180 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds surrounding New Kingston in New York's Catskill region provide a range of accommodations from primitive tent sites to full-service RV facilities. Little Pond Campground offers 67 tent and trailer sites plus 8 remote tent sites around a 13-acre pond, while Woodland Valley Campground provides more secluded sites with stream access. Several locations throughout the area feature mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping, with options like Kenneth L. Wilson Campground offering lakeside sites and hiking trails. Public lands in the Catskills support primitive camping with varying levels of amenities, from established campgrounds with electric hookups to more remote backcountry sites.
Seasonal considerations heavily influence camping experiences in the region, with most established campgrounds operating from mid-May through early October. Winter conditions make many forest roads impassable, while spring brings muddy conditions that can limit access. Elevation differences create noticeable temperature variations, particularly at higher campsites in the mountains. Advance reservations are recommended for weekend stays at developed campgrounds, especially during summer and fall foliage season. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most campgrounds in the area, with several reviews noting complete disconnection from service. A review noted, "NO cell service, most campsite are very close together so not much privacy. Dead end road so virtually no road traffic at all."
Campers consistently highlight water features as key attractions in the area. Sites adjacent to creeks, ponds, and lakes receive particularly positive feedback, with some offering direct water access from campsites. Alder Lake receives high ratings for its spacious, private sites and natural setting, with one camper commenting, "The campsites are very spacious with lots of room between you and other campers, and have a fire pit and some have picnic tables." Proximity to hiking trails is another significant draw, with many campgrounds providing direct access to the extensive trail networks throughout the Catskill Forest Preserve. The region's mixed forests create well-shaded sites in summer, though some campgrounds have limited privacy between sites. Bear activity is common throughout the region, with proper food storage required at all campsites.
"Pros: Near wonderful, little-used hiking trails - challenging ones, too!
- Close to Catskill town options to explore, e.g."
"You can see a picture here of the water just a 10 foot trail away from our campsite. All in all a great trip."
from $22 / night
Check Availability"water to play in right behind tent. I do prefer fire pits over the brick stove. this had the stove. more advanced hiking in walking distance. no cell service. my gps on phone was able to track though."
"Close to Woodstock, NY, many trails and other attractions. You need to plan for it, there's a lot to explore; some trails are challenging. "
from $20 / night
Check Availability"There are two campsites located right outside of the park where you can park your car next to your tent but we opted to hike in."
"There are several beautiful, secluded hike-in sites along the lake which I would love to return to someday. The hike around the lake is a lovely, easy walk."
"Our site was on top of the creek, close to the path down to the water and close to a hiking trail. During our visit we drove around the nearby towns and didn't find much to see or do with our time."
"We had reservations about being side by side with other RVs but the site we were in was so big and being in a valley with huge trees all around a large open grassy area in the middle made everything feel"
"This campground is nestled in the Catskills, New York, with easy access to New Jersey and Connecticut."
"Access to fresh water spouts and clean bathrooms were just a walk away from most sites, theres a beautiful pond on site and beautiful views of the Catskills, Woodstock is a 15 min drive if you’re looking"
from $22 / night
Check Availability"You will see a yellow little circle sign on a tree with a tent on it, a short distance down that side trail there is the site. It has rock benches and a fire pit. Primitive."
"However the descriptions of this place in reviews here and elsewhere provided very little info and once I got out to the trail realized how different it was to what I expected."
"Our first campground was in New York Aug 8th. Unfortunately, Debbie was socking New York hard. North South Lake Campground in the Catskills was our camping home."
"This is a truly beautiful and scenic campground, easily one of the best places we have visited in New York State."
from $22 - $44 / night
Check Availability"This campground was so pleasant, very clean and quiet, I loved how close the river was to our campground, only a few steps away."
"Bathrooms were very cleaned and everybody respected COVID-related social distancing. Would come again!"
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Went here with some friends who had never been outside NYC before. They were absolutely blown away. For me, it was a nice site but not exceptional. Bring or rent a kayak!"
"I drove to NYC for a business trip and ended up driving 1 and a half hour to reach this place. I always carry a tent in the back of my trunk and decided to go camping."
from $18 - $40 / night
Check Availability"This was a great campground and I am sure they do even more when social distancing is not required."
"The tone of the place is set when you drive in (although we drove past it). Everyone, staff and campers are friendly respectful even the kids!"
GuideStayed at lot #71, loop B! It’s across from the bathrooms, behind there’s a trail that takes you to the lake (about a 5 min walk). No electric, water, or dump station. Firewood is near the entrance, they give you a burlap sack to fill up with!
TravelerWe were looking for a campsite on our way up north and we’re so happy to find this one. While it is a commercial site. It is located in the woods. It has full hook up and portable water at the site. We couldn’t be happier with a warm welcome we received late at night and the cleanliness of the bathrooms and each site. I would highly recommend this campsite.
TravelerThis was the sweetest campground around!! They deliver fire wood right to your site along with anything else you need. Free delivery of amazing pizza on Friday nights(delivered by a 1969 pink beetle!!). There is a giant river, a dog park and the camp ground is close to town, but far enough away so that you still feel like your camping! Amazing bathroom/shower facilities and a clean swimming pool:)
LegendExcellent campground! The forest is beautiful, the Hudson River is super close, there are great trails, and the surrounding area is beautiful. Sites are electric only, so make sure your water pump is working and fresh water tank is full. There are spigots for filling and a nice dump station. The player is excellent. I don't think tetn camping here would be great because the tent sites are closer together and there are trains that pass regularly. We couldn't hear the trains in our camper and our site was large and private with great Forest and hammock trees. The mansion tours at Vanderbilt and Mills were awesome!
TravelerPeople are super friendly and helpful. Campground is well maintained and very secure. RV site was very large and mostly level. Good location. Close to Hudson River and Albany.
GuideStayed for 2 nights in June and it was delightful. Facilities were very clean, had flush toilets and showers, and the trails around the pond were great for my dog. Sites were well maintained, but a little close together for my preference. We stayed at site 146. Would definitely come back and hope to get a site along the pond next time!
ScoutGilbert Lake State Park is located about 11 miles north of Oneonta, New York. I have camped here for a number of summers at their Hilltop Section, never dissapointed. There are a few trails that traverse the park for a few miles that are always green and shady. The lake offers swimming and kayaking. There is a concession stand and even a small museum that chronicles the efforts of the national CCC program under Roosevelt that constructed the park in the 1930's. After a long day of hiking, the campgrounds hot showers offer a great reprieve.
ScoutNow that All Star Baseball purchased this Oneonta campground this year, don't expect to stay here if you are not a baseball family. I went there in person yesterday for two nights at their"primitive" tent sites. After Hanna checked her computer, my dates were all cleared...great, then let me pay the $70... but no... she had to check with management first. I thought that was strange since that never happened to me before when getting any campsites elsewhere. I was told I'd be called later that day but nobody called me. I went back the next day only to be told all sites for the summer were rented out. Clearly that was not true based on her computer check the day before. BOTTOMLINE: if you are not a baseball family spending $1000's here, don't expect to even get the time of day. Therefore, they do not deserve anyone's business.
GuideSpent one night here. The park is quiet. The facilities are a little outdated, although they said that newer ones had been built by the marina. I wasn’t up for the 15 minute walk, having just hiked up a mountain. My spot included electrical and water hook ups.
Camping spots near New Kingston, New York range from primitive backcountry sites to family-friendly established campgrounds across elevations from 1,200 to 3,500 feet. The Catskill region has significant temperature variations between valley and mountain sites, with mountaintop locations typically 10-15°F cooler than valley campgrounds. Most primitive camping areas don't provide trash collection, requiring campers to pack out all waste.
Hiking to mountain fire towers: Several campgrounds provide access to historic fire tower hikes. At Bear Spring Mountain — DEC, visitors can combine camping with hiking. "There is a hiking loop that goes around the pond. Highly recommended if you like hiking. Great flowers and nature," notes J G. Some trails connect to more challenging routes.
Kayaking on wilderness lakes: Multiple camping locations offer paddling opportunities on small mountain lakes. "Got a kayak for the day and it was a great rate. Saw beavers and eagles," writes Lauren S. about her experience at Little Pond Campground. The rental options save visitors from transporting their own equipment.
Fishing in mountain streams: The region's cold-water streams support trout fishing. "Nice quiet campgrounds close to the Beaver kill and great service staff was supper friendly and helpful," mentions Kipa S. about Little Pond's proximity to fishing areas. Several campgrounds are situated directly on streams with fishing access from campsites.
Creek exploration: Many campsites back directly onto mountain streams. "The mountain creek is like nature singing a lullaby - sleeping next to it was very relaxing," shares John N. about Woodland Valley Campground. Several sites feature shallow areas where children can safely wade during summer months.
Private walk-in sites: Several campgrounds offer more secluded options for those willing to carry gear. "We had a walk in site and it was fantastic! Right on the water and pretty private. Each walk in site has its own bear box and outhouse," reports Lauren S. about Little Pond. Some walk-in sites require only short distances from parking areas.
Waterfront camping: Sites adjacent to lakes and streams are consistently popular. At Alder Lake, "There are several beautiful, secluded hike-in sites along the lake which I would love to return to someday. The hike around the lake is a lovely, easy walk," explains Erik C. Many waterfront sites provide direct water access from campsites.
Clean facilities: Even at more rustic campgrounds, bathroom maintenance receives attention. At Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground, "The bathrooms were very clean and new and the showers were free and temperature controlled to perfectly warm!!" reports Melanie H. Most established campgrounds provide shower facilities, though primitive sites typically only offer pit toilets.
Star-gazing opportunities: The mountain location creates excellent night sky viewing. "Weather was great and we could see the stars through the canopy - very very enjoyable!" notes John N. about Woodland Valley. Limited light pollution in the area enhances astronomical observation compared to more developed regions.
Bear activity requirements: All camping areas in the region have bear populations requiring proper food storage. "There are bears and if you leave food out you will get a warning notice if seen," reports Phillip L. about Kenneth L Wilson campground. Many established campgrounds provide metal food lockers, while backcountry sites require bear canisters or proper hanging techniques.
Limited or no cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal connectivity. At Little Pond, "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," explains Giselle P. Several campers note complete disconnection from service as a consideration for planning.
Variable campsite sizes: Sites vary significantly in size and privacy. At Beaverkill Campground, "My only complaint would be the size of each campsite. Some are larger than others but overall most sites are fairly small and there isn't much privacy between them," notes Luke S. Research specific site dimensions when making reservations.
Weather variability: Higher elevation sites can experience rapidly changing conditions. "We got rained out. But it was still an awesome campground," reports Erica H. about Woodland Valley. Temperature drops can be significant after sunset, even in summer months, requiring appropriate clothing and sleeping gear.
Pool access: Some campgrounds offer swimming facilities beyond natural water features. At Crazy Acres Campground at Beaver Spring Lake, families appreciate "plenty of activities, a big lake to fish in and a pool to relax by. Nighttime family fun as well," according to Robert M. Swimming areas typically open Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.
Playground availability: Several campgrounds maintain play areas for children. At Bear Spring Mountain, "Small playground was nice for the kids," notes Becky S. These facilities provide recreation options during downtime between hiking or water activities.
Short nature trails: Many campgrounds include easy walking paths suitable for young hikers. "The hike around the lake is a lovely, easy walk," explains Erik C. about Alder Lake. These trails typically range from 0.5 to 2 miles and offer wildlife viewing opportunities without significant elevation changes.
Site selection for privacy: Families should research specific sites that offer more seclusion. "Site 58 on Loop C... allowed you to be pretty far back from the road for more privacy, but some of the other sites were literally next to the road," advises Katherine P. about Kenneth L Wilson campground. Corner sites and those at the end of loops typically offer more buffer from other campers.
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. At Giant Ledge Primitive Camp, "Was not the easiest for my RV van to get up the hill with the ruts, but I have a small lift so it helps, lower clearance vans might not make it," warns SJ W. Many forest roads remain unpaved with seasonal rutting.
Site leveling requirements: The mountainous terrain creates uneven sites requiring leveling equipment. "The sites were well taken of by other campers and almost look brand new," notes Phillip L. about Kenneth L Wilson, though many sites still require substantial leveling blocks.
Limited hookup availability: Most public campgrounds offer minimal or no hookups. At Woodland Valley, generator use is prohibited, creating challenges for power-dependent RVers. Several private campgrounds provide more extensive hookups but with less natural surroundings.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV sites provide on-site dump stations. For campgrounds without facilities, the nearest dump stations may be 15-20 miles away at larger campgrounds or highway rest areas. Most established campgrounds update their dump station status on reservation websites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any quiet campgrounds near New Kingston?
For a peaceful camping experience near New Kingston, consider Devil's Tombstone Campground, which offers a more simple, back-to-basics camping experience perfect for those seeking tranquility between hikes in the Hunter-West Kill Wilderness. The campground is bisected by Route 214, but it remains relatively quiet. Another serene option is Little Pond Campground, which provides a quiet setting with access to wonderful, little-used hiking trails. The campground is also conveniently located near Catskill town options like Livingston Manor while maintaining its peaceful atmosphere.
Where can I find camping sites near Kingston, NY?
The Catskill region near Kingston offers several excellent camping options. Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground is nestled in the Catskills with easy access to New Jersey and Connecticut, featuring large campsites mostly surrounded by trees for a good balance of privacy and community. Another popular option is Phoenicia Black Bear Campground, located just outside downtown Phoenicia with creek front and wooded campsites, each equipped with a fire ring and picnic tables. Both campgrounds are within reasonable driving distance from Kingston and provide convenient access to the natural beauty and outdoor activities of the Catskill Mountains.
Are there public camping lands available in the New Kingston area?
Yes, the New Kingston area has several public camping options. Bear Spring Mountain — DEC near Downsville offers drive-in access with reservable sites, water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly. For those seeking a more primitive experience, Giant Ledge Primitive Camp provides free camping with hike-in access. The Catskill region is home to numerous Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) campgrounds that provide affordable public camping opportunities with varying levels of amenities. Most public campgrounds in the area require reservations during peak season and have established facilities like fire rings, picnic tables, and access to water.
Where can I camp and fish near New Kingston?
Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds offers excellent fishing opportunities with two private lakes on-site. Visitors can also fish in the nearby river with a New York State fishing license. The campground includes additional amenities like playgrounds, basketball courts, a pool, and a remote control car track. For a more nature-immersed experience, North-South Lake Campground features a huge lake perfect for fishing. The campground is one of the larger public options in New York with well-spaced sites, making it great for families who want to combine camping with fishing activities.
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