The Catskill Mountain region surrounding Cragsmoor sits at elevations between 1,200 and 2,200 feet, creating distinct temperature patterns that campers should prepare for. Nights can drop 15-20°F cooler than daytime temperatures, even in summer months. Most campgrounds in this area operate seasonally from April through November, with several tent-friendly locations featuring raised platforms to accommodate the region's rocky terrain.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Oakland Valley Campground offers direct river access where families can fish or wade. "River level has more primitive bathrooms and some bathrooms with running water. You can camp right next to the river and it has a great view," notes Jeanne-Marie P. in her review of Oakland Valley Campground.
Winter glamping options: Unlike most seasonal operations, at least one glamping site remains open year-round near Cragsmoor. The single-site Year-Round Scenic Lakefront Glamping accommodation provides opportunities for winter enthusiasts to experience the region's snowy landscape. As Ashley F. mentioned in her review, you can "immerse yourself in nature's beauty" at this Historic Hudson Valley Riverside Hemp Farm.
Monument views: The highest elevation point in the region offers panoramic views for hikers and sightseers. "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view," shares Yolanda T. about the viewing opportunities at High Point State Park.
What campers like
Kid-focused amenities: Families appreciate the children's activities at Jellystone Park Gardiner. "This campground is great for kids. It has events just about every weekend with kid activity," shares Jennifer I. The park features designated children's areas and organized programming throughout the operating season.
Creek exploration: Waterways running through camping areas provide natural entertainment. "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish," wrote Kasey M. about her experience at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley. The shallow water areas near camping sites create safe zones for children to discover aquatic wildlife.
Family-friendly seclusion: Some sites offer privacy despite their family orientation. "The sites seemed closer together by the river, but not too bad. It was a nice stay," reports Dawn E. about Oakland Valley Campground. Many campsites include buffer zones of natural vegetation to create separation between neighboring sites.
What you should know
Site conditions vary: Not all platforms and sites are level, which can complicate setup. One High Point State Park camper noted: "The gravel driveway is on a 30-40 degree incline. The tent was too long for the 12'x10' platform, so we had to set it up on the flattest part and hope not to roll down the hill in the night."
Bathroom limitations: Facilities differ significantly between campgrounds, with some lacking modern amenities. "Bathrooms are spaced out. No running water except for pump founded outside of the bathrooms. Toilets are pump flushed. Showers are only located INSIDE High Point State Park, not throughout the campsites," explains Damia F. in her review of High Point State Park Campground.
Noise considerations: Sound carries between sites in some campgrounds. "We got complaints about the volume of our music and karaoke around 7 pm," mentioned one reviewer about their experience, highlighting the importance of maintaining moderate noise levels, especially in more densely arranged camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for weather changes: Temperature fluctuations require appropriate clothing and gear. "It was nice fall weather until the rain the last night. The lake was beautiful in the morning with mist or steam," shares Dwight D. about camping at High Point State Park, suggesting the need to pack for variable conditions.
Consider age-appropriate activities: Different campgrounds cater to specific age groups. "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. My older kids preferred a deeper pool but they still had a great time," explains Amanda S. about Jellystone Park Gardiner.
Research site layout beforehand: Understand the physical setup before booking. "Drive in but ours had a drive in to a mini trail so it was a pain to load/unload," mentions Christine N. about High Point State Park, highlighting the importance of knowing distance from parking to actual campsite when traveling with children and gear.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain. "The 'trailer' sites aren't level," notes Grant M. about his experience at High Point State Park. Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended for most campgrounds in this mountainous region.
Rental equipment considerations: Some campgrounds offer equipment rentals, but they may have limitations. "Love it here but renting a golf cart is prob not the best option $175 for 2 days and it only goes 5mph I can walk faster than that," advises Scott about Jellystone Park, suggesting campers should evaluate rental costs against value.
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds near Cragsmoor provide complete RV services. "We had one and a babbling brook was 30 feet behind us. Great spot for morning coffee," shares Robert M. about his experience at Neversink River Resort, highlighting the combination of scenic placement with practical amenities.
