Camping options near Denver, New York range from state-managed facilities to private campgrounds with specialized amenities. The Catskill Mountain region surrounding Denver features densely wooded terrain with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates throughout the camping season. Trail accessibility typically improves from late May through October when seasonal moisture levels decrease.
What to do
Hiking with waterfall views: North-South Lake Campground provides access to the viewing platform at Kaaterskill Falls, located minutes from the camping area. "A lot of the hiking nearby is also relatively easy and includes the newly opened (as of 2016) viewing platform for Kaasterskill falls, which is minutes down the road from the campground," notes Jessica W.
Paddle on smaller lakes: Bear Spring Mountain offers kayaking opportunities on its quiet pond. "There is an area for day use where you can rent a paddle boat or kayak to go out on the water. Highly recommended if you like hiking. Great flowers and nature. There is a hiking loop that goes around the pond," writes J G.
Streamside recreation: Betty Brook Camp provides stream access directly from primitive campsites. "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots," explains Robert B., adding that this area remains lightly visited throughout the year with opportunities for solitude.
What campers like
Clean facilities: North-South Lake Campground maintains well-kept amenities that receive positive feedback. "Clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails. perfect Hudson getaway. Reserve very early for waterfront," recommends Rachel G.
Multiple water activities: Swimming options abound at North-South Lake, making it a recurring destination for many visitors. Lizz H. mentions, "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time."
Secluded settings: For those seeking more primitive equestrian camping near Denver, New York, Betty Brook Camp offers remote locations with minimal facilities. "Love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now. Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone," shares Robert B.
What you should know
Seasonality affects crowds: The popularity of certain camping areas means planning ahead, especially for premium sites. "North South lake is one of the larger public camp grounds in New York. The sites are well spaced out. Great for families. The lake is huge. Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds," advises Tara L.
Wildlife considerations: When camping in the Catskills region, proper food storage is essential. At Bear Spring Mountain, campers should "Obey bear rules!" as Amber A. notes while describing the typical state park amenities and wildlife encounters.
Limited amenities at remote sites: Betty Brook Camp provides a primitive experience with minimal facilities. Peter describes it as "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. It's a small town, with just a gas station store."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for various ages: Family-friendly activities center around the water features at several campgrounds. Chris D. shares about North-South Lake: "I'm a native of the Catskills and spent many an afternoon with my family enjoying the facilities at North/South Lake. I've recently started going there again with my own family and it's great to see them take the same enjoyment I did. Camping, swimming, hiking, boating, biking, this place has it all."
Playgrounds and amenities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated facilities for younger visitors. At Bear Spring Mountain, Becky S. mentions that the "Small playground was nice for the kids," though she notes the hiking didn't provide the expansive Catskill views she had hoped for.
Spacious campsites for group activities: Look for campgrounds that accommodate family gatherings with appropriate spacing. "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking," writes Becky G. about North-South Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: When bringing larger rigs, check campsite dimensions carefully. Eliany L. notes about North-South Lake: "This campground has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single. Great place to camp."
Terrain challenges: The mountainous topography affects bike use and RV access. At Bear Spring Mountain, Becky S. found that "Brought bikes but the roads were way too steep," suggesting caution when planning activities with wheeled equipment.
Trailer limitations: Some primitive sites cannot accommodate larger RVs. Peter cautions about Betty Brook Camp: "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small, but it's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done."
Legend
