Best Campgrounds near Durham, NY
The Catskill Mountains surrounding Durham, New York feature a diverse range of camping options within a 30-minute drive. North-South Lake Campground in Haines Falls stands as one of the larger public facilities in the region, offering both tent and RV sites tucked under shady trees with some waterfront locations. Nearby, Devil's Tombstone Campground provides a more basic camping experience for those seeking simplicity between hiking adventures. The area includes everything from full-service RV parks with hookups to primitive tent sites and increasingly popular glamping accommodations like those at Whispering Timbers, which features just two exclusive sites for a more private experience.
Most campgrounds in the Catskills operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with North-South Lake running from May 19 to October 22 and others like Max V. Shaul State Park closing by October 10. Cell service is notably limited throughout the region, with many campers reporting complete disconnection at popular sites. "There is NO cell service and just forget about WiFi. You are unplugged," noted one North-South Lake visitor. Weather can be unpredictable, with summer storms occasionally impacting camping conditions. Black bears are active in the area, requiring proper food storage and awareness, as multiple campers have reported bear sightings near their sites.
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, though these premium sites often require advance booking. Many campgrounds feature direct trail access, with hikers appreciating the convenience of walking directly from their sites to popular trailheads. "Loved that trailheads are walking distance from the sites," mentioned one camper at North-South Lake. Privacy levels vary considerably between campgrounds and specific sites, with some visitors noting proximity to neighbors as a drawback. Family-friendly amenities are common at larger established campgrounds, with one visitor highlighting the "community vibe" and noting that "an ice cream truck comes around each evening in the summer" at North-South Lake, adding to the appeal for families with children.
