Camping sites near Long Eddy, New York lie within the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River system, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasonal transitions, with spring snowmelt often raising river levels by 1-3 feet above summer norms. Most campgrounds in this area operate in a limited seasonal window from May through October due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Russell Brook Campsites provides direct access to Russell Brook, a tributary of the Beaverkill River. As one camper noted, "Our site was massive (39) and and direct access to Russell Brook. Couldn't keep my son out of the water." The campground serves as a good base for anglers targeting trout in this renowned fishing region.
Water activities: Tubing, kayaking and canoeing are popular on the Delaware River. According to a visitor at Soaring Eagle Campground, "Nice campground right on the Delaware river great for fisherman, hikers also great for tubing down the Delaware or canoeing." Rental equipment is available at most riverfront campgrounds, with prices ranging from $25-45 per day.
Hiking trails: The western Catskills offer numerous hiking options. A camper at Bear Spring Mountain mentioned, "There is a hiking loop that goes around the pond. Highly recommended if you like hiking. Great flowers and nature." Trails range from easy pond loops suitable for families to more challenging mountain ascents with elevation gains of 500-800 feet.
What campers like
Riverfront sites: Direct water access consistently rates as the most valuable campground feature. At Little Pond Campground, a reviewer appreciated their "Very private and right on the pond. You can see a picture here of the water just a 10 foot trail away from our campsite." Waterfront sites typically book 2-3 months in advance during peak season.
Privacy between sites: The spacing between camping spots varies significantly across the region. A visitor to Skinners Falls Campground highlighted, "This campground was nice they offered river activities (for purchase) tubing, kayaking, rafting. They had a small camp store and friendly staff. The campsites are pretty spacious and lots of community green space in the center of a circular campground."
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower conditions matter greatly to campers. One guest noted about Skinners Falls, "The bath houses were clean but old, they had hot water and plenty of private shower stalls." Facilities are typically basic but functional, with some campgrounds offering hot showers for an additional fee or quarters.
What you should know
Bear activity precautions: All campgrounds in the region require proper food storage. At Little Pond Campground, "Each walk in site has its own bear box and outhouse." Bears are most active during spring and late summer when natural food sources are limited.
Limited or no cell service: Connectivity remains a significant challenge. A camper at Little Pond noted, "There is no cell service as soon as you turn into the park. I didn't even find an area where I could temporarily send and receive messages." Some campgrounds have pay phones, and the town of Roscoe offers reliable service.
Weekend crowds: The area's proximity to New York City (about 2.5 hours) creates significant occupancy fluctuations. One visitor observed at Russell Brook, "Very peaceful. Felt like we had the place to ourselves," while visiting mid-week, suggesting this timing for those seeking quiet.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly water features: Shallow water access points provide safer swimming options. At Peaceful Valley Campsite, riverside spots allow for supervised water play, though one reviewer notes that "Weekdays are quiet, weekends not so much," suggesting timing considerations for family visits.
Playgrounds and activities: Some campgrounds offer structured recreation. At Honesdale-Poconos KOA, a visitor mentioned, "Activities for the kids like movies (it was Moana), a pool, mini golf and a bounce area. We had a fantastic first camping experience for the kids (and dogs)."
Tent site selection: For families with young children, consider campground layout carefully. A visitor to Soaring Eagle noted, "I love the property and the family that operates it. My son had his first camping trip there when he was ten days old. It is great family camp ground with amenities that are helpful to parents and new campers such as restrooms, showers, camp shop, canoe/kayak/tube rentals."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many area campgrounds have limitations on RV size. At Honesdale-Poconos KOA, a reviewer recommended, "Love the KOA patio sites, worth the few extra dollars. Quiet and peaceful mid week." The patio sites accommodate larger RVs up to 40 feet.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in this rural region. At Peaceful Valley, one RVer noted, "Great location with full hook-ups. Nice riverside spots." Electric amperage varies between campgrounds, with most offering 30-amp service and only a few providing 50-amp connections.
Seasonal considerations: RV camping is best from June through September when roads are most passable. Spring visits can encounter mud and difficult access conditions, particularly at campgrounds with unpaved access roads leading to riverside sites.
