The Catskill Mountain region near New Baltimore, New York sits at elevations between 400-1,200 feet, creating varied camping terrain with moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. The area experiences distinct seasons with colorful fall foliage from mid-September through October and spring wildflowers beginning in April. Winter camping options are limited with most sites closing after mid-October.
What to do
Swimming and water recreation: Lake Taghkanic State Park, about 30 minutes from New Baltimore, offers natural lake swimming with rental options. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards/kyacks etc. Worth every penny," notes Mellisa T. about Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: Taconic State Park connects directly to Bash Bish Falls trails. One visitor explains, "There are plenty of hiking trails nearby and of course, trails to Bash Bish Falls which is beautiful. It was low the first time we visited and we were able to make it to the top of the falls to go swimming and the views were incredible." Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park maintains well-marked trails suitable for various skill levels.
Sports and recreation: Multiple campgrounds maintain sports areas for family activities. At Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, Jennie mentions, "They have a pond for swimming and softball field. They allow late check-ins!" Many campgrounds offer organized weekend activities during summer months, with cornhole tournaments and group sports.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Raised tent platforms provide protection from wet ground during rainy conditions. Seth K. from Lake Taghkanic says, "They have both platform and dirt tent sites, all sites come equipped with fire pits. Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the importance of well-maintained bathrooms and showers. According to Amy G. at Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, "We rented a rustic campsite for a long weekend and it was way better than expected. The staff was helpful, the site was pretty and there are so many places to hike and the best of the Berkshires so close by."
Yurt camping options: New Baltimore, New York and surrounding areas offer yurt accommodations for those seeking alternatives to traditional tent camping. October Mountain State Forest Campground has "3 yurts available May-October," according to Cheryl B., who adds, "Every site has a fire pit and a picnic table. Highly recommend staying here if you are in the area!"
What you should know
Uneven terrain: Many campgrounds in the Catskills feature sloped sites. Ray P. notes about Spacious Skies Woodland Hills: "Terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or leave sights are." Another review mentions, "The site I had was steep grade from steps to picnic table. Flat ground area for camper was very narrow."
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate from May through October, with peak season during July and August. Before planning a fall trip to October Mountain State Forest, verify availability as they typically close mid-October.
Noise levels: Brookside Campground gets mixed reviews regarding noise. Yolanda T. states, "Located in the Catskills. This is a family friendly there's bathrooms/showers playground, pool, potable water and a outdoor pavilion. Located near hiking in the Catskills and 15 mins to Woodstock." However, another camper mentioned sites being "pretty closed to the others and so at night it got a bit loud."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Look for campgrounds with organized weekend events. Annmarie S. from Waubeeka Family Campground shares, "They have free paddle board, kayak, pedal boat rentals, and an inflatable water obstacle course. They frequently do large bon fires and music on the weekends."
Swimming options: Pools and lakes provide relief during hot summer days. One visitor to Lake Taghkanic State Park simply stated, "Best swimming experience ever" while another mentioned "a designated swimming area" with "a nice beach" for families.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: For nature-focused families, multiple campgrounds offer wildlife observation. Faith B. at October Mountain notes the "Great tree filled, cozy campground" with "great trail system starts right at the edge of the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request specific sites when possible based on size needs. At Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, Kat shared, "Our site #1A was a quick back in site with full hookups and a perfect view day or night, right on their pond."
Late arrival options: Call ahead for after-hours check-in procedures. Jennie noted Spacious Skies Woodland Hills "allow late check ins!" which can be crucial for RVers traveling long distances.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric and water hookups, but sewer connections are less common. Many sites provide dump stations instead. One reviewer from Taconic State Park mentioned, "There was potable water a short walking distance away as well as flushing toilets."
