Primitive camping sites offer secluded tent options near Rhinebeck, New York in the Catskill Mountains, where elevations range from 600 to 4,200 feet. Temperature variations between valleys and higher elevations can exceed 10 degrees, with summer lows reaching the 50s even when daytime temperatures climb into the 80s. Many campgrounds close during winter months when snow accumulates on access roads, making them impassable.
What to do
Challenging hikes and views: Giant Ledge Primitive Camp provides access to both scenic ledges and the option to summit Panther Mountain. One camper noted, "From the parking area of Giant Ledge/Panther Mountain this was a fairly decent and semi challenging hike... Getting a campsite up at the Giant Ledge area is hit or miss, as I only know of two."
Rock climbing: Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground serves as a hub for climbers visiting the internationally known "Gunks" climbing area. A reviewer mentioned it's "the perfect location for exploring the Gunks, Mohonk Preserve, etc. You couldn't be more central to everything that's going on around it."
Swimming and lake activities: Echo Lake offers swimming opportunities surrounded by hills. A visitor described it as having "tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits and 1 lean-to site at the end of the trail when you first arrive at the lake."
What campers like
Level tent sites: Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground features exceptionally flat tent pads. One camper described them as "The nicest, most level tent site you'll ever find. So easy to set up, and no worries whatsoever about roots or rocks."
Lakeside camping: Tent campsites near Rhinebeck at Echo Lake provide shoreline spots with views. A camper shared: "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two with a few campfire spots. Other campsites are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants). We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze."
Wildlife viewing: Giant Ledge Primitive Camp offers chances to observe wildlife, though bear precautions are necessary. A visitor reported: "Thought I heard bears come through overnight, but may have been a lucid dream. Bear can was undisturbed in the morning."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Most primitive tent camping areas in the Catskills require proper food storage. At Giant Ledge, a camper advised: "Bring a bear bell and bear mace can to be safe. We did not see any but definite signs of them."
Water availability: Many camping areas have limited or no water sources. For Echo Lake, campers should know the water situation: "The spring water source is a short hike back from the campsite, relatively convenient to restock from camp."
Trail conditions: Lake Minnewaska and surrounding areas have varying trail difficulty levels. One visitor commented about a nearby trail: "We went to Sams point Overlook for a 6 mile hike and I highly recommend it. Both the campsite and hike trail were extremely clean, staff was friendly, and they were continuing to update the paths so you don't get misguided."
Campsite proximity: Many tent sites are closer together than expected. At Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, a camper observed: "Campsites are CLOSE together. I was relieved to be in a site we had to walk to, because having the car right there combined with other tents would have been a little claustrophobic."
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparation: Tent campsites around lakes can have bug issues. At Echo Lake, a camper warned: "Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray."
Hiking difficulty assessment: Creek View Campground offers a more accessible base for families wanting to explore the area without strenuous hikes. Though basic, it provides "the existence of running water, a toilet, and consider a shower room a bonus" according to one camper.
Weather planning: Temperature drops can be significant in the Catskills, especially at higher elevations. Pack extra layers for children even during summer months when nighttime temperatures can drop below 60°F.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping areas near Rhinebeck focus on tent camping with few RV amenities. Creek View Campground offers some hookup options, but a camper noted it's "very affordable for the area" though "low-frills" with "an electrical outlet sticking up out of the ground here and there."
Alternative glamping choices: Getaway Catskill Campground offers a more comfortable option for those wanting amenities. A reviewer mentioned: "Each site has a private bathroom and hot shower, as well as a kitchenette," making it suitable for those wanting camping comfort without an RV.
