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.
