The Catskill region near Roscoe, New York offers diverse camping options with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,400 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day and drop to 50-60°F at night, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. Winter camping is available at select locations with temperatures often below freezing.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Bear Spring Mountain in Downsville maintains several equestrian-friendly trails through forested terrain. "Endless hiking and beautiful steams - you can drink straight from the pipes!" notes Kimberly S. about Bear Spring Mountain.
Lake activities: Promised Land State Park has multiple water access points for fishing, boating, and swimming. "There is an area for day use where you can rent a paddle boat or kayak to go out on the water. Highly recommended if you like hiking," shares J G. about North-South Lake Campground.
Scenic hiking: The Catskills feature numerous interconnected trail systems of varying difficulty. "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. about North-South Lake Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good site separation. "Clean, private, and quiet! We had a blast!!" reports Amanda P. about Bear Spring Mountain.
Lake views: Waterfront sites provide direct access to fishing and paddling. "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail," shares Kelly F. from Pickerel Point Campground.
Wildlife observation: The region supports diverse animal populations. "Lots of wildlife! There are two areas for camping, check out both though one smells kind of like a barn. Site was typical of state park campgrounds, all up to expectations. Obey bear rules!" advises Amber A. about equestrian camping near Roscoe.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Many campgrounds operate from mid-May through late August or October. "Cute and friendly campground by Launt pond :) We were there in May and there were plenty of empty sites so it was nice and quiet," notes Mayra D.
Bathroom facilities: Most established campgrounds maintain clean facilities. "The bathrooms were clean with nice hot showers," reports Kelly F. about Pickerel Point, while another camper mentions "Showers are coin operated" at other locations.
Cell service: Coverage varies significantly by location. "Cell service covers the area, if you care. And no gas boats are allowed on the lake (cool!)," shares David about Lackawanna State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds have dedicated areas for children. "Small playground was nice for the kids," mentions Becky S. about local recreation options.
Swimming options: Beach areas provide safe places for supervised water play. "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless. You absolutely have to bring a kayak/inflatable boat, but if you don't own one, don't worry, you can rent one," recommends Debbie W. about Promised Land State Park.
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer nature programs during peak season. "There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails," explains Janet R.
Tips from RVers
Hookup reliability: Electrical services can vary by campground. "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," warns David about Lackawanna State Park.
Site leveling: Some locations have uneven terrain. "The only drawback is fire pit area was very un-level for camping chairs, otherwise it's a nice wooded site with privacy," notes Dawn R. about Lower Lake Campground.
Seasonal restrictions: Winter camping options are limited. "This park is open year round. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," explains Mara S. about winter camping accommodations.
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