Camping sites in the Shawangunk Ridge region of New York range in elevation from 400 to 2,200 feet above sea level, offering varied terrain for pet-friendly camping near New Paltz. This Hudson Valley destination features a temperate climate with distinct seasons, making spring and fall particularly popular for campers. Average summer temperatures hover around 80°F during day and 60°F at night, ideal for tent and RV camping alike.
What to do
Hiking with four-legged friends: Kenneth L Wilson Campground provides access to numerous wooded trails where dogs can join the adventure. As one visitor noted, "Large and heavily wooded! Enjoyed our stay even on a busy weekend. They have a lake on site with swimming. We happened to spend the weekend on a day with free canoe/kayak rentals which was great!"
Fishing opportunities: Winding Hills Park offers multiple fishing spots with benches positioned around the lake and pond. A camper explains, "There is a large lake to kayak and fish in. NO SWIMMING. 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." Remember that fishing licenses are required.
Rock climbing experiences: Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground serves as base camp for world-class climbing. "Love this campground! Have been here several times and have never had a complaint... Located really close to the Gunks for climbing and also some great hikes around the area," writes one climbing enthusiast.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Kenneth L Wilson Campground receives high marks for cleanliness. "The bathrooms were very clean and new and the showers were free and temperature controlled to perfectly warm!! The ladies that run this campground are absolute queens and were so nice and helpful," reports a satisfied camper.
Creek-side camping: Woodland Valley Campground offers sites alongside a mountain stream. One camper shares, "The mountain creek is like nature singing a lullaby - sleeping next to it was very relaxing; weather was great and we could see the stars through the canopy - very very enjoyable!"
Bear safety measures: Campsites at Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground include bear boxes for food storage. A visitor observed, "A 'comfort station' for the campsites farther from the main pavilion with bathrooms and big sinks for dish washing" makes this campground particularly practical for longer stays.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the area have spotty coverage. At Woodland Valley Campground, a guest noted, "No mobile signal, but that's the point, isn't it? You get to disconnect from it all for a while."
Varying site privacy levels: Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground has significant differences between sites. A frequent visitor advises, "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site. This place can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance."
Water quality considerations: Some campers mention mineral content in the water. At Winding Hills Park, a camper reported, "The water smells a little like sulfur, so you may want to bring your own." This is common in the region's natural water sources.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-focused activities: Jellystone Park Gardiner specializes in family entertainment. According to one parent, "This campground is great for kids. It has a event just about every weekend with kid activity." Another family reported, "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."
Off-peak timing: For quieter family experiences, visit during weekdays. A Kenneth Wilson visitor shared, "We didn't really see much wildlife and barely any bugs/mosquitos which was maybe the time of year (early/mid-June). The campground has some great hiking trails and a cozy vibe in a beautiful part of NY."
Playground access: Winding Hills Park includes play areas for children. "The playground has a volleyball net and other Normal playground equipment that I saw driving past it," notes one camper, making it ideal for families looking for pet-friendly camping near New Paltz with recreation options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: At New York City North-Newburgh KOA, site types vary significantly. An experienced RVer recommends, "If staying here and concerned about branches I'd suggest one of the pull through sites. Specifically 138, 146 and 145 have a nice concrete patio and nicer firepit if you want to spend a little more."
Utility considerations: Power options differ between campgrounds. At Winding Hills Park, "For non-residents the non-electric sites are $40 and the power sites are $45. Residents are $10 less. Cash only!" No sewer hookups are available at most sites, but "they have a dumping area."
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow roads. A visitor to Woodland Valley noted, "The long, narrow, and winding road from Route 28 to Woodland Valley campground should not keep you from camping there!" This advice is particularly important for larger RVs and trailers seeking accommodations for pet-friendly camping in the New Paltz region.
Traveler
