The Catskill Mountains area near Lanesville, New York sits at elevations between 1,000-4,000 feet, creating cooler microclimates compared to surrounding regions. Summer temperatures typically range 10-15 degrees below nearby valley areas, with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s even in July. Primitive camping options provide alternatives to established campgrounds, with multiple sites allowing access to hiking trails directly from campsites.
What to do
Fishing at Whip O Will Campsites: The 7-acre lake offers fishing opportunities throughout the camping season. "Loved this campground solely on Internet. Pleasantly surprised that it was more than expected when I arrived. Full facilities and nice fishing pond," notes one visitor to Whip O Will Campsites.
Hiking the Devil's Path: Located near multiple campgrounds, this challenging trail system offers varied terrain for day hikers and backpackers. A visitor to Woodland Valley Campground commented, "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. No/very limited cell service but that's not important."
Swimming at North-South Lake: The twin lakes provide designated swimming areas with lifeguards typically on duty from late June through Labor Day. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," reports one camper about the lake facilities.
Creek exploration: Many campsites offer direct creek access for wading and natural water play. "If you like to camp by water, this is the perfect place for you. It has amazing on the water sites you can camp at, plus a stunning view of the Catskills," notes a visitor about the stream access at Woodland Valley.
What campers like
Creek sounds for sleeping: The natural white noise creates ideal sleeping conditions at streamside sites. A Woodland Valley Campground visitor shared, "The mountain creek is like nature singing a lullaby - sleeping next to it was very relaxing; weather was great and we could see the stars through the canopy - very very enjoyable!"
Secluded primitive camping options: Dispersed sites provide alternatives to established campgrounds. "A great free spot for dispersed camping tucked right off the road. Had a fire pit and picnic table," reports a visitor to Allaben Campground, a primitive camping area.
Pond and lake fishing: Multiple campgrounds feature fishing opportunities without requiring a boat. "Great place to camp. The view from the town to the campground was amazing," states one North-South Lake camper about the fishing access.
Varied hiking difficulty levels: Trails range from family-friendly to challenging mountaineering routes. "The hikes are just easy enough for anyone in the family," explains a Woodland Valley visitor about the accessible trails near that campground.
What you should know
Rocky tent sites: Many campgrounds have hard, rocky soil requiring appropriate sleeping pads. "This campsite is by far my favorite in the Catskills! Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable, bathrooms & beach areas are always clean, & the hiking nearby is fantastic," shared a camper at North-South Lake Campground.
Limited or no cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal to no cellular coverage. "No mobile signal, but that's the point, isn't it? You get to disconnect from it all for a while," notes a Woodland Valley visitor about the communication limitations.
Seasonal weather variations: Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly even in summer. "We got rained out but it was still an awesome campground. Private and just secluded enough. Everyone was friendly. Water to play in right behind tent," reports a Woodland Valley camper.
Toilet facility differences: Campgrounds range from pit toilets to flush toilets depending on location. "Bathrooms were very clean, with flush toilets. Water spouts at every site. Sites were really spacious too," notes a visitor to Whip O Will Campsites about their facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking," mentions a visitor to North-South Lake about its facilities for children.
Swimming options: Lakes provide supervised swimming areas during peak season. One Kenneth L Wilson Campground visitor noted, "They have a lake on site with swimming. We happened to spend the weekend on a day with free canoe/kayak rentals which was great! We had a great time and definitely seemed family friendly."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bear sightings occur frequently but typically remain non-threatening if food storage protocols are followed. "In the morning we woke up to a baby bear walking on our campsite. We kept our distance but that was definitely a thrill," reports a visitor to Phoenicia Black Bear Campground.
Stream play areas: Creek-side camping offers natural play spaces for children. "The creek was perfect for dipping your feet and just hanging out," notes a visitor to Phoenicia Black Bear Campground about the water access.
Tips from RVers
Limited big-rig access: Most campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs but have restrictions for larger vehicles. "Very easy to level and setup on #7. Full connections. Pay showers and laundry onsite. Loved having gated security," reports a visitor to Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds about their RV experience.
Variable hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary significantly between campgrounds. "Rip Van Winkle is a beautiful campground, it's well run, well maintained, and has a lot to do! The campground is centrally located you many things to do," notes a visitor about the RV amenities.
Site leveling challenges: The mountainous terrain creates uneven campsites requiring leveling blocks. "Large campsite, clean facilities, fire pit, friendly and knowledgeable staff," mentions a Woodland Valley visitor about the site conditions.
