Campsites near Narrowsburg, New York provide access to the Upper Delaware River region and Catskill foothills between 700-1,200 feet elevation. The area features mixed hardwood forests with hemlock groves along waterways. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with higher humidity from June through August.
What to do
Tubing on the Delaware River: Skinners Falls Campground offers equipment rentals for river adventures. "Beautiful, spacious, waterfront sites available. Lean-to sites also," notes one camper about the Skinners Falls Campground.
Kayak excursions: Access points along the river provide launch sites for paddlers. At Slumberland at the River's Edge, one visitor shared their experience: "Me and two friends do a yearly kayak trip down the Delaware river... We were able to relax on the adirondack chairs on the deck as the sun went down and our fire (wood provided by host) and the porch lights remained glowing."
Off-grid relaxation: Digital detox opportunities exist at several locations without cell service. "The lack of phone service was a blessing in disguise, allowing us to disconnect from technology and truly immerse ourselves in nature," explains a guest at Slumberland at the River's Edge.
Fishing access: Several campgrounds provide direct river access for fishing. The Delaware River contains smallmouth bass, walleye, and trout depending on the season.
What campers like
Lakefront camping: Hickok Brook offers primitive sites near a small lake. "Small, don't blink you'll miss it... Really is a nice quiet place," explains one camper about their experience at this dispersed camping area, adding "Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake."
Clean facilities: Some campgrounds maintain excellent bathroom facilities. At Honesdale - Poconos KOA, a visitor noted: "KOAs are known for being clean and this was no exception. The bathrooms and showers, every time we went in, were spotless."
Family activities: Organized events and facilities for children enhance the camping experience. "The KOA campgrounds are always extremely well maintained with all the amenities we want. Love the KOA patio sites, worth the few extra dollars," shares a camper about Honesdale - Poconos KOA.
Water recreation: Multiple lakes and river access points provide swimming and boating opportunities within 30 minutes of Narrowsburg.
What you should know
Noise levels vary significantly: Some camping areas have minimal noise enforcement. At Kittatinny Campground, one camper warned: "Busy campground no quiet time loud music till 3 in the morning. Very clean, workers very friendly and helpful but after dark no one around."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds near Narrowsburg close between mid-October and late April. Check operating schedules before planning trips outside summer months.
Terrain challenges: Some sites feature uneven or rocky ground. At Hickok Brook, a visitor noted: "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road."
Permit requirements: Dispersed camping on state land requires permits in New York. One Hickok Brook camper explained: "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county."
Tips for camping with families
Activity programming: Look for campgrounds with organized children's events. "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)," shares a visitor to Honesdale - Poconos KOA.
Swimming options: Sites with both lake and pool access provide alternatives. At Keen Lake Resort Campground, a visitor noted: "My kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake."
Pet policies: Many campgrounds welcome pets, but rules vary. A Keen Lake visitor explained: "The grounds are pet friendly which was a huge plus for us... They have a beach for swimming with your dogs."
Weekend crowds: Expect significantly higher visitor numbers Friday through Sunday during summer months, especially at river access points.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations based on proximity to amenities. A camper at Wilsonville Rec Area noted: "Water and electric. RV dump station on site. This is a family campground right in the middle of everything there is to do around the lake and in the area."
Hookup availability: Most developed campgrounds offer electric and water, with fewer providing sewer connections. "Right on Lake Wallenpaupack. Boat slips available if you own a boat. Pretty quiet. Bathrooms old but well kept. Water and electric. No sewer but can get honey wagon," explains a Wilsonville visitor.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges for larger rigs. Check clearances and weight restrictions before arriving, especially at more remote camping areas.
