Camping near Plattekill, New York offers diverse options within the Catskill foothills at elevations ranging from 400-1,000 feet. The region's microclimate creates distinct seasonal camping experiences, with fall temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than summer highs. Several campgrounds feature waterfront access while others focus on proximity to hiking trails and state park amenities.
What to do
Hiking at Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Access over 50 miles of carriage roads and footpaths with moderate terrain suitable for day hikes from nearby campgrounds. "The hiking in the area is for all levels and ages. If you like to be outside, you won't be disappointed," notes a visitor to New York City North-Newburgh KOA.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes and ponds within a 20-minute drive offer fishing for bass and panfish. "There is another lake and two ponds that our neighbor campers said were great for catching panfish - one fisherman said he had caught several bass weighing over 3 pounds," reports a camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Rock climbing access: The Shawangunk Ridge (known as "the Gunks") provides world-class climbing opportunities. "This is the closest campground to world renowned rock climbing in 'the gunks' and also offers many other outdoor activities including some great hikes and rock scrambles, swimming holes and waterfalls. People travel from all over the world to rock climb here," explains a visitor at Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground.
What campers like
Peaceful waterfront sites: Campsites along creeks, ponds, and lakes earn premium ratings for their ambiance and recreational options. "The creek was perfect for dipping your feet and just hanging out," notes a visitor from Phoenicia Black Bear Campground.
Natural privacy: Many campgrounds feature wooded sites with natural separation. "The sites were a little on the small side and stacked a little closer than I like, but we had a good time, some beautiful views from some beautiful motorcycle roads," mentions a guest at New York City North-Newburgh KOA.
Seasonal attractions: Fall camping provides unique foliage viewing opportunities. "We make a habit of going during the end-of-summer/fall when you can watch the leaves change along the hiking trails, go apple and pumpkin picking near the campsites, and eat some scrumptious apple cinnamon doughnuts and drink pumpkin hot chocolate," shares a visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Cleanliness and maintenance of bathrooms differs widely between campgrounds. "The bathrooms are okay, showers are free. The water smells a bit," notes a camper at Winding Hills Park.
Many campgrounds close seasonally: Most sites operate from April/May through October/November with limited winter options. "When not going on a holiday it is first come first serve spots which is good if you just need to spend one night here. Pull into whichever site you want and at some point the groundskeepers will come to collect your money," explains a Winding Hills Park visitor.
Reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate on first-come, first-served basis. "We stayed for one night. Very nice private pull-through site with many trees. Wonderful store with fun things to buy! Decorated nicely for Halloween. Well kept grounds," reports a New York City North-Newburgh KOA camper.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's activities: Several sites offer structured programs. "I love this campground they have counselors who lead activities with kids in the summer and two pools plus a rock climbing tower, manifold, basketball and a bounce pillow and more... they have rental boats for a lake and fishing at the lake too," shares a visitor to New York City North-Newburgh KOA.
Consider campgrounds with beach access: Swimming options provide essential family entertainment. "The campground was nicely maintained and space was restricted between sites due to Covid. Firewood wasn't available at the camp, had to drive about a mile to grab some," notes a camper at Mills Norrie State Park Campground.
Budget for additional activities: Many family-oriented campgrounds charge for extra amenities. "Love it here but renting a golf cart is prob not the best option $175 for 2 days and it only goes 5mph I can walk faster than that," mentions a visitor to Jellystone Park Gardiner.
Tips from RVers
Check site access and leveling: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain for larger rigs. "They have been working on upgrades and adding more patio sites which does improve the place. They have lots of things to do for the kids and a fishing pond as well," explains a Thousand Trails Rondout Valley visitor.
Electric hookup limitations: Many campgrounds offer only partial hookups or limited amperage. "Each site has a picnic table & fire ring. The sites are gravel/dirt & grass. Quiet hours are from 10pm-7am. We found the sites closer to the Playground side/closer to the bathrooms to be more noisy," advises a Winding Hills Park camper.
Consider campground location: The best places to camp near Plattekill balance seclusion with convenience. "This is a very nice modern campground with great access to amazing hiking and climbing in the area! About half the sites are walk-in and half the sites are drive-up," notes a Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground visitor.
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