Camping near Purling, New York offers diverse options in the western Catskill Mountains, where elevations range from 1,000 to 3,000 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-70s while dropping to the 50s at night, making it ideal for both tent and yurt camping. The region's clay-based soil affects drainage after rainfall, with water flowing down roadways during heavy precipitation.
What to do
Hiking at Bash Bish Falls: Located near Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park, this waterfall destination spans two states. "There are plenty of hiking trails nearby and of course, trails to Bash Bish Falls which is beautiful. It was low the first time we visited and we were able to make it to the top of the falls to go swimming and the views were incredible," notes camper Jackie G.
Swimming in Lake Taghkanic: A 20-minute drive from Purling at Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground offers clean swimming areas. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards/kayaks etc," shares Mellisa T. The park maintains "a big lake with boat rentals. Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," adds Seth K.
Visit local farms: Staying at Brookside Campground provides farm animal interactions. "Small farm right next to our site, goats, cow chickens, ducks, geese," says David R. Another camper mentions, "They have animals the kids can go check out."
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Many yurt camping options near Purling feature raised platforms that keep gear dry. "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection," says Rosie R. from Taconic State Park. "Each of the sites had a large platform (enough room for one very large tent or 2-3 smaller tents), a fire pit, and picnic table," adds Christina M.
Clean bathroom facilities: Blue Mountain Campground and other sites maintain shower facilities. "Nice and clean restrooms very friendly staff I would come back here again and recommended," notes Engin C. At Lake Taghkanic, "Showers are hot and there's great water pressure. The cleanliness of the bathrooms depends on how busy the campground is," adds Perrin M.
Weather accommodations: Campgrounds offer weather contingency options during storms. "We went last year with my kids they loved the arcade small but it's a camp ground. We use tents and got a bad storm the owner called and let up bunk in the arcade for the night since she was worried," shares Michael A.
What you should know
Site drainage varies: The clay soil in the Catskills affects campsite conditions after rain. "During the heavy rains water flowed down the roads ways due to the clay based soil and looked like it pooled up in places near the tent areas," reports David S.
Busy weekends: Nickerson Park Campground and others can get crowded during peak times. "This was a truly great campground, but its proximity to NYC draws large crowds on weekends," warns John E. Plan mid-week stays for more privacy: "We stayed for two nights mid-week in June and had the entire loop to ourselves," shares Taylor H.
Water quality considerations: Some campgrounds have water quality issues that visitors should prepare for. "The water smelled like raw sewage, loaded with sediment and very discolored. Little to no pressure and a couple times no water at all," warns Peter S. about one campground. Consider bringing your own drinking water.
Tips for camping with families
Look for family-friendly activities: A Promise to Gaia/Garden of One offers educational opportunities about native plants. "This property is rented to others to help maintain and expand native and pollinating species of plants," notes Ashley F., perfect for teaching children about nature.
Check recreation amenities: Several campgrounds offer pools and playgrounds. "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," shares Sarah S. about Nickerson Park Campground.
Choose sites away from crowds: For quieter family camping, select more remote locations. "Up front the sites were too close together, but more towards the back was more spacious and private sites," advises John E. Another camper recommends, "Take the sites on the hill, nearest to the bathrooms, as all these sites seemed to be generally very well maintained."
Tips from RVers
Check site access: Many yurt camping areas near Purling have limited RV access. "This place is very beautiful and rustic at the same time. Once you get the hang of getting around the area there is so much to do," notes Elisa Q. about Lake Taghkanic State Park.
Consider deck sites: Some campgrounds offer unique deck options for smaller vehicles. "We stayed on one of their deck sites with our Class B (Winnebago). I LOVED sitting out on the deck every morning for my coffee while taking in the fall air," shares Janly P.
Verify hookup compatibility: RV sites vary in their amenity offerings. "If you have an RV, they have 30/50 amp with electric and water. There is no sewer, but they have a dump-station and on-site Honeywagon truck that you can schedule," notes Jeff & Steff's Excellent Adventure about camping options in the area.
