Best Campgrounds near Pawling, NY

Camping near Pawling, New York, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Hiking: Explore the scenic trails around the area. Many campers enjoy the nearby hiking options, like the trails at North-South Lake Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "This is a hiking park... Kaaterskill Falls is an exception - short, easy trail."
• Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing swim at local lakes. Campers at Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park appreciate the nearby beach, saying, "This is also an ideal place to relax and explore."
• Fishing: Bring your fishing gear and try your luck at local spots. A visitor to Hammonasset State Park Campground noted, "Had a great time, did some snorkeling & fishing!"

What campers like

• Natural beauty: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. One happy camper at Woodland Valley Campground - DEC said, "The campsites all have fire pits with grills and picnic tables. There's a full-time campsite host, showers, bathrooms, and a trash room."
• Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A reviewer at Clarence Fahnestock State Park mentioned, "Some sites are grouped in open areas. These lack privacy."
• Friendly staff: Campers appreciate helpful campground staff. One visitor at Kenneth L Wilson Campground shared, "The ladies that run this campground are absolute queens and were so nice and helpful."

What you should know

• Noise levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A camper at Wildwood State Park Campground warned, "The crowd stayed awake playing music all night very loudly."
• Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have modern facilities. A visitor at Hammonasset State Park Campground noted, "This loop has THE WORST bathrooms/showers on the South side of the campground."
• Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, including bears. One camper at North-South Lake Campground mentioned, "There are bears that visit the campground."

Tips for camping with families

• Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. A parent at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner said, "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore."
• Plan for noise: Be ready for some noise, especially during peak times. A family camper at Wildwood State Park Campground mentioned, "The crowd stayed awake playing music all night very loudly."
• Pack outdoor games: Bring along games for downtime. A visitor at Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park suggested, "This is also an ideal place to relax and explore."

Tips from RVers

• Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Clarence Fahnestock State Park noted, "Careful which site you choose. They’re definitely intended to be tent sites."
• Look for amenities: Some campgrounds offer better facilities than others. A camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner shared, "The entire park seemed to be well maintained and clean."
• Plan for limited connectivity: Be aware that cell service may be spotty. A visitor at Kenneth L Wilson Campground mentioned, "I had basically no cell service with Verizon."

Camping near Pawling, New York, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!