The Catskills region near Esopus, New York sits at elevations ranging from 100 to over 1,000 feet, offering varied camping terrain from riverside lowlands to mountain settings. The area typically experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from May through September. Campgrounds in this region often feature wooded sites with natural barriers providing privacy between campers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Interlake RV Park has a dedicated pond for fishing and boat access. "Lots of pretty lots under the shade. Good for Families. Pool. Recreation Barn. Recycling. Some people stay here all summer," notes one camper at Interlake RV Park & Campground.
Hiking trails: The campgrounds near Esopus provide access to numerous hiking options. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot. We had a wonderful weekend there," mentions a visitor to North-South Lake Campground. This campground has access to the Catskill Escarpment trail system.
Water recreation: Many campgrounds feature water access beyond the designated pet areas. "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish," reports a family who stayed at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley. Swimming areas remain popular during summer months with monitored beaches at several locations.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Campers consistently praise the natural setting of many campgrounds. "When i came I was really impressed with the improvements they made here. I haven't came her in 3 years and it looks better than ever. They constructed a really nice fishing pier," reports a visitor to Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground.
Family-friendly amenities: Many locations offer planned activities for children. "This campground is great for kids. It has a event just about every weekend with kid activity," notes a reviewer at Jellystone Park Gardiner, which focuses heavily on children's programming.
Proximity to attractions: The region's campgrounds serve as good base camps for area exploration. "Close to FDR home and library...a must to see. Quaint towns nearby," mentions a camper at Interlake RV Park, highlighting the Hudson Valley's historical sites within 20-30 minutes of many campgrounds.
What you should know
Bear activity: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions throughout the region. "Got chased off by a bear. It was the wildest weekend I ever had, I'm not being sarcastic. The hiking areas are great, the weather is perfect and the bear was very nice for a bear," reports a camper at Kenneth L Wilson Campground, underscoring the importance of proper food storage.
Bathroom facilities vary: Campground bathroom quality differs significantly across locations. "Showers always clean bathrooms also. Group camping sites. Single private sites. R.V. Welcome. Boat access. Marina. Kyack," notes a visitor to Mills Norrie State Park Campground, though facilities at other campgrounds receive mixed reviews.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer and fall foliage seasons. "For hiking in and around the Phoenicia area this place is the BEST! An easy commute to town, and yet secluded and wooded. Will be back many times!" explains a regular visitor to Kenneth L Wilson, which books months in advance during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated children's activities: Several campgrounds offer structured programming. "This is a very nice campground for families. Has a lot of activities and facilities for campers. It is a bit more open and campsite can be a bit close to each other. But the place was very clean a friendly," reports a family that stayed at Jellystone Park Gardiner.
Consider water feature access: Lakes and streams provide natural entertainment. "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking," notes a visitor to North-South Lake Campground, which features two connected lakes with swimming areas.
Evaluate site privacy: Site selection impacts the family camping experience. "Sites were relatively well spaced apart. The campground was well maintained overall," reports a camper at Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, though many note the proximity of sites varies across different campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for size and hookups: RV campers should research specific site dimensions. "The rv/trailer only section is really nice, wooded. Has a classic campground feel," mentions a visitor to New York City North-Newburgh KOA, highlighting the importance of choosing appropriate sites for larger rigs.
Leveling considerations: Many campgrounds in the mountainous Catskills region require leveling equipment. "Easy to level and setup on #7. Full connections. Pay showers and laundry onsite," reports an RVer at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds, one of several pet-friendly camping options near Esopus offering full hookups.
Spacing between RV sites: Site proximity affects the camping experience. "Amazing campground with perfectly spaced large sites. There's a few playgrounds a great pool and a lot of amenities," notes a reviewer at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds, though not all campgrounds offer similar spacing between sites.
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