Tent campsites near Kerhonkson, New York range in elevation from approximately 700 to 2,200 feet above sea level in the Hudson Valley region. The camping season typically extends from April through late October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during days and 55-65°F at night. Winter camping is limited by snowfall that averages 50 inches annually in this part of the Catskills.
What to do
Trail connections: Alder Lake offers direct access to multi-use trails through the Catskill Forest Preserve. "The hike around the lake is a lovely, easy walk. The hike trail that connects to the far end of the lake is 6+ miles and while there were no real views, it was lovely," notes one camper at Alder lake.
Swimming at natural pools: The Peekamoose Valley area offers swimming opportunities with river access. "At night, the only noise you'll hear is from the river and animals in the forest which is of course an added benefit! In the morning we went hiking, and there are lots of cool hikes close by to do so," reports one visitor who camped in the Upper Field area.
Rock climbing and bouldering: Gardiner provides access to world-class climbing routes. One camper noted, "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
Privacy between sites: Many tent campsites near Kerhonkson feature natural separation. At Giant Ledge Primitive Camp, a reviewer shared: "Even the rain couldn't ruin this weekend getaway. The spring water source is a short hike back from the campsite, relatively convenient to restock from camp."
Cost-effective options: Free camping can be found at several locations. "This is a very nice modern campground with great access to amazing hiking and climbing in the area! About half the sites are walk-in and half the sites are drive-up," reports a camper who appreciated the value despite noting "A bit expensive without the AAC or Mohonk membership."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain skies allow for excellent night sky viewing. "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," shares an enthusiastic camper who visited Giant Ledge.
What you should know
Bear activity requirements: Proper food storage is mandatory at many sites. At Slide Mountain Wilderness Roadside Campsite, a visitor observed: "The sites were very clean and quiet, though you will hear occasional cars driving by... There are a couple trailheads 5-10 minutes west down the road, Slide Mtn and Panther Mtn."
Limited facilities: Most primitive sites have minimal amenities. "This isn't a fancy campsite and has no amenities. There is a small(10 car) parking lot and a trail that runs thru 80 acres of forest. Camping is allowed anywhere 150ft from the trail. Normal LNT rules apply. Bugs are relentless," warns a camper about dispersed options.
Reservation requirements: Booking policies vary significantly between sites. "This campground was extremely manicured. There is no eating at the campsite, they would prefer you cook and eat by the showers, the lights go off at a certain time," explains a camper about one of the more established grounds.
Tips for camping with families
Choose more developed grounds: Families often prefer sites with amenities. "This is a very nice modern campground with great access to amazing hiking and climbing in the area! Communal fire pit and supplied wood. Covered communal pavilion with picnic tables, big sinks for washing dishes, and lighting (which shuts off at 9:47PM)," notes a visitor at one campground.
Scout level ground: Find sites with flat areas for setting up family tents. At Upper Esopus Creekside Camp, "Ashley here with The Dyrt. Where do I start? This property is the closest private property to Slide Mountain. It's also just minute from so many other trailheads and peaks."
Check road access: Some camping areas require rough drives. "The place is pretty easy to access with paved road the whole way there except for the last 1/2 mile where it is very bumpy. Some might say 4*4 but we made it just fine in our little Camry," shares a camper who visited Alder Lake.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent campsites near Kerhonkson have few or no RV amenities. At Creek View Campground, a visitor explained: "If the AAC gunks campsite is full, this is unfortunately your best option if you want to camp near the gunks. you are about a 20 minute drive to the gunks from here."
Size restrictions: Large rigs won't fit at most area campgrounds. "This isn't a fancy campsite and has no amenities. Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks," notes a camper about one of the dispersed options that allows limited vehicle access.
Plan for primitive conditions: Most RV sites lack full hookups. "Low-frills. if you are a tent camper who gets excited about an electrical outlet sticking up out of the ground here and there, the possible chance of a picnic table, fire ring, the existence of running water, a toilet, and consider a shower room a bonus, this is the campground for you," explains a Creek View Campground visitor.
