Best Campgrounds near Gardiner, NY

Gardiner, New York serves as a gateway to diverse camping experiences in the Hudson Valley and Catskill regions. Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground offers tent-only sites with basic amenities including drinking water, showers, and toilets. Jellystone Park Gardiner provides more developed options with cabins, RV hookups, and glamping accommodations. The surrounding area features a mix of established campgrounds catering to different preferences, from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks with water and electric hookups. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally, typically from April through November.

Camping availability throughout the Gardiner area follows seasonal patterns, with most facilities closing during winter months. Jellystone Park operates from April 16 to November 1, while nearby Thousand Trails Rondout Valley in Accord maintains a similar schedule. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer and peak fall foliage season. The region experiences typical Northeast weather patterns with humid summers and cold winters. Many campgrounds provide fire rings and picnic tables, though amenities vary significantly between primitive and developed sites. Cell service can be spotty in more remote areas, especially in the nearby Catskill Mountains. A visitor noted that "the campground was constructed between 1965 and 1968" and that "a time capsule was buried in the campground" to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Forest Preserve.

Several visitors highlighted the region's natural attractions and recreational opportunities. The Shawangunk Mountains (locally known as "the Gunks") provide excellent hiking, rock climbing, and scenic views. Campers at Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground appreciate its proximity to Minnewaska State Park Preserve's extensive trail network. Families often prefer Jellystone Park Gardiner for its water park, playgrounds, and organized activities. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "This campground has been revamped and is better than ever. 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." The region's mixed-use campgrounds balance natural settings with varying levels of amenities, making the area suitable for both wilderness enthusiasts and those seeking more comfortable camping experiences.

Best Camping Sites Near Gardiner, New York (187)

    1. Jellystone Park Gardiner

    32 Reviews
    Gardiner, NY
    1 mile
    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 stayed at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort along the Walllkill River in Gardiner, NY, for a four-night chill-out vacation. We’re so glad we did! "

    2. New York City North-Newburgh KOA

    14 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    4 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."

    3. Thousand Trails Rondout Valley

    13 Reviews
    Accord, NY
    10 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."

    4. Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground

    8 Reviews
    Accord, NY
    6 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."

    5. Mills Norrie State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Staatsburg, NY
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 889-4646

    $17 - $102 / night

    "There are great hiking trails on the Hudson River right outside your campsite. Amenities are the great outdoors and an ancient bath house built during the New Deal in the 1930's."

    "Firewood wasn’t available at the camp, had to drive about a mile to grab some. Close to town so easy to grab needed items."

    6. Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Fishkill, NY
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 225-7207

    $17 / night

    "This park has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean! They even have boat rentals - or you can bring your own boat to launch!"

    "When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot."

    7. Winding Hills Park

    8 Reviews
    Montgomery, NY
    12 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."

    8. Sam Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground — Minnewaska State Park Preserve

    3 Reviews
    Gardiner, NY
    4 miles
    Website

    $20 - $42 / night

    "Most acidic lake in New York but completely safe."

    "It’s got good access to Lake Minnewaska (driving), staff was nice and polite. But I thought the sites were on the smaller side and no fire is allowed."

    9. Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground

    23 Reviews
    Shokan, NY
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 679-7020

    $22 / night

    "This campground is nestled in the Catskills, New York, with easy access to New Jersey and Connecticut."

    "Access to fresh water spouts and clean bathrooms were just a walk away from most sites, theres a beautiful pond on site and beautiful views of the Catskills, Woodstock is a 15 min drive if you’re looking"

    10. Boulder Point Campground

    2 Reviews
    Pine Bush, NY
    10 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!"

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Recent Reviews near Gardiner, NY

810 Reviews of 187 Gardiner 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.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sage's Revine

    Not highest recommended

    There was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs.

  • 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!


Guide to Gardiner

Camping sites near Gardiner, New York offer diverse terrain options across the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountain regions at elevations ranging from 300 to 2,000 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in the region have compacted soil with a mix of wooded and open sites that drain reasonably well after rainfall.

What to do

Hiking the Mohonk Preserve: Access miles of trails directly from Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground where "Love this campground! Have been here several times and have never had a complaint... Located really close to the Gunks for climbing and also some great hikes around the area," according to camper Jackie B.

Visit nearby waterfalls: Within 20 minutes of camping areas, several accessible falls provide recreation opportunities. "We went to see acosting falls one morning but due to the drought it was a trickle instead of a waterfall," notes Stephanie H. about her trip while staying near Gardiner.

Rock climbing: The Shawangunk Mountains offer world-class climbing routes for all skill levels. Cory D. explains that the Samuel F. Pryor campground is "near world class hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, swimming holes and waterfalls" and has "clean, well maintained" facilities.

Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and lakes in the area support various fish species. At Winding Hills Park, "There is a large lake to kayak and fish in. NO SWIMMING. The lake is a nice size and has a trail so you walk the entire length with benches around a good portion to sit and/or fish," explains Amanda B., who notes that "fishing license is required to fish here and they do come around to check licenses."

What campers like

Private wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots with natural screening. At Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground, "Campsite was secluded and quiet. Close to hiking trails and the facilities were in good shape," reports Thomas H., while Katherine P. adds that their site "allowed you to be pretty far back from the road for more privacy."

Well-maintained facilities: Newer bathhouses and clean amenities enhance the camping experience. At Mills Norrie State Park Campground, campers appreciate that "Showers always clean bathrooms also" and note the availability of "Group camping sites" and "Single private sites" according to Frank M.

Communal gathering spaces: Some campgrounds feature central areas for socializing. Samuel F. Pryor III campground has "eliminated fire rings at each site and opted for one, communal fire pit to encourage more social interaction," explains Cory D., adding that "There is a pavilion near the fire ring with sinks and bathrooms with pay showers."

Lake access: Water features provide recreational options at several campgrounds. At Winding Hills Park, Amanda B. notes the "large lake to kayak and fish in" and mentions that "the lake is a nice size and has a trail so you walk the entire length with benches around a good portion to sit and/or fish."

What you should know

Seasonal operation: Most camping facilities close during winter months. At Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, the season runs "Apr 1 - Nov 1" according to the campground information, while Kasey M. notes the property has "a pool, playground, and activities that include bocce ball, shuffleboard, and horseshoes."

Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly across the region. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, Asher K. advises that "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site... I highly recommend this place but check out the sites online to get one that is private."

Wildlife encounters: Bears are active in parts of the region. Kane B. from Kenneth L Wilson Campground candidly shares, "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."

Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, campers should note that "We were assigned our reserved site rather than choosing it," according to Mollie R., who also mentions that it's "A bit expensive without the AAC or Mohonk membership."

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly activities: Jellystone Park Gardiner offers extensive children's programming. "This campground is great for kids. It has a event just about every weekend with kid activity," shares Jennifer I., while Amanda S. adds it has a "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."

Swimming access: Several campgrounds offer lake swimming during summer months. At Jellystone Park, Jody B. appreciates the "Nice. QUIET. Great pool with beverages for the adults..." and notes they're "Making this a yearly trip as well."

Playground facilities: Look for campgrounds with play equipment for different age groups. Stephanie H. observed at Jellystone that "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore. I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there."

Noise considerations: Family-oriented campgrounds may have longer active hours. At Jellystone Park, one reviewer noted that "The kids were around until about 10:30 or so each night. People tend to walk through your campsite constantly. Even adults with their dogs."

Tips from RVers

Hookup variations: Electric service differs between campgrounds. At the New York City North-Newburgh KOA, Jason noted the campground has "sites were a little on the small side and stacked a lil closer than I like, but we had a good time, some beautiful views from some beautiful motorcycle roads."

Access challenges: Some campsites have difficult approaches for larger rigs. April L. shares that at NYC North-Newburgh KOA, "Some sites are hard to get into and others are in more of a large parking lot, but I think that is for workers for local pipeline companies. They have been working on upgrades and adding more patio sites which does improve the place."

Dumping facilities: Note locations with sanitary dump stations. At Winding Hills Park, "There are no spots with sewer hookup but they have a dumping area," according to Valen K., who adds that the campground "is always kept clean and quiet."

Water access points: Plan for water fill locations if full hookups aren't available. Robert M. explains that Thousand Trails Rondout Valley has "Full hookups, tents and cabins to rent" and offers a "service to come to your rig to collect waste if you don't want to move it."

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Gardiner, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Gardiner, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 187 campgrounds and RV parks near Gardiner, NY and 10 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Gardiner, NY?

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

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

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Gardiner, NY.