Camping near Margaretville, New York offers varied terrain from 1,300 to 2,500 feet elevation throughout the Catskill region, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions. Winter temperatures in the higher elevations can drop below freezing even in late spring and early fall. The region encompasses over 700,000 acres of Forest Preserve land with approximately 75 designated primitive camping sites across multiple campgrounds.
What to do
Creek exploration: Woodland Valley Campground provides direct access to mountain streams for wading and photography. The sound of rushing water adds a natural soundtrack to your camping experience. "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," notes camper John N.
Fishing opportunities: The Beaverkill River offers prime trout fishing locations accessible from multiple camping areas. Designated fishing access points are located within walking distance of many campsites. "Nice quiet camping, known for its covered bridge and trout fishing," reports one visitor to Beaverkill Campground.
Hiking to viewpoints: Giant Ledge Primitive Camp offers direct trail access to spectacular Catskill panoramas. The trail climbs approximately 1,000 feet in elevation over 1.6 miles to reach multiple viewing platforms. According to camper Ryan, "It takes the average hiker about an hour ish to get to camp/ledge view. Yes you can camp on top of the mountain. Yes you can star gaze by the views near the camp."
What campers like
Water access sites: Lakefront camping offers direct water access for swimming and paddling. Rental equipment is available at several locations during peak season. At Little Pond Campground, Lauren S. shares that "each walk in site has its own bear box and outhouse. We got a kayak for the day and it was a great rate. Saw beavers and eagles."
Privacy levels: Campsites range from well-spaced drive-up locations to remote walk-in sites offering increased seclusion. "We had a walk in site and it was fantastic! Right on the water and pretty private," notes a visitor to Little Pond. At Peekamoose Valley, a camper adds, "The upper field spots have a little more flat area and were more secluded."
Natural soundscape: Allaben Campground offers free primitive sites with minimal traffic noise. "Very little traffic. Felt safe," reports Tam E. At Woodland Valley, campers appreciate that "at night, the only noise you'll hear is from the river and animals in the forest which is of course an added benefit!"
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have limited or no mobile connectivity. "Cell service is non existent and they have a pay phone near the entrance booth where you can use to make/receive phone calls. It's a 20 min drive back into town to get cell service," reports Giselle P. from Little Pond Campground.
Primitive facilities: Many sites lack modern amenities. "There was a port a potty. Campsites in middle field are just clearings with fire pits and nothing else," explains a camper at Peekamoose Valley.
Bear safety protocols: Kenneth L. Wilson Campground enforces strict food storage rules. "The campground is in bear country so you have to be mindful about leaving food out when you're not at the site or asleep," notes Katherine P. Another visitor warns, "If you leave food out you will get a warning notice if seen."
Reservation timing: For peak summer weekends, reservations at established campgrounds should be made 3-6 months in advance. "For weekends in July and August, sites are often fully booked by early April," according to frequent visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds offer designated swimming areas with varying amenities. At North-South Lake Campground, "The beach area is clean and the water is clear. I was there middle of August and the water was not cold and quite comfortable," reports a visitor.
Bathroom considerations: Facility cleanliness and accessibility varies widely between campgrounds. "The bathrooms were clean and had showers, which we did not expect," notes Brittany W. about North-South Lake. However, at primitive sites, "the ports potties are in the parking lot so it's likely that you won't make the trek up to them," warns a Peekamoose Valley camper.
Space between sites: Family groups should select larger sites with adequate separation. "The sites are large and heavily wooded! Enjoyed our stay even on a busy weekend," notes Kyla B. about Kenneth L. Wilson Campground. At the same location, Katherine P. mentions, "Campsite is flat and packed dirt instead of gravel, which was great."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Upper Esopus Creekside Camp provides limited road access for larger vehicles. "This property is the closest private property to Slide Mountain," according to Ashley F., though RVers should check road conditions before attempting access.
Site size considerations: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. "The sites are on the smaller side and many have slanted entrances," notes a Little Pond camper. At Woodland Valley, visitors warn about "the long, narrow, and winding road" leading to the campground.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds provide limited or no hookups. Generators are restricted at many locations with specific hours of operation. "Check-in was easy, if you bring a pet make sure you have your rabies vaccine info available as they will check," advises Mike C. about documentation requirements.
