The Catskill Mountains around Prattsville, New York sit at elevations between 1,200 and 4,180 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall camping brings cooler temperatures and less crowded campgrounds. Most campgrounds in the area close by mid-October due to the region's heavy winter snowfall.
What to do
Hiking at Vroman's Nose: Located near Max V. Shaul State Park Campground, this trail offers panoramic views of the Schoharie Valley. "The Max V. Shaul State Park is small and quiet - only 30 sites here, which are large, flat and sited well apart from each other," notes one visitor who appreciates the campground's proximity to hiking trails.
Fishing at Beaver Spring Lake: Crazy Acres Campground provides access to a stocked fishing lake where campers can catch bass and other freshwater fish. A camper reports, "We are full timers and took our daughter, her boyfriend and our granddaughter for a weekend camping. We had fun, plenty of activities, a big lake to fish in and a pool to relax by."
Kayaking preparation: Bring your own kayaks to explore the Schoharie Creek or nearby reservoirs. Most campgrounds provide information about water access points and current conditions. Plan to bring appropriate personal flotation devices as rentals are limited in the immediate area.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention the generous site sizing at Country Roads Campground, which offers tent, RV, and glamping options. "Mainly an RV ground, but they have about 10-15 great tent sites back beyond the RV area. There are water spigots near all the tent sites and they are nice and spread out," shares one tent camper.
Clean facilities: Modern bathroom facilities receive high marks from visitors. One camper at Nickerson Park Campground appreciated that "The center area of each grouping of sites had a common use area with tether ball, playgrounds, privies, or additional parking. Each site itself was spacious, and though individual sites may not be separated by trees, there are plenty of trees around."
Yurt camping options: Prattsville-area yurt camping provides a blend of comfort and outdoor experience. Several campgrounds offer yurts with varying amenities from basic to fully-equipped. A stay in a Catskills yurt typically costs between $85-150 per night depending on amenities and season.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the Prattsville area have spotty or no cell coverage. At Alder Lake, a camper noted, "No cell service. If you bring a handsaw youll be good for firewood. Bugs were pretty bad."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from mid-May through mid-October. Peak fall foliage typically occurs in early October. Campgrounds can fill quickly during summer weekends and holiday periods.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have reported water quality issues. Bring backup water supplies, particularly for drinking. Some visitors have noted, "The water smelled like raw sewage, loaded with sediment and very discolored."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with activities: Families with children appreciate campgrounds that offer structured activities. "The sports complex and pool actually looked very nice and well maintained. There were kids everywhere," notes a visitor to Brookside Campground.
Consider water features: Swimming areas provide entertainment for children during hot summer days. "The pool/water slides were a hit with the kids! Also, the staff come around to pick up your trash bags daily, which was a nice little perk," mentions a family who visited Nickerson Park Campground.
Book early for holiday weekends: Family-oriented sites fill quickly for summer holidays. Sites with water and electric hookups typically book 3-6 months in advance for peak season, while tent-only sites may be available with shorter notice.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Many campgrounds in the Catskills region have limited access for larger RVs. A visitor to Whispering Timbers Glamping advises, "Jake from the Dyrt here! Whispering Timbers is a new glamping site on the Dyrt, check them out and make sure to leave a review after your stay!"
Check road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds include unpaved sections that can be challenging after rain. One RVer shared, "The last 1/2 mile where it is very bumpy. Some might say 4*4 but we made it just fine in our little Camry."
Water and electric reliability: Due to the mountainous terrain, utility connections can be inconsistent. RVers should arrive with full water tanks and charged batteries as backup. Sewer connections are limited at many campgrounds in the area.
