Riverside camping options near Middletown, New York extend from the Delaware River to the Catskill foothills. The region sits at elevations between 500-1,200 feet with moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, though some like Skyway Camping Resort in Greenfield Park specifically close between October 14 and May 1.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Delaware River offers excellent fishing opportunities at Soaring Eagle Campground, where campers can fish directly from the property. "Located right on the Delaware river great for fisherman, hikers also great for tubing down the Delaware or canoeing," notes Mike S. Sites are positioned near the water for convenient access.
Swimming beaches: Clarence Fahnestock State Park provides a sand beach on Canopus Lake for swimming during summer months. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful," explains Courtney D. The lake offers clear water and sandy shores ideal for families.
Hiking trails: Multiple connected trail systems provide day hiking options directly from campgrounds. "We loved our full hookup site minus the neighbors' weekend ragers. The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish. The nearby towns are adorable and offer shopping, hiking, farms, and more," shares Kasey M. about Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
What campers like
River proximity: Waterfront camping provides both recreation and natural cooling during summer months. "They are also located right on a river that you can easily access by foot. They have a decent laundry facility and full hook ups," notes Brittany V. about Tri-State RV Park. The Delaware River access point offers water activities directly from camp.
Farmland settings: Several campgrounds incorporate working farm elements. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," reports Faith D. about Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort. These agricultural elements provide entertainment for children without requiring additional travel.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds feature wooded buffers between campsites. "All sites were so different. There was a storm the night before our arrival date, all campers were evacuated and they did a fantastic job clearing all the debris and downed trees before our arrival. The camp areas were secluded if you wanted more private camping (also super unique layouts)," says Erinn N. about Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant road noise due to proximity to major highways. "Located just off the highway so lots of vehicle noise 24/7. Sites are on a gravel lot. Restrooms are clean. Not much else to say about this CG, is just a parking lot with hookups," explains Michael H. about Tri-State RV Park.
Seasonal operation schedules: Most campgrounds close entirely during winter months. "Open during the winter. Easy on, easy off. Lots of pull through sites. Next to grocery store. CLEAN bathrooms, showers, laundry. Super nice owners. Perfect for an overnight stop," states BENdejo about Tri-State RV Park, one of the few year-round operations.
Mountain road navigation: Accessing some campgrounds requires careful driving on narrow mountain roads. "I have never had a bad experience in at least 20 trips," reports Nichole P. about Soaring Eagle Campground, though noting the river access requires navigating steep terrain.
Tips for camping with families
Farm animal interactions: Children can interact with animals at select campgrounds. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool. Weekend was busy as usual but during the week it seems to be seasonal that stay," shares Faith D. about Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort.
Swimming options: Different water features appeal to various age groups. "Lots of seasonals and lots of cabins, many RV sites I think all with full hookups. Playground, hayride, animals to feed (goats, chickens, donkey and pony). There were some organized activities which was nice," explains Janelle G. about Pleasant Acres.
Recreation facilities: On-site activities keep children entertained during downtime. "Very nice and clean. Too hot today, will check it out tonight. Nice pool, this is a good family campground for kids. It large with nice size sites," says Ron H. about Skyway Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Utility access challenges: Electric and water hookups vary significantly between parks. "We recently had the pleasure of staying at Mountain Top RV Park and were impressed by the exceptional experience and service provided by the owners. The newly upgraded camp infrastructure elevated the stay, providing amenities for comfort and entertainment. The investment in new 50amp wiring, upgraded sewer systems, and newer water lines provided convenient camping experience," explains Jason G.
Overnight transit options: Several campgrounds cater to RVers passing through rather than destination camping. "This place is unique by location alone! We stopped for two nights on our way to CT. No frills at the site but perfect for the commuting RVers just looking for somewhere safe to sleep for the night," shares Brittany V. about Tri-State RV Park.
Site leveling requirements: Campground terrain varies from flat parking lots to hilly woodland. "Our site was even and easy to level on. Lots of locals and summer residents. Our biggest issue was that they are still training their staff how to deal with families," reports Ian R. about Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, contrasting with many hillside properties in the region.
