The Shawangunk Mountains provide a striking backdrop for camping near New Paltz, New York, with elevations reaching up to 2,289 feet at Sam's Point. The area's mixed deciduous forest creates dense shade at most campsites during summer months, while fall brings vibrant foliage displays. Campgrounds in this region typically operate from April through November, with facilities closing during winter due to the area's average 49 inches of annual snowfall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing access, with Winding Hills Park providing multiple options. "There is a large lake to kayak and fish in... The lake is a nice size and has a trail so you walk the entire length with benches around a good portion to sit and/or fish. There is a nice sized pond at the park to fish which also has benches around it," notes Amanda B. at Winding Hills Park.
Rock climbing access: The Shawangunk Gateway Campground serves as a basecamp for climbers. Jackie B. explains, "Located really close to the Gunks for climbing and also some great hikes around the area," while Mollie R. adds it has "great access to amazing hiking and climbing in the area! About half the sites are walk-in and half the sites are drive-up."
Hiking trails and swimming: The Catskill region offers extensive hiking networks with varying difficulty levels. At Woodland Valley Campground, Derek W. mentions it's "an excellent site if you're looking to explore the Slide Mountain Wilderness and a great place to prep if you're planning to go backpacking as well." For swimming options, Lake Minnewaska provides a unique experience as Anthony S. notes it's the "most acidic lake in New York but completely safe."
What campers like
Peaceful water features: Many campgrounds feature streams or lakes that enhance the camping experience. John N. from Woodland Valley Campground describes how "the mountain creek is like nature singing a lullaby - sleeping next to it was very relaxing."
Privacy levels: Site selection matters when seeking seclusion. At Kenneth L Wilson Campground, Katherine P. observed, "Campsites are fairly close together with a variety of levels of privacy. Ours 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."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain good bathroom and shower standards. Laura E. from Winding Hills Park appreciates the "large private sites, some with electricity, clean bath house, hot showers in a quiet and wooded campground," while Melanie H. at Kenneth L Wilson notes, "The bathrooms were very clean and new and the showers were free and temperature controlled to perfectly warm!!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Booking policies vary significantly between campgrounds. Winding Hills Park offers flexibility as "reservations are needed only for major holidays during camping season; Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day," according to Amanda B., who adds that "when not going on a holiday it is first come first serve spots."
Fire restrictions: Some campgrounds have unique fire policies. At Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, Mollie R. points out, "No fire pits at individual campsites, though. Only a group fire pit."
Water quality concerns: Water sources can vary in quality. Laura E. from Winding Hills Park warns, "The water smells a little like sulfur, so you may want to bring your own." This is important to know when planning meals and hydration needs.
Bear presence: Wildlife management is necessary in this region. Katherine P. from Kenneth L Wilson Campground notes, "There's a standard picnic table and a decent raised fire pit, and a spigot at our site... If you leave food out you will get a warning notice if seen."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Family-oriented campgrounds provide structured recreation. At Jellystone Park Gardiner, Jennifer I. mentions it "has a event just about every weekend with kid activity," while Jenna S. confirms it's "a very nice campground for families. Has a lot of activities and facilities for campers."
Swimming options: Water features are important for family enjoyment. Amanda S. from Jellystone Park appreciates their "nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone or they have a 3 ft pool also."
Noise considerations: Selecting the right campsite affects your family's sleep quality. At Kenneth L Wilson Campground, Melanie H. recommends considering your site location as she found the campground "quiet and so nice!! Site 71 was separated a little bit from other sites as you can see on the map which was so nice."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for RVs: Finding level, accessible sites can be challenging. At New York City North-Newburgh KOA, Greg S. notes the campground has "a real mixed bag- the rv/trailer only section is really nice, wooded. Has a classic campground feel. The other tent/cabin side was loud and not private."
Hookup availability: RV-specific amenities vary by campground. April L. provides insight about Newburgh KOA, saying, "Some sites are hard to get into and others are in more of a large parking lot, but I think that is for workers for local pipeline companies. They have been working on upgrades and adding more patio sites which does improve the place."
Access challenges: Some roads and entrances require caution. Kathy L. at Mills Norrie State Park Campground warns that "some have a steep descent off the road, abs there's a lip on the road that can scrape bottom of campers/RVs. This happened to our neighbor and it took out his RV sewer system, which will be not only a hassle but a costly repair."
