offers a variety of experiences, from serene lakes to challenging hikes. Just be prepared for the quirks of each campground, and you’ll have a great time!

Frequently Asked Questions