Camping options around Otisville feature sites set within Sullivan and Orange Counties, at elevations between 400-1,200 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer daytime temperatures typically ranging 75-85°F and winter months seeing freezing temperatures with occasional snow. Campsites in this area often feature wooded or riverside terrain, with varying degrees of privacy between locations.
What to do
River recreation access: At Slumberland at the River's Edge, the waterfront location provides swimming, tubing, and fishing directly from your site. "The serene river provided the perfect backdrop for relaxation and water-based activities. We enjoyed swimming, tubing, and even fishing," shared one visitor about their experience at this glamping spot.
Hiking on marked trails: High Point State Park Campground offers direct trail access with connection to the Appalachian Trail. "I spent two nights camping with my niece and this campground was perfect. We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite, swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake," reported one camper who appreciated the variety of activities.
Rustic camping experiences: Less developed options like Jerry's Three River Campground offer basic facilities for those seeking a simpler outdoor experience. "The campground is VERY rustic with little to no amenities. There are tent sites, seasonal sites for RVs, group tent & RV sites and group/pavilion sites," noted a long-time visitor, indicating it works well for groups looking for fewer restrictions.
What campers like
Tent platforms and water features: Campsites with elevated platforms provide practical comfort at Stokes State Forest. "We stayed at the campsite at Lake Ocquittunk Area. Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents," explained a visitor who appreciated the convenience.
Family-friendly water activities: Neversink River Resort receives positive feedback for its water recreation. "Very clean park. Lots of families. Tubing was fun. Bring bug spray," advised a recent visitor, emphasizing the importance of insect protection when enjoying the river.
Digital disconnection: Some campsites offer a true break from technology. At glamping sites in Otisville, limited connectivity can be a feature rather than a drawback. "The lack of phone service was a blessing in disguise, allowing us to disconnect from technology and truly immerse ourselves in nature," shared a camper who found value in unplugging during their stay.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Mountain Top RV Park, location within the campground can affect your experience. "If you're booking, it may be best to book on the upper levels because the lower area where we were did flood pretty bad a couple times when there was a lot of rain," advised a camper, highlighting the importance of researching site placement.
Bathroom facilities vary: Throughout the region, bathroom quality differs significantly between campgrounds. "Clean-ish bathrooms with flush toilets, no sinks, no showers, with that awful outhouse smell. Bringing your own toilet paper is a good idea as the park didn't replace it enough and it ran out," reported one camper about their experience, suggesting campers come prepared.
Site privacy differences: Oakland Valley Campground offers different levels of seclusion depending on where you camp. "I stayed here for Columbus Day weekend. I stayed in the upper section of camp, but there is a middle section and after a lower section where the river is. The sites seemed closer together by the river, but not too bad," observed one visitor, noting the trade-off between river access and privacy.
Tips for camping with families
Check age-appropriate activities: Jellystone Park Gardiner specializes in family camping with programmed events. "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore. I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there," mentioned a parent who found activities suitable for older children as well.
Consider noise levels: Some family-friendly campgrounds can be quite active and noisy, which affects different families differently. "This place is great for kids or diverse groups that all want to do different things. It's very family themed and fun for everyone. However, it can end up being as crowded as an amusement park depending on when you go," cautioned one visitor, suggesting timing your visit strategically.
Pack for varied weather: The region experiences temperature fluctuations, especially in spring and fall. "We went to Stokes for a one nighter to test out my new truck tent. Due to cooler temps there were really no bugs to complain about while camping," noted a camper, highlighting how seasonal timing affects comfort factors like insect activity.
Tips from RVers
Check site levelness: Uneven sites can create challenges for RV setup. "So, we got in with no reservation, which was great. It's in the same park as the high point, also great. The sites are varied, some have tent platforms, it's just off the AT, but we have a trailer and the 'trailer' sites aren't level," reported an RVer at High Point State Park, emphasizing the importance of preparation.
Consider shower access hours: RVers relying on campground facilities should note timing restrictions. "Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump, website says laundry, but apparently not," continued the same RVer, pointing out that amenities may be more limited than advertised.
Note trash disposal locations: At some campgrounds, waste disposal requires significant walking or driving. "The garbage situation was the worst. Most campsites have a service, they tell you to leave it at a specific location by a certain time or they have many garbage cans throughout. This place had their garbage and recycling very far away," explained an RVer describing the inconvenience of distant facilities.
