Best Campgrounds near Cragsmoor, NY

The camping landscape in New York's Hudson Valley near Cragsmoor encompasses several established campgrounds with varied accommodation options. Jellystone Park at Birchwood Acres and Thousand Trails Rondout Valley offer tent, RV, and cabin camping within 15 miles of Cragsmoor. Boulder Point Campground and Winding Hills Park provide more natural settings with fewer amenities but larger campsites. Primitive tent-only camping is available at the Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, which serves as a base for rock climbing and hiking in the Gunks.

Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April or May through October or early November due to the northeastern climate. "Beautiful in the fall," noted one visitor about Winding Hills Park, highlighting the colorful autumn foliage as a prime time to visit. Rainfall impacts accessibility during spring months, while summers are typically warm and humid. Reservations are recommended for holiday weekends, particularly at popular family-oriented campgrounds like Jellystone Park, where strict quiet hours are enforced. Several campgrounds require cash payment for non-residents, with fees ranging from $30-45 per night for developed sites with electrical hookups.

Campers consistently mention the wooded, shaded sites as a significant benefit across multiple campgrounds near Cragsmoor. A recent review described Winding Hills Park as having "large private sites, some with electricity, clean bath house, hot showers in a quiet and wooded campground." Family-friendly amenities distinguish certain properties, with Jellystone Park featuring swimming pools, splash parks, and organized activities. Boulder Point Campground receives praise for its more rustic atmosphere while still providing essential facilities. Cell reception varies significantly across the area, with visitors reporting unreliable service at some locations, particularly with certain carriers. Most established campgrounds offer shower facilities, potable water, and trash disposal, while more primitive sites may have limited amenities beyond vault toilets and fire rings.

Best Camping Sites Near Cragsmoor, New York (202)

    1. Jellystone Park Gardiner

    32 Reviews
    Gardiner, NY
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 255-5193

    "With a new check in area, Gardiner has really stepped up. They expanded the pool area to include another pool plus splash area and water slides."

    "We got a red carpet site by the Gaga pit and near the water park (Cindy bear lane) and it was a convenient yet noisy site. Kids were at the playground 8 am or before and the noise woke us up."

    2. Thousand Trails Rondout Valley

    13 Reviews
    Accord, NY
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Great place situated in a great area with lots to do all within an hour's drive. Even camping during a pandemic was peaceful & fun!"

    "This is a Thousand trails campground so it was free. I think the regular price is $64. Full hookups, tents and cabins to rent. Pleanty to do in and around campground."

    3. New York City North-Newburgh KOA

    14 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 564-2836

    "They have the best staff and they are everywhere, if you need someone they are always around and super friendly also."

    "Location- 4 stars- close to NYC but kinda just in the woods and close to homes, not much around. Sites- 4 stars- a real mixed bag- the rv/trailer only section is really nice, wooded."

    4. Winding Hills Park

    8 Reviews
    Montgomery, NY
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 457-4918

    $25 - $30 / night

    "We have stayed here multiple times since it’s so close to home. Reservations are needed only for major holidays during camping season; Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day."

    "The trails to walk on are perfect to get out of the campsite for a few hours. There are no spots with sewer hookup but they have a dumping area."

    5. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Birchwood Acres

    6 Reviews
    Woodridge, NY
    9 miles
    Website

    "Our RV site was private, surround by trees with a nice fire pit and picnic table."

    "There are no bathrooms in the cabin but there are public restrooms nearby. The resorts is decked out with 2 playgrounds, a splash park, kiddie pool, family pool and hot tub."

    6. Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground

    8 Reviews
    Accord, NY
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 951-4571

    "I definitely recommend trying to get the walk-in (meaning you can't drive to them) sites (8-15) because they're just a little bit more set back and kind of wonderfully wooded all around. 8 & 9 seemed"

    "There are drive-up sites and also walk-in sites. No fire pits at individual campsites, though. Only a group fire pit."

    7. Boulder Point Campground

    2 Reviews
    Pine Bush, NY
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 649-0611

    $78 - $400 / night

    "This property has several sites for you to setup your tent, camper, van, or RV (only small tow behinds or popups, no large RVs) Nearby are wineries to explore. Nice bathrooms and showers!"

    8. Gunx Camping on a Horse Farm

    3 Reviews
    Kerhonkson, NY
    8 miles
    Website

    $25 - $100 / night

    "Best views around and close to the horses! Second night we got a special site with an amazing fire-pit. Last night was cool amongst the pine trees, a fire pit and epic views.  "

    "But the location is great for accessing the Shawamhunks. Given the lack of affordable RV campgrounds (and even the few expensive ones) in the area, this stands out."

    9. Woodland Valley Campground — DEC

    29 Reviews
    Phoenicia, NY
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 688-7647

    $20 / night

    "water to play in right behind tent. I do prefer fire pits over the brick stove. this had the stove. more advanced hiking in walking distance. no cell service. my gps on phone was able to track though."

    "Close to Woodstock, NY, many trails and other attractions. You need to plan for it, there's a lot to explore; some trails are challenging. "

    10. Skyway Camping Resort

    2 Reviews
    Woodridge, NY
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 253-5023
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Recent Reviews near Cragsmoor, NY

876 Reviews of 202 Cragsmoor Campgrounds


  • M
    Oct. 26, 2025

    North-South Lake Campground

    Beautiful grounds HORRIBLE STAFF

    I don’t normally write reviews especially a negative one. We had a very upsetting experience at North-South Lake. We drove over two hours to visit my husband’s childhood campground for the first time with our three kids(ages 5, 7, and 9). When we arrived at the entrance, we were asked if it was a day visit, and we said yes, we were only staying for the day. We paid the fee, received a map, and drove in. My husband was so excited to finally share this place and create memories with our children. Looking for a place to park, we thought we were lucky to find an empty campsite in one of the loops where he used to camp as a child.

    We parked the car hoping to enjoy the view of the lake, take a walk, and maybe make the kids a couple of s’mores before heading home.

     At around 2:15–2:30 p.m., the “SUPERVISOR” in the white Kia approached us in an extremely rude and nasty manner, speaking as if we were committing a serious crime and comparing our situation to“sleeping in someone else’s hotel room.” She asked us if we had a reservation; we said no. She said,“Someone else reserved this spot.” We were very apologetic, embarrassed, and immediately put our stuff in the car. I said they could have told us; we would have moved right away. I’m sorry. 

    She said,“They aren’t supposed to talk to you; that’s why they send me here.” She told us we had ten minutes to leave, waited there while we put our chair, blanket, and s’more cookies in the car, and refused our 9-year-old daughter access to the bathroom while we packed up our three things, and even followed us out of the loop to make sure we didn’t park elsewhere. My daughter came to us crying because the lady told her she couldn’t use the bathroom and had to get in the car. Well, she had an accident in the car right as we were pulling out. 

    We were mortified and apologetic. My husband even offered to leave the firewood we had just purchased for the next campers, but she was dismissive and harsh about that as well. 

    The following day, I called and asked to speak with a manager to explain how we were treated. The manager was just as unfriendly and miserable sounding as the supervisor. I was told they had been looking for us“for hours” and that it’s“common sense” not to park in a campsite. She actually said it’s considered trespassing. So, a friendly warning for first-time visitors: Apparently, if you don’t know that“day use” doesn’t mean“park in any empty campsite,” just for the day, you’re officially a trespassing criminal, at least according to the manager. 

    Reading the website now, I see that check-in for people with reservations is at 2 p.m., which was the time we were trying to make a small fire, so unless someone left their site and returned, it’s unclear how they could have been looking for us“for hours.” We were right there at 2pm. 

    The website also states: Day Use• Anyone who is not camping is a day-user. Day-use hours are from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Day-users are not allowed between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. 

    We were not camping but didn’t realize we couldn’t park in an empty campsite. I think“common sense” would be to inform DAY USE visitors at the ENTRANCE to use public parking, especially for families or first-time visitors who may not be camping experts. Bottom line: this was my husband’s childhood family spot. We just wanted to take a beautiful fall drive and have a special day with our kids. 

    We understand now that we needed to reserve the parking spot ahead of time, and it was an honest misunderstanding. I would have even offered to pay for the campers’ stay for their trouble. What we wish for is that the staff had approached us respectfully and explained the situation instead of treating us like criminals. Imagine being such a miserable person and working in such a BEAUTIFUL and peaceful place for families. 

    This was meant to be a special family day, honoring memories of my father-in-law and creating new ones with our children. Instead, it became stressful and humiliating. Sadly, this is what our children will remember about the day and about North South Lake

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Gunx Camping on a Horse Farm

    No Amenities but Great Location for the Gunks

    This campground is just mowed spots on a hillside in Kerhonkson. There are no facilities aside from some port-o-sans that the owners didn't recommend using. But the location is great for accessing the Shawamhunks. Given the lack of affordable RV campgrounds (and even the few expensive ones) in the area, this stands out.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Ten Mile River Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Not a public campground!

    Ten Mile River Shelter and campsite is not a public campground. Sure, anyone can camp there, but it is designated for folks hiking the A.T., whether thru-hikers, section hikers, or whatever. While there are no rules about who can camp there, during thru-hiking season, consideration should be made for folks who rely on places like this during a long distance hike. It is at least a mile if not a mile and a half from approved parking (on the side of the road off the A.T.) to camp, either from the A.T. or a combo of the A.T. and a blue blaze trail (which is easier, imo). There are also no fires allowed on the CT A.T.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Osa Trail

    Gorgeous Views

    Had a great time here with my wife and 2 little kids and our dog.  One of the most beautiful sunrises we've ever seen!  Very secluded, though Alex is right down the driveway so didn't feel like the middle of nowhere.

  • Erin N.
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Tri-State RV Park

    Friendly Owners and Reasonable rates

    We just stayed the night last minute. We hit unexpected traffic on the way and the owners were kind enough to wait for us to check in. The sites aren’t anything glamorous but the hookups are great and easy to pull through. It is by the highway so it can be loud at times but I don’t mind. Beautiful river on the property. Bathroom and showers were clean and well stocked.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Mills Norrie State Park Campground

    Great staff but back-to-back campsite

    We stayed a coupe of days in Oct. This is a beautiful site to camp out. The staffs are friendly and very attentive.
    Bathroom and water pressure was ok. But one shower location for 50 campsites. Three small showers units and three toilet.
    I never stayed a state campsite where the sites are so close each other. If you like a “normal” distance to your neighbors, I'd not recommend this place.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 10, 2025

    New York City North-Newburgh KOA

    Good amenities and fun experience!

    Campsites Great campsites, wooded and cozy, though a little tight for longer rigs as our neighbors found out when they ran over a wooden post backing in. But spaced apart nicely with lots of vegetation between. Nice and level. Amenities Bathrooms are older and need of some repair but let me tell you I was very happy to see a normal shower head with real hot water! So no complaints here. Laundry facilities were clean and open 24/7 with reasonable prices 2.50/2.00 washer/dryer. And the dryers actually worked. Small dog park, communal spaces, and a camp store all made the place feel like a little village. They even have a wine store- cab sav was good. WiFi I work remotely and WiFi is always an issue. We have Starlink but in a wooded campsite, connecting is an issue but luckily their WiFi was great. Had no issues and could stream just fine. Halloween! We visited mid October and folks had sites decorated and the KOA has trick or treating and other activities every weekend in Oct. we were SO bummed to be leaving on a Friday and miss the festivities because it looked really fun. Would definitely go back. Also, staff was super nice.

  • A
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Russell Brook Campsites

    Clean, Friendly, and Right on the Water

    Loved this place! It's clean and well-maintained - even the restrooms. Every site is well-equipped with its own water, electricity, fire pit, and picnic table. The best part is the waterfront sites. We were right next to a small brook, and falling asleep to the sound of the water behind our tent was amazing. Everyone we met was super friendly. We will definitely be back!

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Brookside Campground

    Not a recreational campsite

    Full disclosure, we did not stay here. PLEASE, folks that leave reviews on this app, PLEASE say whether it’s a full-timer campsite or a recreational campsite. We paid for two weeks in advance of arriving at this site based on reviews available on Google and Dyrt. However, when we arrived we were surprised that this was mostly a trailer park. Call me picky, but I really prefer not to camp in an area where folks are living full time. Just not the vibe I’m going for. We decided to leave without staying. We called to see if we could get a refund and they were very kind and it wasn’t a problem. But just be warned… this is not a recreational campsite.


Guide to Cragsmoor

Camping options abound within the Shawangunk Mountains area surrounding Cragsmoor, New York, featuring several established campgrounds with varying amenities. Jellystone Park in Gardiner offers family-friendly accommodations including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping options approximately 5 miles southwest of Cragsmoor. The Thousand Trails Rondout Valley campground in Accord provides similar amenities with electricity, water hookups, and shower facilities. Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground caters specifically to tent campers with more primitive facilities including toilets and picnic tables. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from April or May through October or November, with limited winter camping availability.

Many campgrounds in the region require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holiday periods. The local terrain features wooded settings with varied elevation, offering both sunny and shaded sites depending on the specific campground. As one camper noted about Winding Hills Park, "Large private sites, some with electricity, clean bath house, hot showers in a quiet and wooded campground. We slept like rocks!" Water quality varies between locations, with some visitors mentioning sulfur odors in tap water. Access roads are generally well-maintained for standard vehicles, though some smaller private campgrounds may have narrower access points. Cell phone coverage can be spotty throughout the region, with better service reported at campgrounds closer to towns.

The Shawangunk Ridge area attracts climbers and hikers who appreciate campgrounds like Gunx Camping on a Horse Farm for its proximity to outdoor recreation. A visitor mentioned, "Private campsites accessible by car. Stunning mountain views. Farm stand on property." Family-oriented campgrounds like Jellystone Park at Birchwood Acres feature extensive amenities including pools, water slides, and organized activities. Several campgrounds provide fire rings and picnic tables at each site, though some have strict quiet hours enforcement. Boulder Point Campground receives praise for its primitive setting while still offering necessities like toilets and drinking water. The camping season generally runs from mid-spring through mid-fall, with most facilities closing for winter. Weekday visits typically offer more solitude and site availability than busy summer weekends when reservations are strongly recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Cragsmoor, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Cragsmoor, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 202 campgrounds and RV parks near Cragsmoor, NY and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Cragsmoor, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cragsmoor, NY is Jellystone Park Gardiner with a 4.3-star rating from 32 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cragsmoor, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Cragsmoor, NY.

What parks are near Cragsmoor, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Cragsmoor, NY that allow camping, notably Upper Delaware National Scenic and Recreation River and Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.