Tent camping around Circleville, New York sits at approximately 600 feet elevation in the foothills of the Shawangunk Mountains, creating moderate temperatures that average 45-85°F during the primary camping season. The region's deciduous forest terrain features rocky outcroppings and several small creeks. Camping options vary from more developed sites with amenities to backcountry experiences with minimal facilities across state and local lands.
What to do
Rock climbing access: Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground serves as a hub for climbers visiting the area. "Located really close to the Gunks for climbing and also some great hikes around the area," notes Jackie B. This campground is specifically designed with climbers in mind, with many guests rising early for full days on the rock.
Swimming and paddling: Lake swimming provides summer relief at several campgrounds. At Sam Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground — Minnewaska State Park Preserve, you can access the unusual waters of Lake Minnewaska. One camper describes it as the "Most acidic lake in New York but completely safe" for swimming. The lake's acidity creates a unique swimming experience with exceptionally clear water.
Hiking networks: Extensive trail systems connect many camping areas. At Wawayanda State Park Campground, located about 25 miles from Circleville, hikers can access multiple trail systems. "Fantastic loop hike near some amazing hidden lakes," reports one visitor who notes the trails offer varying difficulty levels suitable for different hiking abilities.
What campers like
Flat, well-maintained tent sites: Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground receives consistent praise for its tent pads. "This campground was extremely manicured. There is no eating at the campsite, they would prefer you cook and eat by the showers, the lights go off at a certain time," explains Seth K. The campground maintains exceptionally high standards for cleanliness and organization.
Communal atmosphere: The social aspect of camping areas appeals to many visitors. Mollie R. points out that Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground offers a "Communal fire pit and supplied wood" along with a "covered communal pavilion with picnic tables, big sinks for washing dishes, and lighting (which shuts off at 9:47PM)." This setup encourages interaction between campers.
Secluded walk-in sites: For tent campers seeking more privacy near Circleville, multiple campgrounds offer walk-in options. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed provides a more rustic experience: "This isn't a fancy campsite and has no amenities. There is a small (10 car) parking lot and a trail that runs thru 80 acres of forest. Camping is allowed anywhere 150ft from the trail," according to Cory D., making it ideal for those wanting maximum seclusion.
What you should know
Bear precautions: Black bears are active throughout the region. One camper at Wawayanda State Park Campground notes the presence of "Ticks and bears" as considerations when camping in the area. Many established campgrounds provide bear boxes, while dispersed sites require proper food storage in vehicles.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking. Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground assigns sites rather than allowing selection: "We were assigned our reserved site rather than choosing it," mentions Mollie R.
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Free camping options lack amenities. At Hemlock Ridge MUA, Dawn M. reports, "There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it's quiet & off the beaten path." Expect to carry in all necessary supplies including water and waste disposal bags.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options for mixed groups: For families new to tent camping near Circleville, cabin options provide a transition. Peace and Carrots Farm Bluebird Tiny Home offers an introduction to outdoor sleeping. One visitor explains, "In September my Girlfriend (who has never been camping) and I made the trip to New York. I love camping but I knew that I needed to slowly adjust her into the idea of being in and sleeping in the great outdoors. This place was the perfect fit."
Clear swimming areas: Designated swimming zones with marked boundaries help with child safety. At Lake Minnewaska, the maintained swimming area provides clear sightlines for parents watching children. Similarly, the "new docks around the swimming area create a safer swimming experience for even the most inexperienced swimmers, allowing them safe and obvious perimeters" at Lake Frederick Outdoor Recreation Area.
Noise considerations: Sound carries between sites at most campgrounds. At Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, one camper noted that "The music from a party at the neighboring property was audible, but not super loud on a Saturday night (earplugs did the trick)." Consider mid-week camping for quieter experiences with children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At many Circleville-area campgrounds, finding level ground can be difficult. At Port Jervis Elks Brox Hiker/Biker Campground, Gregg T. advises, "I would not drive an rv in here except maybe a small type trailer." Similarly, M P. at Wawayanda State Park Campground points out that "Site #3 is on a hill which doesn't make for a comfortable night of sleep."
Vehicle access limitations: Several camping areas have restricted road access. As Gregg T. notes about Elks Brox Memorial Park, "I read a previous review that stated small cars stay away. I have a Nissan rogue and made it in no problem." Most tent camping areas near Circleville have unpaved access roads that may become difficult after rain.
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds in the region lack full RV services. Even the more developed sites typically offer only basic amenities without sewer or electrical connections, making them better suited for tent camping or self-contained smaller campers.
