Glamping options near Parksville, New York range from cozy yurts to waterfront cabins across the eastern Catskills region, situated approximately 1,300-1,800 feet above sea level. Seasonal considerations impact camping experiences with warm humid summers reaching high 70s and fall temperatures dropping into the 40s at night. Winter camping options remain limited with most facilities closing from November through April.
What to do
Hiking around Balsam Lake Fire Tower: Located within day-trip distance from Russell Brook Campsites, this moderate 5.8-mile round trip hike rewards with panoramic views. "Have stayed at RB multiple times over the years since Charlie ran the place. It's an awesome visit to the woods. As close to nature as possible with modern conveniences still nearby," notes Brian J.
Family river activities: Roscoe Campsites provides direct access to the Beaverkill River with multiple water recreation options. "Great access to the beaverkill. It's perfect for a quick getaway," shares Mike C. Fishing enthusiasts particularly appreciate the river access, with Richard V. adding that it's "Right on the Beaverkill River, it's quiet, clean, gorgeous, brand new cabins and concrete pads. Fisherman's heaven."
Seasonal lake activities: Multiple campgrounds offer lake-based recreation from spring through fall. Alder Lake features a peaceful hiking loop around the water. "The hike around the lake is a lovely, easy walk. The hike trail that connects to the far end of the lake is 6+ miles and while there were no real views, it was lovely," explains Erik C.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "Bathrooms were very clean every time we needed them, and they were easy to access from the tent sites," mentions one visitor to Roscoe Campsites. At Jellystone Park Gardiner, families appreciate the maintained facilities despite the family-oriented atmosphere.
Family-friendly programming: Structured activities keep younger campers engaged. "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," notes Stephanie H. about Jellystone Park Gardiner.
Secluded camping options: For those seeking quieter glamping close to Parksville, New York, several campgrounds offer more isolated sites. "The campsites are very spacious with lots of room between you and other campers, and have a fire pit and some have picnic tables," observes Nora S. about Alder Lake. "We're most definitely returning!"
What you should know
Site variation considerations: Campsite quality varies significantly within individual campgrounds. "Our site was massive (39) and and direct access to Russell Brook. Couldn't keep my son out of the water," shares Mike C. about Russell Brook Campsites. However, at other locations like Roscoe Campsites, "The 'tent sites' are VERY close together, and there is nothing separating them. If you're looking for quiet seclusion, don't even remotely consider this spot as an option."
Weather preparedness: The Catskills region experiences significant seasonal variation. Pack appropriate gear for temperature fluctuations, especially for spring and fall camping when nights can drop below 40°F. Morning dew and occasional rain can create muddy conditions at many sites.
Reservation timing: Most glamping accommodations near Parksville require advance booking, especially for summer weekends and fall foliage season. Some campgrounds operate seasonally with limited availability. Year-Round Scenic Lakefront Glamping offers one of the few wintertime glamping options in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds cater specifically to first-time campers and families. "The farm, playground, beach, and shallow river make it a great, easy entry point for new and younger campers," reports Justin H. about Roscoe Campsites, making it ideal for introducing children to outdoor experiences.
Safety considerations: Check campground layouts before booking with children. Some riverfront sites present water safety concerns. "While snagging a campsite next to the river is nice in terms of ambiance, it also means that you get to act as the gatekeeper for every other camper trying to get to the beach area," warns one visitor about high-traffic areas.
Kid-focused activities: Thousand Trails Rondout Valley offers structured recreation options for children. "This campground is great. Lots of activities a pool access, food court and basketball courts," notes Kaitlin B. The creek running through the property provides additional entertainment, with one visitor sharing, "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary widely between glamping sites near Parksville. RVers should verify specific hookup types before booking. "We had our full hookup site minus the neighbors' weekend ragers. (At least they turned off the music at quiet hours)," shares one RVer about Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
Site grading challenges: Some campgrounds present leveling difficulties for larger vehicles. "It wasn't the easiest for my RV van to get up the hill with the ruts, but I have a small lift so it helps, lower clearance vans might not make it," warns SJ W. about Alder Lake. Concrete pads at locations like Roscoe Campsites provide more stable setup options.
RV-friendly amenities: Many glamping locations accommodate both tent and RV campers with varying levels of services. Firewood availability, trash disposal, and dump stations differ between properties, requiring advance planning for longer stays.
