Best Campgrounds near Putnam Valley, NY

Camping near Putnam Valley, New York, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

• Hiking: There are numerous trails around the campgrounds. For example, at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, you can enjoy over 40 miles of trails. One visitor mentioned, "The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area."
• Fishing and Water Activities: Many campgrounds, like Lake Waramaug State Park Campground, offer access to lakes for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. A long-time camper shared, "The lake is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, canoes and for fishing."
• Family Activities: Campgrounds such as Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner have tons of activities for kids. One parent noted, "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore."

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the beautiful surroundings. At Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park, one reviewer said, "I enjoy the beach/lakefront, option for platform sites, and regularly cleaned bathroom and shower facilities."
• Quiet Atmosphere: Many visitors enjoy the peacefulness of the campgrounds. A camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park remarked, "It was so quiet at night—not a sound after 11pm during my visit."
• Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. One visitor at New York City North-Newburgh KOA said, "They have the best staff and they are everywhere, if you need someone they are always around and super friendly."

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Kettletown State Park Campground, have basic facilities. A visitor noted, "The camping spots are uneven, making it challenging to set up tents or campers."
• Noise Levels: Be prepared for noise, especially on weekends. A camper at Lake Waramaug State Park Campground mentioned, "I would never camp here on a weekend... it is a party place then."
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife. One camper at Margaret Norrie State Park Campground said, "There have been issues with the bathrooms off and on over the decades. It seems like they’ve finally fixed everything."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids, like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner. A parent shared, "My kids enjoyed themselves a lot, and that is what matters."
• Plan for Quiet Hours: Be mindful of noise during quiet hours. A visitor at Beaver Pond Campground mentioned, "When I plan my trip around the spring, fall, or summer weekends that look sparse it is quiet, clean."
• Pack Essentials: Bring everything you need, as some campgrounds have limited stores. A camper at Kettletown State Park Campground advised, "Plan on bringing your own food and cooking."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley said, "The sites are very spacious and have lots of trees and shade."
• Be Prepared for Limited Connectivity: Many campgrounds have poor cell service. A visitor at New York City North-Newburgh KOA noted, "Our Verizon cell service was practically non-existent."
• Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check ahead. A camper at Rondout Valley RV Campground mentioned, "The sewer connection ran uphill for me, but my pipe sits very low."

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