Camping around Gardiner, New York offers easy access to the Shawangunk Ridge system, with elevations reaching 2,000 feet and limestone formations that attract rock climbers year-round. The area experiences relatively mild summers with average temperatures in the 70s-80s°F, while spring and fall camping seasons can see temperature drops into the 40s at night. The region's unique microclimate creates habitat for over 40 rare plant species across its forested terrain.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: Access multiple waterfall trails from Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, which serves as a perfect base for exploring nearby natural features. "Located really close to the Gunks for climbing and also some great hikes around the area," reports Jackie B. The campground keeps things simple with "no fire pits at individual campsites, though. Only a group fire pit."
Rock climbing adventures: The Shawangunk Ridge (locally called "the Gunks") features world-class climbing routes accessible within minutes of camping areas. "People travel from all over the world to rock climb here. Most are experienced climbers and go on their own, but there are guide services in town if you're looking to get into the sport," notes Cory D.
Apple picking excursions: Fall campers can visit nearby orchards within a 15-minute drive of 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. The park's proximity to seasonal attractions makes it ideal for autumn visits.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground offers secluded camping spots with natural buffers between neighbors. "Large and heavily wooded! Enjoyed our stay even on a busy weekend. They have a lake on site with swimming," writes Kyla B. Another camper appreciated the practical layout: "Campsite is flat and packed dirt instead of gravel, which was great. There's a standard picnic table and a decent raised fire pit, and a spigot at our site."
Modern facilities: Some campgrounds prioritize comfort with updated amenities. "The bathrooms were fine. They were clean but sometimes ran out of toilet paper," notes one camper about Kenneth L Wilson. This contrasts with the rustic bathroom facilities mentioned in the existing description about other locations.
Family activities: New York City North-Newburgh KOA provides structured programs for kids throughout the camping season. "I love this campground they have counselors who lead activities with kids in the summer and two pools plus a rock climbing tower, manifold, basketball and a bounce pillow and more... they have rental boats for a lake and fishing at the lake too," shares Amanda S.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Campgrounds in the Gardiner area operate on different schedules, typically running from April through November. At Mills Norrie State Park Campground, campers note the environment changes dramatically throughout the season. "Outdoor lovers dream. Deserted during the week but packed on weekends. Sites are large and spread nicely," Michael G. explains.
Noise considerations: Beyond pet noise mentioned in the existing description, several campgrounds have regular sound patterns to consider. "There was a storm the night before our arrival date, all campers were evacuated and they did a fantastic job clearing all the debris and downed trees before our arrival," shared Erinn N. about Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Varied shower options: Shower facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. Some charge for hot water, as noted at Pryor Campground: "$3 for a 4 minute shower." Others provide free facilities, with temperature control varying widely.
Tips for camping with families
Book sites strategically: When bringing children, location within a campground matters. At Jellystone Park Gardiner, certain areas receive more foot traffic than others. "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," warns Stephanie H.
Plan for weather contingencies: The Gardiner area can experience quick weather changes, especially in spring and fall. Thousand Trails Rondout Valley offers options for different weather conditions. "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish," mentions Kasey M., highlighting natural play areas that work even in variable weather.
Check activity schedules: Many family-oriented campgrounds offer organized programs on specific days. "It looks like Saturdays have the best activities but we were not there on a Saturday," notes a Jellystone Park visitor, suggesting weekend stays maximize programmed entertainment options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs comfortably. "Nice, quiet place. Our site was up front and we didn't venture into the park. We did use the laundry room, which needed some updates, especially some lighting," reports Jason E. about Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
Water and utility connections: RV campers should verify hookup locations before arrival. Some sites have unusual configurations, as one camper discovered: "The sewer connection in 372 ran uphill for me, but my pipe sits very low."
Electrical capacity planning: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Gardiner offer electrical hookups, but capacity varies. Several locations provide 50-amp service for larger rigs, while others limit connections to 30-amp service, requiring power management for multiple appliances.