Catskill campgrounds near Highmount offer terrain varying from creek-side valleys to mountain settings between 1,500-4,000 feet elevation. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer highs around 80°F and cool nights often dropping to 50°F. Primitive camping opportunities range from remote backcountry sites to free dispersed options with basic amenities.
What to do
Hiking to mountain views: Giant Ledge Primitive Camp provides access to some of the most scenic viewpoints in the Catskills. "There's a couple marked campsites scattered along the trail, we camped at the first one on the way up. Good hike with a bit of a challenge climbing rocks at the end towards the ledge but nothing crazy," notes Emily S. The trail gains approximately 1,000 feet of elevation over 1.5 miles to reach the ledge views.
Creek exploration: The region's waterways offer swimming and cooling opportunities during summer months. At Woodland Valley Campground, campers appreciate the natural water features. "If you like to camp by water, this is the perfect place for you. It has amazing on the water sites you can camp at, plus a stunning view of the Catskills. The hikes are just easy enough for anyone in the family," explains Meike W.
Stargazing: Clear nights at higher elevations provide excellent celestial viewing opportunities. One visitor to Giant Ledge described their experience: "Yes you can camp on top of the mountain. Yes you can make a cap fire. Yes you can star gaze by the views near the camp. Yes it's amazing."
What campers like
Mountain creek soundscape: Natural water features enhance the camping experience at several locations. John N. from Woodland Valley Campground shared: "The mountain creek is like nature singing a lullaby - sleeping next to it was very relaxing; weather was great and we could see the stars through the canopy - very very enjoyable!"
Secluded waterfront sites: Little Pond Campground offers walk-in sites that provide greater privacy. "We had a walk in site and it was fantastic! Right on the water and pretty private. Each walk in site has its own bear box and outhouse. Do recommend bringing something with wheels. It's not too far from the parking lot, but it's far enough to be annoying to carry everything," advises Lauren S.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers can utilize no-cost sites in the region. Allaben Campground provides free dispersed camping with basic amenities. "A great free spot for dispersed camping tucked right off the road. Had a fire pit and picnic table," reports Drew H. The site typically has 5-7 camping spots that fill quickly on summer weekends.
What you should know
Bear activity: Black bears remain active throughout the camping season. Derek W. from Phoenicia Black Bear Campground shared a first-hand experience: "Oh and In the morning we woke up to a baby bear walking on our campsite. We kept our distance but that was definitely a thrill." Proper food storage in bear canisters or vehicles is mandatory at all sites.
No cell service: Most campgrounds in the region have limited or no connectivity. "No mobile signal, but that's the point, isn't it? You get to disconnect from it all for a while," notes John N. about Woodland Valley Campground. Some campgrounds like Kenneth L. Wilson provide payphones for emergency communication.
Weather preparation: Mountain climate brings variable conditions even in summer. Temperatures can drop significantly at night, and afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently between June and August. Campers should pack layered clothing and rain gear regardless of forecast.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds provide dedicated recreation areas for children. At Devil's Tombstone, "There is a playground for kids so you don't have to watch over them while you set up," according to Phillip L. The playground features standard equipment suitable for children aged 4-12.
Gentle hiking options: Kenneth L. Wilson Campground offers family-friendly trail access. "They have a lake on site with swimming. We happened to spend the weekend on a day with free canoe/kayak rentals which was great! We had a great time and definitely seemed family friendly," says Kyla B.
Water-based activities: Several campgrounds feature water recreation suitable for various ages. "If you like to camp by water, this is the perfect place for you. It has amazing on the water sites you can camp at, plus a stunning view of the Catskills. The hikes are just easy enough for anyone in the family," notes a Woodland Valley visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: North-South Lake Campground accommodates various RV sizes but requires advance planning. As one camper notes, "Large campsite, clean facilities, fire pit, friendly and knowledgeable staff." RVs over 25 feet should request specific sites when making reservations.
Limited hookups: Most campgrounds offer only basic electric service. At Kenneth L. Wilson Campground, campers note that sites 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." The campground provides 30-amp service at designated sites.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. At Alder Lake, one RV owner advised: "Was not the easiest for my RV van to get up the hill with the ruts, but I have a small lift so it helps, lower clearance vans might not make it." Most campgrounds provide road condition updates on their reservation websites.
