Best Campgrounds near Lake Katrine, NY

The Catskill region surrounding Lake Katrine, New York provides multiple developed campgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts seeking varied camping experiences. Several established facilities like North-South Lake Campground and Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds offer tent and RV sites with essential amenities. Campers can choose from a range of accommodation options including standard tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals at locations such as Mills Norrie State Park Campground and Interlake RV Park. Most campgrounds in this region maintain operational seasons typically running from May through October, with the majority closing by mid-October before colder weather arrives.

The camping season in the Catskills generally runs from late spring through early fall, with most facilities open from mid-May to early or mid-October. Road access to campgrounds is generally well-maintained, though some areas have narrow roads that may challenge larger recreational vehicles. Many reviews mention tight navigation for big rigs, particularly at certain campgrounds like Rip Van Winkle. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays during peak summer months when campgrounds frequently reach capacity. Most developed campgrounds provide hookups, showers, and restroom facilities, though amenities vary considerably between locations. A camper noted, "We have a large 5th wheel RV, and we were within 2 inches or less of trees on 4 or 5 instances getting in and out of our site, and I had to drive off of the road on several occasions to make it through."

Campground reviews highlight the natural settings and recreational opportunities throughout the region. The eastern Catskills provide scenic backdrops for many camping areas, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and water activities. Several campgrounds feature waterfront locations or proximity to lakes and rivers, adding to their appeal. Family-friendly facilities are common, with many reviews mentioning playgrounds, pools, and organized activities for children. A visitor remarked that Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds has "perfectly spaced large sites" and is "centrally located to many things to do." However, experiences vary considerably between campgrounds, with some reviews mentioning aging facilities or maintenance issues at certain locations. Most reviewers appreciate the wooded, private sites available at campgrounds throughout the region, particularly those offering a balance of natural setting with convenient amenities.

Best Camping Sites Near Lake Katrine, New York (166)

    1. North-South Lake Campground

    44 Reviews
    Palenville, NY
    15 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."

    2. Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground

    23 Reviews
    Shokan, NY
    12 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"

    3. Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds

    16 Reviews
    Saugerties, NY
    7 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."

    4. Mills Norrie State Park Campground

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

    $21 - $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."

    5. Woodland Valley Campground — DEC

    29 Reviews
    Phoenicia, NY
    20 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. "

    6. Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Ancramdale, NY
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 851-3631

    $21 - $195 / night

    "The campground has a lake with boat rentals. Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low."

    "We decided on Lake Taghkanic. Lake Taghkanic State Park was not a long drive from NYC, maybe 2 hours. The campsite was very clean and maintained."

    7. Jellystone Park™ Gardiner

    32 Reviews
    Gardiner, NY
    23 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."

    8. Interlake RV Park & Campground

    5 Reviews
    Rhinebeck, NY
    11 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."

    9. Blue Mountain Reservation

    4 Reviews
    Palenville, NY
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (914) 862-5275

    "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."

    "Nice little campground with lake sites. The Northville Placed Trail comes out in this campground. The showers were clean and plenty of pressure."

    10. Devil's Tombstone Campground

    10 Reviews
    Elka Park, NY
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 688-7160

    $16 / night

    "this is close by to many catskill hiking trails"

    "It was close to trails and town"

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 166 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Lake Katrine, NY

648 Reviews of 166 Lake Katrine 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.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Brookside Campground

    Not a recreational campsite

    Full disclosure, we did not stay here. PLEASE, folks that leave reviews on this app, PLEASE say whether it’s a full-timer campsite or a recreational campsite. We paid for two weeks in advance of arriving at this site based on reviews available on Google and Dyrt. However, when we arrived we were surprised that this was mostly a trailer park. Call me picky, but I really prefer not to camp in an area where folks are living full time. Just not the vibe I’m going for. We decided to leave without staying. We called to see if we could get a refund and they were very kind and it wasn’t a problem. But just be warned… this is not a recreational campsite.


Guide to Lake Katrine

Camping in the eastern Catskills near Lake Katrine offers access to diverse outdoor recreation across several elevation zones. Most campgrounds sit between 600-2,200 feet elevation, creating varied microclimates throughout the camping season. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing as early as mid-October, with summer highs typically reaching 75-85°F during peak camping months.

What to do

Hiking at Kaaterskill Falls: North-South Lake Campground provides easy access to this popular attraction. "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," notes Brittany W.

Swimming in mountain lakes: Many campers enjoy cooling off during summer months. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," shares Lizz H. about North-South Lake Campground.

Creek relaxation: Multiple campgrounds feature water access for cooling off. At Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds, you'll find "Lover's Lane" with adults-only sites. "Super nice being right on the creek--we took our chairs and plopped down in the water," explains Kyla B.

Kayaking and fishing: Several campgrounds provide water access with boat rentals. "We happened to spend the weekend on a day with free canoe/kayak rentals which was great!" recalls Kyla B. about Kenneth L Wilson Campground.

What campers like

Private wooded sites: Many Lake Katrine area campsites offer good separation. "Large and heavily wooded! Enjoyed our stay even on a busy weekend," explains Kyla B. about Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground.

Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained amenities. "The bathrooms were fine. They were clean but sometimes ran out of toilet paper," notes C R. at Kenneth L Wilson Campground.

Wildlife encounters: The forest setting brings opportunities for animal sightings. "It was the wildest weekend I ever had, I'm not being sarcastic. The hiking areas are great, the weather is perfect and the bear was very nice for a bear," shares Kane B.

Spacious camping areas: Many sites offer enough room for groups. "We LOVED our site (site 9). It was absolutely massive! The photo doesn't do it justice. It was set back very far from the main road and was an extremely large site!" writes C R.

What you should know

Strict day-use policies: Rules at some campgrounds prohibit using reserved sites for day visits. At North-South Lake, day-use visitors must use designated areas only.

Limited cell coverage: Many campgrounds have no cellular service. "There was no cell service in the campground," reports C R. about Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.

Weekend crowds: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Always packed, but always beautiful. Awesome access to the Catskill Escaprment trail from here," notes Maribeth W.

Tent site considerations: Some campgrounds have specific tent pad requirements. "Most of the sites are gravel so bring extra pad for the tent," advises Mayra D. about Devil's Tombstone Campground.

Tips for camping with families

Choose campgrounds with activities: Some locations offer extensive programming. At Jellystone Park Gardiner, "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," shares Stephanie H.

Consider cabin options: Several campgrounds offer alternative accommodations. "We stayed in a cabin #1. Clean & had all the amenities but very dated & dark. Could use brighter light bulbs!! Beautiful & quiet. Enjoyed my stay," writes Lisa F. about Interlake RV Park & Campground.

Expect varying bathroom situations: Facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. "The showers were free and temperature controlled to perfectly warm!!" notes Melanie H. at Kenneth L Wilson Campground.

Pack for weather changes: Mountain elevation creates variable conditions. "We took a 3-day weekend tent camping at This site from July 24-26 2020, at site 58 on Loop C. It was almost completely full that weekend, with a bit of coming and going," reports Katherine P.

Tips from RVers

Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have tight turns or limited large spaces. "We have a large 5th wheel RV and we were within 2 inches or less of trees on 4 or 5 instances getting in and out of our site," explains one RVer.

Hookup availability varies: Not all campgrounds offer full services. "Full connections. Pay showers and laundry onsite. Loved having gated security," notes C O. about Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds.

Consider seasonal stays: Some campgrounds accommodate longer-term visitors. "I stayed there for 3 weeks for work it was quite priced very reasonably for full hook up and about a half hour from stunning views," shares David P.

Reserve early for premium sites: The best RV spots book quickly. "For hiking in and around the Phoenicia area this place is the BEST! An easy commute to town, and yet secluded and wooded," notes Maribeth W. about Blue Mountain Reservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Lake Katrine, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, Lake Katrine, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 166 campgrounds and RV parks near Lake Katrine, NY and 13 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Lake Katrine, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lake Katrine, NY is North-South Lake Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 44 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lake Katrine, NY?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 free dispersed camping spots near Lake Katrine, NY.