The Catskill Mountain region around Circleville, New York sits at elevations between 400-1,200 feet, creating distinct microclimates for camping experiences. The area features diverse terrain with the Neversink River watershed providing water access at multiple camping locations. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night even in late fall, requiring proper preparation for seasonal camping near Circleville.
What to do
Hiking at Stokes State Forest: Located within driving distance of Circleville, this forest offers over 63 miles of marked trails. "Did a small part of the Appalachian trail while there (about 15 miles). Would love to go back when I'm better shape and try the whole trail," notes a visitor to Stokes State Forest.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes and rivers provide fishing access throughout the region. "The kids loved to fish and play in the river, explore the woods and ride bikes around," writes one camper about Oakland Valley Campground, which offers direct river access.
Watersports: Kayaking, tubing, and swimming are popular activities in warmer months. "The most beautiful campsite ever. Don't cheap out. Get the tubing package as well," recommends a visitor at Kittatinny Campground, highlighting the Delaware River's recreational value.
Animal encounters: Some campgrounds feature farm animals for children to interact with. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," explains a camper at Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, providing a unique experience beyond traditional camping.
What campers like
Seasonal camping experience: The region offers year-round options with distinct seasonal advantages. "We stayed in one of the cabins in November (#009) and again in December (#008) of 2021. I favored Cabin 8, the kitchen and bathroom were separated from the main room," explains a winter camper at Stokes State Forest.
Waterfront sites: Many campers value riverside or lakefront locations. "Our location was by the river and did not disappoint. It was a rocky location but we didn't mind," shares a visitor at Oakland Valley Campground.
Family-oriented activities: Organized events keep children entertained. "This campground is great for kids. It has a event just about every weekend with kid activity," notes a reviewer at Jellystone Park Gardiner.
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate secluded camping spots. "Camps are secluded from each other and most if not all have an elevated space to put tents or chairs. Each place comes with a lamp hang, a fire pit, and a picnic table," explains a visitor to Stokes State Forest.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campsite quality varies significantly across campgrounds. "When making reservations it said almost all sites were full but upon arrival the vast majority of sites were empty which made for a quiet/relaxing night," reports a camper at Stokes State Forest, indicating potential for last-minute availability.
Noise levels vary: Some campgrounds enforce quiet hours while others attract more social crowds. "Busy campground no quiet time loud music till 3 in the morning. Very clean, workers very friendly and helpful but after dark no one around," warns a visitor to Kittatinny Campground.
Limited bath facilities: During peak season, shower and bathroom access can be challenging. "They rarely cleaned the bathroom in all the 6 days that I stayed. The showers didn't have enough water pressure, 2 out of 6 had only hot water," explains a camper at Jellystone Park Gardiner.
Winter preparation: For cold-weather glamping close to Circleville, New York, additional heating is essential. "You need that wood stove to heat up the cabin. Turning on the oven is a help, but not a good solution. The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely," advises a winter visitor to Stokes State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools with varying features. "Nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone or they have a 3 ft pool also," shares a parent who stayed at Jellystone Park Gardiner.
Bring entertainment: Some campgrounds have limited children's facilities. "Not a whole lot for children to do. There's a bounce pillow to jump on and a really old and rickity swing set and an old metal slide," notes a visitor at Neversink River Resort.
Consider non-peak visits: Weekday stays often provide a quieter experience. "We went with a few families and had a nice time. It is very basic and that worked for us. We were just there for the weekend to sit around the fire and catch up with friends," reports a camper at Neversink River Resort.
Cabin options: For luxury glamping close to Circleville, consider cabins with amenities. "Sussex county is beautiful. Stokes is such a peaceful campground! We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family," recommends a repeat visitor to Stokes State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Very nice! TT encore campgrounds. This is a Thousand trails campground so it was free. I think the regular price is $64. Full hookups, tents and cabins to rent. Sites are well groomed," shares an RV camper at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
Site-specific reviews: Research individual sites before booking. "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," advises a camper at Neversink River Resort.
Reservation flexibility: Some campgrounds accommodate unexpected changes. "This campground was a nice and quiet stop on our way home from a trip to Vermont. Our truck broke down and they were able to accommodate us for an extra nights stay while it was being fixed," explains a visitor to Oakland Valley Campground.
