Best Campgrounds near New Kingston, NY
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.