Best Campgrounds near Hunter, NY
The Catskill Mountains surrounding Hunter, New York feature a mix of established campgrounds and primitive sites across state forest lands. North-South Lake Campground, located in the eastern Catskills, serves as one of the larger public facilities with tent and RV sites nestled among wooded terrain. Devil's Tombstone Campground provides a more basic camping experience directly in Hunter, while private operations like Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds offer cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping areas. The region includes both drive-in sites with amenities and remote backcountry options accessible by hiking trails.
Camping seasons typically run from mid-May through early October, with most facilities closing after Indigenous Peoples' Day weekend. "North South Lake is one of the larger public camp grounds in New York. The sites are well spaced out. Great for families. The lake is huge," noted one visitor. Many campgrounds require advance reservations through New York State's booking system, particularly during summer weekends and fall foliage season. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with several reviews mentioning complete lack of coverage at Devil's Tombstone and limited connectivity at other locations. The mountainous terrain creates microclimates where weather can change rapidly, and higher elevation campgrounds experience cooler temperatures even during summer months.
Campers consistently mention the proximity to hiking trails as a major advantage of the area's campgrounds. Several sites provide direct access to popular Catskill hiking routes, including the Devil's Path and trails to Kaaterskill Falls. Wildlife sightings, particularly black bears, are relatively common at campgrounds in the region. As one camper reported, "There are bears that visit the campground & one came one of the nights & visited our camping neighbor's site." Campground density varies considerably, with some locations offering spacious, private sites while others place campers in closer proximity. Water features, including lakes, ponds and streams, enhance many camping experiences in the area, though waterfront sites typically book quickly during peak season.
