Camping options near Claryville, New York range from established forest campgrounds to primitive sites along local waterways. The region sits at elevations between 1,600-2,500 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than nearby urban areas. Fall camping season typically ends by mid-October when nighttime temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trail networks: Access diverse trail systems from campgrounds in the western Catskills region. At Ocquittunk in Stokes State Forest, campers appreciate the immediate trail access. "This park feels very PA to us with rolling hills, bald-top mountains to climb (some with fire towers), and lots of water to explore," notes Harry H., who adds that the "individual sites were generously sized, shady, and relatively private thanks to the vegetation."
Fishing spots: Cast for small fish species in local ponds and streams that dot the region. Betty Brook Camp offers streamside camping with good fishing access. Robert B. explains it's "remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream."
Swimming locations: Cool off in designated swimming areas during summer months. North-South Lake Campground maintains popular swimming facilities. According to Lizz H., "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time."
Kayaking and canoeing: Rent boats at select locations or bring your own to explore calm waters. North-South Lake offers various paddling options with Shannon C. reporting: "We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many horse campgrounds near Claryville, New York feature well-spaced camping areas. Amanda P. from Bear Spring Mountain describes sites as "Clean, private, and quiet! We had a blast!!"
Lake views: Waterfront camping spots provide scenic wake-up views. At Ocquittunk, Kara L. recommends site #T007: "We were able to position our tent facing the lake, it was beautiful!"
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained bathhouses rank high on camper priority lists. Charlotte D. from Keen Lake Resort Campground notes, "This family run Campground is beautiful and clean. The RV sites are spaced out nicely."
Wildlife viewing: Animal sightings enhance the camping experience in equestrian camping areas around Claryville. Mayra D. from Bear Spring Mountain mentions staying "in May and there were plenty of empty sites so it was nice and quiet."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the region operate on limited schedules. North-South Lake Campground runs from "May 19 to October 22" according to the website information.
Food storage regulations: Proper storage containers are essential at Catskill campgrounds. Kevin T. notes Bear Spring Mountain has "horses so you will smell them" and recommends following safety protocols: "Obey bear rules!"
Water access points: Drinking water availability varies by location. Peter from Betty Brook Camp notes the site "is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road. There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away."
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites fill quickly during summer months. For North-South Lake, Maribeth W. warns it's "Always packed, but always beautiful. Awesome access to the Catskill Escaprment trail from here."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain play areas for younger visitors. J G. from Bear Spring Mountain notes "There is an area for day use where you can rent a paddle boat or kayak to go out on the water."
Junior ranger programs: Participate in educational activities available at state-run facilities. Jessica W. recommends North-South Lake: "Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable, bathrooms & beach areas are always clean, & the hiking nearby is fantastic. A lot of the hiking nearby is also relatively easy."
Weather preparations: Mountain elevations can create rapid temperature changes. For camping at Keen Lake, Dawn T. shares "This is a very nice park with a beautiful lake. Clean bath houses and very friendly staff. They have activities for all ages."
Covered shelter options: Some sites offer protection from unexpected rain. Ethan K. appreciates that at Ocquittunk "One big positive was the covered picnic area which was a nice place to bring food and eat and hang out during the day to get out of the sun."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Check specific campground restrictions before arriving with larger rigs. For Stokes State Forest, Peter from Betty Brook Camp cautions "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small."
Hookup limitations: Understand available utility connections before arrival. At Keen Lake, Harry L. shares "When we got to our site the sewer pipe was buried and we didn't know where it was, they sent someone out to our site within minutes."
Driving conditions: Mountain roads present challenges for larger vehicles. Brittany W. notes North-South Lake is "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls" making it accessible while still providing wilderness experience.
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