Camping sites near Wallkill, New York offer diverse terrain experiences at elevations ranging from 300 to 1,500 feet throughout the surrounding Shawangunk Mountains. The camping season typically extends from April through late October, with fall bringing vibrant foliage and daytime temperatures in the 60s. Many local campgrounds enforce quiet hours beginning at 10 p.m. and ending at 7 a.m.
What to do
Hiking the rail trail: The 22-mile Wallkill Valley Rail Trail runs through the region, connecting several small towns with a relatively flat, accessible path. At Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, a camper mentioned, "Around the area, there is tons to do if you're an outdoors person. They have an awesome path called the rail trail that you can ride your bike or walk down, it goes for 22 miles, and you can stop on the way in little towns."
Explore rock climbing areas: The Shawangunk Mountains offer world-class rock climbing opportunities, particularly near Gardiner. At Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, a climber noted, "This is the closest campground to world renowned rock climbing in 'the gunks' and also offers many other outdoor activities including some great hikes and rock scrambles, swimming holes and waterfalls. People travel from all over the world to rock climb here."
Fall foliage viewing: The region transforms with color from mid-September through October. A visitor to Winding Hills Park observed, "We were there in late October, towards the end of the season, and there were only a few other campers there, and it was a weekend! So nice to have the whole place feel so quiet and desolate."
What campers like
Natural water features: Many campsites feature ponds, lakes or streams that enhance the camping experience. At Winding Hills Park, a reviewer appreciated, "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish." Another camper detailed, "There is a large lake to kayak and fish in. NO SWIMMING. The lake is a nice size and has a trail so you walk the entire length with benches around a good portion to sit and/or fish."
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer sites that give campers room to spread out. A visitor to Beaver Pond Campground mentioned, "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently point out the cleanliness of bathrooms and shower areas. One camper at Beaver Pond Campground shared, "Showers are free and hot and clean, water runs continuously (no button to push), and you can adjust the temperature."
What you should know
Campground seasonal operations: Not all campgrounds in the region stay open year-round or maintain the same services throughout their season. As noted about Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground, "Please be aware that, although the website says they are open in March, they will not open if there is snow on the ground. We found out the hard way on a previous trip."
Wildlife considerations: The region has active bear populations, especially in the more rural campgrounds. A visitor to Beaver Pond Campground warned, "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping." Another camper noted, "'Welcome to Bear Mountain' grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area."
Water quality variations: Some campgrounds have water with distinct mineral properties. At Winding Hills Park, a visitor pointed out, "The water smells a little like sulfur, so you may want to bring your own."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer specialized activities and facilities specifically for children. A visitor to Jellystone Park Gardiner shared, "Nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone or they have a 3 ft pool also. My older kids preferred a deeper pool but they still had a great time there they have lasertag which they enjoy. And a bounce pillow."
Timing for quieter experiences: Weekdays typically offer a calmer experience than busy weekends. A camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground advised, "This park is FULL! Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!"
Site selection matters: Research specific sites before booking when possible, as quality varies within campgrounds. One visitor noted, "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site. I highly recommend this place but check out the sites online to get one that is private."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain that requires extra attention when setting up an RV. At New York City North-Newburgh KOA, a visitor observed, "Great campsites, wooded and cozy, though a little tight for longer rigs as our neighbors found out when they ran over a wooden post backing in. But spaced apart nicely with lots of vegetation between. Nice and level."
Hookup limitations: Even campgrounds that accommodate RVs may have limited or no hookups available. A camper at Winding Hills Park explained, "No privacy between sites, but sites are big and far away enough from each other that it felt like it would be ok. Dump and potable water fill available here. Dump is kept locked, but there's a number to call and staff will come unlock for you. Water spigots available throughout campground."
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds in the area can't accommodate larger RVs. A visitor to Rondout Valley noted, "This is not an RV resort-type place. If you are looking for a CAMPground, this is a wonderful place! The only problem I had was that my Starlink didn't work at the first site (372 - full hookup) but they let me choose another site (435 - no sewer) and I was happy as a clam."
