Prattsville camping areas sit in the northern Catskills at elevations of 1,000-3,500 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than nearby lowland areas. The region receives approximately 45 inches of annual precipitation with summer daytime highs typically reaching 70-80°F while dropping into the 50s at night. Fall camping season extends through mid-October when leaf colors peak and temperatures cool significantly.
What to do
Streamside hiking: Connect directly to trails from Woodland Valley Campground. Situated near the Slide Mountain Wilderness, the campground provides immediate access to popular Catskill hiking routes. "Large campsite, clean facilities, fire pit, friendly and knowledgeable staff. This is an excellent site if you're looking to explore the Slide Mountain Wilderness and a great place to prep if you're planning to go backpacking as well," notes Derek W.
Waterfall exploration: Reach Kaaterskill Falls within a short drive. Located just minutes from North-South Lake Campground, this 260-foot two-tier waterfall ranks among the region's most photographed natural features. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot. We had a wonderful weekend there," writes Brittany W.
Fishing access: Cast for trout in local streams year-round. The Schoharie Creek and its tributaries near Max V. Shaul State Park Campground offer good fishing opportunities. The park provides streamside access points and flat terrain for easy casting. "Great small campground. Lots of space between sites," reports Tom S., noting the convenient location for anglers.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Sites at Kenneth L Wilson offer excellent separation. The campground features wooded sites set back from access roads. "We LOVED our site (site 9). It was absolutely massive! The photo doesn't do it justice. It was set back very far from the main road and was an extremely large site!" writes C R., highlighting the spaciousness many campers seek.
Water recreation: Swimming and boating options at multiple locations. North-South Lake Campground offers two connected lakes with swimming beaches and boat rentals. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," mentions Lizz H., emphasizing the recreational water access.
Bathroom facilities: Recently renovated facilities at several parks. Many campgrounds have upgraded their bathhouses in recent years. "The bathrooms were very clean and new and the showers were free and temperature controlled to perfectly warm!!" reports Melanie H. about Kenneth L Wilson Campground, while Tom S. notes Max V. Shaul's "bath house is clean and modern."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Prepare for disconnection at most sites. The mountainous terrain blocks signals throughout much of the area. Sam L. notes about Devil's Tombstone: "There is NO cell service here. You have to drive about 5 minutes towards Hunter to get service."
Road conditions to dispersed sites: High-clearance vehicles recommended. Accessing more remote camping spots requires navigating rough forest roads. At Duck Pond Campsite, one camper cautions: "The road in on old cemetery rd was pretty rough, so we decided to go out the other way, which was way worse... Intermittent cell service which was frightening while driving on these rough roads."
Reservation requirements: Book early for prime weekends. Most established campgrounds fill quickly, especially during fall foliage season. "Reserve very early for waterfront," advises Rachel G. about North-South Lake Campground, where lakeside sites are particularly sought after.
Wildlife considerations: Bear-resistant food storage essential. Black bears are active throughout the Catskills. Derek W. mentions: "Did not encounter black bears but they do frequent the area," highlighting the importance of proper precautions even when bears aren't immediately visible.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Devil's Tombstone includes a playground for children. "There is a playground for kids so you don't have to watch over them while you set up," notes Phillip L., mentioning this convenient feature.
Swimming options for various ages: Choose sites with gentle water entry. Country Roads Campground receives consistent praise for its family-friendly atmosphere. William R. describes it as a "great family spot" noting that beyond the RV area "they have about 10-15 great tent sites back beyond the RV area" and mentions special events including "bingo" that appeal to families.
Sites with natural entertainment: Select locations with streams or interesting terrain. Woodland Valley features sites alongside a mountain creek that creates natural white noise. John N. describes it as "the mountain creek is like nature singing a lullaby - sleeping next to it was very relaxing."
Tips from RVers
Site inclines: Request level sites when booking. Many Catskill camping spots near Prattsville feature sloped terrain that can challenge RV setup. "There are some sites with an incline down to the site," notes one camper about accessibility concerns.
Seasonal facility limitations: Check hookup availability by date. Most campgrounds in the region operate with reduced services in early spring and late fall. "No hookups, just a picnic table, firepit," mentions Holly R. about Max V. Shaul State Park, though water spigots are available nearby.
Size restrictions: Measure your rig before booking at smaller campgrounds. Nickerson Park Campground accommodates larger RVs more easily than some state facilities. Sarah S. describes the layout: "Groups of sites sit on level terraces stepped down toward the river. The center area of each grouping of sites had a common use area with tether ball, playgrounds, privies, or additional parking."
