The Catskill Mountains surrounding Haines Falls reach elevations around 3,000 feet with a climate characterized by warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Campgrounds in this region sit within dense deciduous forests of maple, oak, and hemlock trees, with many sites featuring rocky terrain requiring careful tent placement. Water access varies significantly between established campgrounds and dispersed options.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Sites at Devil's Tombstone Campground provide direct access to popular Catskill hiking routes. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot. We had a wonderful weekend there. The restrooms were clean and had showers, which we did not expect," notes Brittany W. about the Devil's Tombstone Campground.
Creek swimming and wading: Many visitors prefer the natural water features over designated swimming areas. "We got rained out, but it was still an awesome campground. private and just secluded enough. everyone was friendly. water to play in right behind tent," shares Erica H. from Woodland Valley Campground. The creek provides a less crowded alternative to lake beaches during peak summer months.
Winter activities: Local camping options decrease significantly after mid-October, but winter activities continue. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails remain accessible though facilities close. Areas near Kenneth L Wilson Campground maintain unplowed roads suitable for winter sports from December through March.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: The region offers exceptional privacy compared to many northeastern campgrounds. "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 Kane B. from Kenneth L Wilson Campground.
Creek-side camping spots: Sites positioned along water features rank highest in reviews. "Stayed for a night. We were over in 'Lover's Lane' so it was isolated on a separate loop. Couples only on this loop, no kids! Pricey--$60 a night. But super nice being right on the creek--we took our chairs and plopped down in the water," describes Kyla B. from Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds.
Pet-friendly dispersed options: For campers seeking pet-friendly camping near Haines Falls without designated pet areas, Echo Lake provides alternatives. "This campground was my first backpacking trip and it was perfect! There are tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits and 1 lean-to site at the end of the trail when you first arrive at the lake," explains Kate from Echo Lake. Dogs can roam more freely at these less regulated sites.
What you should know
Bear management requirements: Black bears actively patrol campgrounds seeking food. Proper storage is mandatory, not optional. "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. There are bears and if you leave food out you will get a warning notice if seen," warns phillip L. about Kenneth L Wilson Campground.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal to no connectivity. "There is NO cell service here. You have to drive about 5 minutes towards Hunter to get service. Also, NY has some strict requirements about proof of rabies vaccination for dogs, so make sure to read the requirements," advises Sam L. about Devil's Tombstone Campground.
Strict pet documentation: New York State campgrounds require current rabies vaccination certificates for all pets. Proof must be presented at check-in. This applies to all pet-friendly camping near Haines Falls including county and private campgrounds. Many campgrounds limit pets to specific loops or sites.
Tips for camping with families
Reserve waterfront sites early: The most desirable family locations book 6-9 months in advance. "Amazing campground with perfectly spaced large sites. There's a few playgrounds a great pool and a lot of amenities can't wait to go back," shares Richard V. from Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds.
Playground locations: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas away from water hazards. "The campground has everything that you need: public toilets, showers, public phone, picnic tables, grills, firewood (for sale), dump station. Close to Woodstock, NY, many trails and other attractions," notes John N. from Woodland Valley Campground.
Beginner-friendly sites: First-time campers should consider more developed options. "First trip to ease my way into camping!! Plenty of space, your car is right there next to you, and the camp store has every essential you could ever need if you left anything at home or are just stopping by," says Katie S. about Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Limited 50-amp availability: RV sites with full hookups remain scarce in the Haines Falls area. "We had a 3-day weekend tent camping at this site from July 24-26 2020, at site 58 on Loop C. It was almost completely full that weekend, with a bit of coming and going. Campsites are fairly close together with a variety of levels of privacy. Ours allowed you to be pretty far back from the road for more privacy, but some of the other sites were literally next to the road," reports Katherine P. from Kenneth L Wilson Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites require significant leveling due to the mountainous terrain. Bring extra leveling blocks. Road grades within campgrounds often exceed 8% with tight turns unsuitable for larger rigs.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds provide on-site dumping facilities. Research options before arrival, especially for extended stays or larger tanks. Call ahead to verify seasonal availability as some close earlier than camping areas.
