Best Campgrounds near Palenville, NY

Palenville is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Palenville, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Palenville, New York (165)

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Recent Reviews near Palenville, NY

597 Reviews of 165 Palenville Campgrounds



Guide to Palenville

Camping near Palenville, New York, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're a tent camper or an RVer, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do

  • Hiking: The area is known for its scenic trails. Many campers enjoy the nearby hiking options, like Kaaterskill Falls, which is described as "short, easy trail" but can get crowded quickly.
  • Fishing: If you love fishing, the Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds has two private lakes and a river where you can cast your line. One reviewer mentioned, "You’ve got fishing either in 2 private lakes or you can fish in the river."
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: At Little Pond - DEC, you can rent kayaks and canoes. A visitor noted, "There’s a nice little loop trail around the lake," making it perfect for a day of paddling.

What campers like

  • Natural Beauty: Campers rave about the stunning views and peaceful surroundings. One camper at North-South Lake Campground said, "The Catskills are very scenic, and we enjoyed our time there!"
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a good amount of space between them. A reviewer at Clarence Fahnestock State Park mentioned, "Each of the campsites in our loop has a lot of foliage around it, creating privacy."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner have tons of activities for kids. One parent shared, "This place is so much fun. My whole family loved the activities."

What you should know

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A visitor at Woodland Valley Campground - DEC noted, "No cell service anywhere close, so you may be stuck driving around for a while looking for some."
  • Restroom Conditions: Some campgrounds have older facilities. A camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park described the bathrooms as "very old and very clean," indicating they might not be the most modern.
  • Crowded on Weekends: If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the week. A camper at Woodland Valley Campground - DEC mentioned, "If you want a smidgen of privacy or quiet, go during the week."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids, like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner, which has a water park and playgrounds. One reviewer said, "Kids were at the playground 8 am or before, and the noise woke us up."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring food and snacks, as some campgrounds don’t have markets nearby. A camper at North-South Lake Campground noted, "There is NO market."
  • Pack for Activities: Bring gear for fishing, hiking, or swimming. A visitor at Little Pond - DEC mentioned, "There are picnic tables and room to park at your site."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds said, "We were assured that it would fit. It did—technically."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have narrow roads. A reviewer at Taconic State Park mentioned, "Sites are a little close together for my liking."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need amenities, check for campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Mt. Greylock Campsite Park appreciated the "plenty of water pressure with grey water hookups."

Camping near Palenville, New York, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Palenville, NY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Palenville, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 165 campgrounds and RV parks near Palenville, NY and 14 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Palenville, NY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Palenville, NY is North-South Lake Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 43 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Palenville, NY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 free dispersed camping spots near Palenville, NY.

  • What parks are near Palenville, NY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Palenville, NY that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.