Cabin camping near Lake Hill, New York provides access to the eastern Catskill Mountains at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers, vibrant autumn foliage, and snowy winters that affect road access to some campgrounds. Most cabin facilities in this area close from November through April due to weather conditions and freezing temperatures.
What to do
Hiking trails: Access to the Devil's Path is convenient from Blue Mountain Reservation. A visitor noted, "This was my first time staying at this campground. I went here with my friend and we were using it as our base camp as we went out in trails in the eastern Catskills notably the Devils Path, echo lake, etc. It's proximity to those trail heads was great and we had perfect weather."
Fishing opportunities: Free access to streams near several campgrounds lets you catch local species. According to a camper at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish." Some campgrounds have dedicated ponds for fishing that don't require state licenses.
Historical sites: FDR National Historic Site is 20-30 minutes from Interlake RV Park & Campground. A visitor reports, "It took me a while to identify a campground that was convenient for exploring the Hyde Park area, in particular the FDR National Historic Site (20-30 minutes away) and the Walkway over the Hudson, but this campground also offers plenty to keep the whole family occupied."
What campers like
Private sites with natural features: Some campgrounds offer creek-side sites with direct water access. At Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds, one camper shared, "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."
Year-round accessibility: While most cabins close seasonally, some campgrounds offer extended seasons. A reviewer at Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground reported, "The campsite was very clean and maintained. We loved the hot showers after a long day of fishing and swimming in the lake. The park offered many activities or just sit around the campsite drinking beers and reminiscing our youth days. We went on weekdays which is not crowded."
Cleanliness of facilities: Many campers highlight the regular maintenance of showers and restrooms. According to a visitor at Mills Norrie State Park Campground, "Showers always clean bathrooms also. Group camping sites. Single private sites. R.V. Welcome. Boat access. Marina. Kyack."
What you should know
Advance booking requirements: Most cabins need reservations 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends. One camper at Mills Norrie State Park Campground mentioned, "We stayed one night in late September without a reservation. Bathhouse is old but was adequate with hot showers. We're from out of state and paid about $23 for a tent site which was reasonable for the facilities."
Site spacing and privacy considerations: Sites vary considerably between campgrounds. A visitor to Mills Norrie noted, "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."
Linen requirements: Nearly all cabin rentals require you bring your own bedding, pillows and towels. One first-time camper at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds shared, "First trip to ease my way into camping!! Plenty of space, your car is right there next to you, and the camp store has every essential you could ever need if you left anything at home or are just stopping by!!"
Tips for camping with families
Check activity schedules: Many campgrounds run seasonal programs. At Jellystone Park Gardiner, a parent noted, "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore. I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there. The campground had a lot of activities but some were repetitive. It looks like Saturdays have the best activities."
Consider site location: Choose sites away from common areas for earlier quiet times. One camper observed, "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."
Pack essential supplies: Bring rain gear regardless of forecast and plan for temperature fluctuations. A camper at Brookside Campground shared, "We stayed here for a few days while on a week long trip. During the heavy rains water flowed down the roads ways due to the clay based soil and looked like it pooled up in places near the tent areas."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Check connection options when booking. One RVer at Rondout Valley mentioned, "Nice, quiet place. Our site was up front and we didn't venture into the park. We did use the laundry room, which needed some updates, especially some lighting."
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment. A reviewer at Blue Mountain noted, "The campsites are nothing special here, they come with a picnic table, fire ring, and charcoal grill. I used the charcoal grill every night to cook our meals so that worked out perfectly."
Security considerations: Several campgrounds offer gated access and staff monitoring. A camper at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds reported, "Very easy to level and setup on #7. Full connections. Pay showers and laundry onsite. Loved having gated security. My husband went on a work trip and left me alone for a few days and we left our rig to take the train into the city for the weekend and we had no problems."
