Best Campgrounds near Hurley, NY

Hurley, New York serves as a gateway to diverse camping experiences in the Catskill Mountains region. Several campgrounds within a 30-mile radius offer accommodations ranging from primitive tent sites to fully developed RV areas with hookups. The Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground provides spacious sites with fire rings and picnic tables, while North-South Lake Campground features lakeside camping with beach access. Both locations accommodate tent and RV camping with varying levels of amenities. Mixed-use campgrounds like Rip Van Winkle and Woodland Valley offer cabin options alongside traditional campsites.

Camping availability in the Catskill region typically runs from mid-May through October, with most facilities closing for winter. A visitor noted, "Sites are well spaced out. Great for families. The lake is huge. Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds." Road access varies significantly, with some campgrounds requiring navigation of narrow mountain roads. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at many locations, particularly in valley areas. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends and holiday periods when campgrounds reach capacity. Most developed campgrounds provide water access, flush toilets, and shower facilities, though amenities may be more limited at state-operated sites compared to private campgrounds.

The natural landscape dominates the camping experience near Hurley. Campers report excellent hiking opportunities directly from many campgrounds, with trailheads to popular Catskill peaks nearby. According to one review, "There are 7 loops. We were in loop 2. Site 85. There are some sites with an incline down to the site. That might give some RVs trouble." Wildlife sightings, including black bears, are common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage at all camping areas. Water features represent a significant draw, with several campgrounds offering pond or lake access for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating. Developed campgrounds typically provide a balance between natural settings and basic comforts, while maintaining enough distance between sites for reasonable privacy. Weekend camping tends to bring more activity and noise, while weekday stays offer a quieter experience.

Best Camping Sites Near Hurley, New York (168)

    1. Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground

    23 Reviews
    Shokan, NY
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 679-7020

    $22 / night

    "This campground is nestled in the Catskills, New York, with easy access to New Jersey and Connecticut."

    "Access to fresh water spouts and clean bathrooms were just a walk away from most sites, theres a beautiful pond on site and beautiful views of the Catskills, Woodstock is a 15 min drive if you’re looking"

    2. Mills Norrie State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Staatsburg, NY
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 889-4646

    $17 - $102 / night

    "There are great hiking trails on the Hudson River right outside your campsite. Amenities are the great outdoors and an ancient bath house built during the New Deal in the 1930's."

    "Firewood wasn’t available at the camp, had to drive about a mile to grab some. Close to town so easy to grab needed items."

    3. North-South Lake Campground

    44 Reviews
    Palenville, NY
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 589-5058

    $22 - $44 / night

    "Our first campground was in New York Aug 8th. Unfortunately, Debbie was socking New York hard. North South Lake Campground in the Catskills was our camping home."

    "Had a great time at this campground- surrounded by many returning campers which gave the whole experience a good community vibe. Ice cream truck comes around each evening in the summer."

    4. Jellystone Park™ Gardiner

    32 Reviews
    Gardiner, NY
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 255-5193

    "With a new check in area, Gardiner has really stepped up. They expanded the pool area to include another pool plus splash area and water slides."

    "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."

    5. Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds

    16 Reviews
    Saugerties, NY
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 246-8334

    "You’ve got fishing either in 2 private lakes or you can fish in the river but to do the river you’ll need a New York State fishing license."

    "I was a little skeptical that we wouldn’t get to choose our site, but you can’t go wrong, they are all wooded, private and well situated. The campground is centrally located you many things to do."

    6. Woodland Valley Campground — DEC

    29 Reviews
    Phoenicia, NY
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 688-7647

    $20 / night

    "water to play in right behind tent. I do prefer fire pits over the brick stove. this had the stove. more advanced hiking in walking distance. no cell service. my gps on phone was able to track though."

    "Close to Woodstock, NY, many trails and other attractions. You need to plan for it, there's a lot to explore; some trails are challenging. "

    7. Thousand Trails Rondout Valley

    13 Reviews
    Accord, NY
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Great place situated in a great area with lots to do all within an hour's drive. Even camping during a pandemic was peaceful & fun!"

    "This is a Thousand trails campground so it was free. I think the regular price is $64. Full hookups, tents and cabins to rent. Pleanty to do in and around campground."

    8. Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground

    8 Reviews
    Accord, NY
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 951-4571

    "I definitely recommend trying to get the walk-in (meaning you can't drive to them) sites (8-15) because they're just a little bit more set back and kind of wonderfully wooded all around. 8 & 9 seemed"

    "There are drive-up sites and also walk-in sites. No fire pits at individual campsites, though. Only a group fire pit."

    9. New York City North-Newburgh KOA

    14 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 564-2836

    "They have the best staff and they are everywhere, if you need someone they are always around and super friendly also."

    "Location- 4 stars- close to NYC but kinda just in the woods and close to homes, not much around. Sites- 4 stars- a real mixed bag- the rv/trailer only section is really nice, wooded."

    10. Interlake RV Park & Campground

    5 Reviews
    Rhinebeck, NY
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 584-3729

    $46 - $60 / night

    "Close to FDR home and library...a must to see. Quaint towns nearby."

    "With that you get free wi-fi, a heated pool, a lake for fishing and boating, a game room and snack bar, movies, other sports, and the security of a gated entrance."

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Recent Reviews near Hurley, NY

660 Reviews of 168 Hurley Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 10, 2025

    Allaben Primitive Campsites

    Pond spot

    Cool spot next to a pond. There are a few others that aren’t next to a pond, and therefore not as cool… but still pretty cool bc it’s free and you can walk up a little to a pond.

  • M
    Oct. 26, 2025

    North-South Lake Campground

    Beautiful grounds HORRIBLE STAFF

    I don’t normally write reviews especially a negative one. We had a very upsetting experience at North-South Lake. We drove over two hours to visit my husband’s childhood campground for the first time with our three kids(ages 5, 7, and 9). When we arrived at the entrance, we were asked if it was a day visit, and we said yes, we were only staying for the day. We paid the fee, received a map, and drove in. My husband was so excited to finally share this place and create memories with our children. Looking for a place to park, we thought we were lucky to find an empty campsite in one of the loops where he used to camp as a child.

    We parked the car hoping to enjoy the view of the lake, take a walk, and maybe make the kids a couple of s’mores before heading home.

     At around 2:15–2:30 p.m., the “SUPERVISOR” in the white Kia approached us in an extremely rude and nasty manner, speaking as if we were committing a serious crime and comparing our situation to“sleeping in someone else’s hotel room.” She asked us if we had a reservation; we said no. She said,“Someone else reserved this spot.” We were very apologetic, embarrassed, and immediately put our stuff in the car. I said they could have told us; we would have moved right away. I’m sorry. 

    She said,“They aren’t supposed to talk to you; that’s why they send me here.” She told us we had ten minutes to leave, waited there while we put our chair, blanket, and s’more cookies in the car, and refused our 9-year-old daughter access to the bathroom while we packed up our three things, and even followed us out of the loop to make sure we didn’t park elsewhere. My daughter came to us crying because the lady told her she couldn’t use the bathroom and had to get in the car. Well, she had an accident in the car right as we were pulling out. 

    We were mortified and apologetic. My husband even offered to leave the firewood we had just purchased for the next campers, but she was dismissive and harsh about that as well. 

    The following day, I called and asked to speak with a manager to explain how we were treated. The manager was just as unfriendly and miserable sounding as the supervisor. I was told they had been looking for us“for hours” and that it’s“common sense” not to park in a campsite. She actually said it’s considered trespassing. So, a friendly warning for first-time visitors: Apparently, if you don’t know that“day use” doesn’t mean“park in any empty campsite,” just for the day, you’re officially a trespassing criminal, at least according to the manager. 

    Reading the website now, I see that check-in for people with reservations is at 2 p.m., which was the time we were trying to make a small fire, so unless someone left their site and returned, it’s unclear how they could have been looking for us“for hours.” We were right there at 2pm. 

    The website also states: Day Use• Anyone who is not camping is a day-user. Day-use hours are from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Day-users are not allowed between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. 

    We were not camping but didn’t realize we couldn’t park in an empty campsite. I think“common sense” would be to inform DAY USE visitors at the ENTRANCE to use public parking, especially for families or first-time visitors who may not be camping experts. Bottom line: this was my husband’s childhood family spot. We just wanted to take a beautiful fall drive and have a special day with our kids. 

    We understand now that we needed to reserve the parking spot ahead of time, and it was an honest misunderstanding. I would have even offered to pay for the campers’ stay for their trouble. What we wish for is that the staff had approached us respectfully and explained the situation instead of treating us like criminals. Imagine being such a miserable person and working in such a BEAUTIFUL and peaceful place for families. 

    This was meant to be a special family day, honoring memories of my father-in-law and creating new ones with our children. Instead, it became stressful and humiliating. Sadly, this is what our children will remember about the day and about North South Lake

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Gunx Camping on a Horse Farm

    No Amenities but Great Location for the Gunks

    This campground is just mowed spots on a hillside in Kerhonkson. There are no facilities aside from some port-o-sans that the owners didn't recommend using. But the location is great for accessing the Shawamhunks. Given the lack of affordable RV campgrounds (and even the few expensive ones) in the area, this stands out.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Ten Mile River Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Not a public campground!

    Ten Mile River Shelter and campsite is not a public campground. Sure, anyone can camp there, but it is designated for folks hiking the A.T., whether thru-hikers, section hikers, or whatever. While there are no rules about who can camp there, during thru-hiking season, consideration should be made for folks who rely on places like this during a long distance hike. It is at least a mile if not a mile and a half from approved parking (on the side of the road off the A.T.) to camp, either from the A.T. or a combo of the A.T. and a blue blaze trail (which is easier, imo). There are also no fires allowed on the CT A.T.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Osa Trail

    Gorgeous Views

    Had a great time here with my wife and 2 little kids and our dog.  One of the most beautiful sunrises we've ever seen!  Very secluded, though Alex is right down the driveway so didn't feel like the middle of nowhere.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sage's Revine

    Not highest recommended

    There was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Mills Norrie State Park Campground

    Great staff but back-to-back campsite

    We stayed a coupe of days in Oct. This is a beautiful site to camp out. The staffs are friendly and very attentive.
    Bathroom and water pressure was ok. But one shower location for 50 campsites. Three small showers units and three toilet.
    I never stayed a state campsite where the sites are so close each other. If you like a “normal” distance to your neighbors, I'd not recommend this place.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 10, 2025

    New York City North-Newburgh KOA

    Good amenities and fun experience!

    Campsites Great campsites, wooded and cozy, though a little tight for longer rigs as our neighbors found out when they ran over a wooden post backing in. But spaced apart nicely with lots of vegetation between. Nice and level. Amenities Bathrooms are older and need of some repair but let me tell you I was very happy to see a normal shower head with real hot water! So no complaints here. Laundry facilities were clean and open 24/7 with reasonable prices 2.50/2.00 washer/dryer. And the dryers actually worked. Small dog park, communal spaces, and a camp store all made the place feel like a little village. They even have a wine store- cab sav was good. WiFi I work remotely and WiFi is always an issue. We have Starlink but in a wooded campsite, connecting is an issue but luckily their WiFi was great. Had no issues and could stream just fine. Halloween! We visited mid October and folks had sites decorated and the KOA has trick or treating and other activities every weekend in Oct. we were SO bummed to be leaving on a Friday and miss the festivities because it looked really fun. Would definitely go back. Also, staff was super nice.

  • A
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Russell Brook Campsites

    Clean, Friendly, and Right on the Water

    Loved this place! It's clean and well-maintained - even the restrooms. Every site is well-equipped with its own water, electricity, fire pit, and picnic table. The best part is the waterfront sites. We were right next to a small brook, and falling asleep to the sound of the water behind our tent was amazing. Everyone we met was super friendly. We will definitely be back!


Guide to Hurley

The Catskill region surrounding Hurley, New York sits at elevations ranging from 200 to 4,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates for camping throughout the season. Temperatures can drop significantly at night even in summer, with 30-degree swings common at higher elevations. The wooded campsites typically remain 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby towns, making it a popular destination for escaping summer heat.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Several lakes in the region offer good fishing without requiring a boat. At North-South Lake Campground, campers can fish in two connected lakes. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," mentions one visitor who enjoys the water access.

Hiking from camp: Many top camping spots near Hurley connect directly to trail systems. At Woodland Valley Campground, you can access the popular Slide Mountain Wilderness. A camper notes, "Large campsite, clean facilities, fire pit, friendly and knowledgeable staff. This is an excellent site if you're looking to explore the Slide Mountain Wilderness and a great place to prep if you're planning to go backpacking as well."

Waterfall exploration: The region contains numerous accessible waterfalls within short driving distance of campgrounds. According to a visitor at North-South Lake Campground, "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."

Rock climbing access: The Shawangunk Mountains offer world-class climbing opportunities. Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground provides the closest legal camping to these formations. A reviewer states, "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."

What campers like

Creek access: Many campsites in the region back up to streams or creeks. At Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds, some sites sit directly on a creek. "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," shares one camper.

Wooded privacy: Most campgrounds maintain natural forest between sites. According to a visitor at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds, "Rip Van Winkle is a beautiful campground, it's well run, well maintained, and has a lot to do! I was a little skeptical that we wouldn't get to choose our site, but you can't go wrong, they are all wooded, private and well situated."

Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the area maintain above-average restroom facilities. At Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground, "The bathrooms were fine. They were clean but sometimes ran out of toilet paper... The fireplaces at each site are cleaned out in between visitors so that was nice."

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best camping spots in Hurley?

The Catskill region near Hurley offers excellent camping options. North-South Lake Campground is one of the larger public campgrounds with well-spaced sites and a huge lake, perfect for families. Another top choice is Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground, nestled in the Catskills with large campsites mostly surrounded by trees, providing a good balance of privacy and community. The campground's location offers easy access to surrounding areas. For those seeking a more unique experience, the Catskills region has several additional options with varying levels of amenities and natural features.

What amenities are available at Hurley campgrounds?

Campgrounds around Hurley offer diverse amenities to suit various camping preferences. Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds features two private lakes for fishing (state license required for river fishing), playgrounds, basketball courts, swimming pool, and a remote control car track. Treetopia Campground provides unique glamping experiences with RV sites and yurts. Other area campgrounds typically include basic facilities like picnic tables, fire rings, and parking at sites. Many have shower facilities (though quality varies), dump stations, and recycling centers. Some offer water recreation options including beaches, boat rentals, and fishing opportunities.

When is the best season to go camping in Hurley?

Late spring through early fall offers the best camping experience around Hurley, with summer being the peak season. May through September provides comfortable temperatures, though early May can still be cool as noted by visitors to Spacious Skies Woodland Hills. For fewer crowds, consider visiting Little Pond Campground during weekdays or avoiding holiday weekends. September is particularly pleasant with mild weather and reduced crowds. Be prepared for occasional rain throughout the season—some campers have experienced heavy rain, particularly in August. Always check weather forecasts before your trip, as Catskill Mountain weather can be variable.