Tent camping options near Highland, New York range from established sites with amenities to primitive backcountry areas within the Catskill Mountains region. Located at the eastern edge of the Catskills with elevations reaching 4,180 feet at Slide Mountain, this area provides campers with diverse terrain and varied camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night, with humidity creating occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking in Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Access over 50 miles of trails with terrain suitable for all skill levels from Sam Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground — Minnewaska State Park Preserve. "Both the campsite and hike trail were extremely clean, staff was friendly, and they were continuing to update the paths so you don't get misguided," notes one visitor who completed a 6-mile hike at nearby Sams Point Overlook.
Rock climbing at the Gunks: The Shawangunk Mountains offer world-class climbing routes within a 10-20 minute drive from several campgrounds. "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," explains a camper at Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground.
Swimming in natural water bodies: The region offers several swimming options, including Lake Minnewaska. A camper describes it as "the most acidic lake in New York but completely safe" and "good for skinny dipping and other fun things!" While water quality remains consistent, note that swimming areas can become crowded during summer weekends.
What campers like
Community atmosphere: The campgrounds attract outdoor enthusiasts who create a friendly environment. "There are drive-up sites and also walk-in sites... the climbing community is pretty friendly," explains a visitor to Creek View Campground. Though site spacing can be close, the shared interests in outdoor activities create connections among campers.
Natural surroundings: Campers appreciate the scenic forest settings. At Giant Ledge Primitive Camp, visitors note "breathtaking" views from multiple lookout points. "Best site in Catskills, sunrise and sunset," writes one camper, while another mentions "the spring water source is a short hike back from the campsite, relatively convenient to restock from camp."
Affordable options: Several campgrounds offer free or low-cost sites compared to other regional options. A camper at Creek View notes it's "very affordable for the area. Every now and then, I'd think, there's gotta be a more scenic campground, maybe I should try another one...and all the other ones I'd look up in the area would cost 3x as much."
What you should know
Bear safety precautions: Bear activity exists throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. At Giant Ledge, one camper advises to "bring a bear bell and bear mace can to be safe. We did not see any but definite signs of them." Most designated camping areas provide bear boxes, but wilderness campers should bring bear-resistant containers or plan to hang food.
Primitive facilities at dispersed sites: Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed offers truly rustic camping with minimal infrastructure. "If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it's quiet & off the beaten path." The parking lot accommodates only 4-5 vehicles, requiring early arrival during peak seasons.
Reservation requirements: Many established campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer and fall foliage season. Walk-in availability varies significantly by location, day of week, and season. Holiday weekends typically require reservations 3-6 months in advance for the best tent camping near Highland, New York.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with amenities: The Peekamoose Valley offers sites suitable for families with young children. "We stayed in the middle field. On a Wednesday night in early September I had the whole campground to myself. Quiet, next to a lightly trafficked road. There was a port a potty. Campsites in middle field are just clearings with fire pits and nothing else. Soft ground for staking a tent."
Pack for variable weather: Mountain weather can change rapidly even in summer months. Days can be warm while nights drop into the 50s. A camper at Peekamoose Valley noted: "We stayed here mid-March and although it was a little chilly at night, overall a great spot." Layered clothing and rain gear are essential even during summer camping trips.
Consider site access distance: Some campgrounds require carrying gear from parking areas. At Peekamoose Valley, a camper mentions: "At the middle field, you have to walk 200+ feet from the parking lot to your campsite, so just be prepared to carry your stuff." This becomes important when camping with small children or bringing extensive gear.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options near Highland: The best tent camping near Highland, New York dominates the area, with fewer full-service RV parks. When RV camping is necessary, Echo Lake offers primitive sites that can accommodate smaller rigs. However, a camper notes: "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. The sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees."
Plan for limited hookups: Most campgrounds offering RV access provide minimal or no hookups. Generators may be prohibited, and water/electric connections are rare. Prepare for self-contained camping with full water tanks and charged batteries. Most sites require careful maneuvering on narrow roads with limited turn-around areas.
Consider seasonal road conditions: Mountain roads accessing the best camping areas can become challenging after rain or during early spring. A Giant Ledge visitor cautions: "It is a near vertical hike the first mile with 90% or more being over rock gardens. Not some rocks littering the trail." Access roads to many camping areas share similar terrain challenges for vehicles.
