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Camping near Saugerties, New York spans a 30-mile radius of the Catskill Mountains, ranging from developed campgrounds with tent, RV, and cabin options to primitive sites that require hiking in with no facilities. North-South Lake Campground in Haines Falls offers shaded sites tucked under trees with some positioned near streams and lakes, while Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds in Saugerties itself provides tent, RV, and cabin accommodations with fishing access. The region includes both developed state park campgrounds with amenities and more primitive options like Echo Lake, which requires hiking in and offers no facilities. Most established campgrounds operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) managing several properties throughout the area.
Reservations are essential during summer months when campgrounds frequently reach capacity, especially on weekends and holidays. Many campers report limited or no cell service throughout the Catskills camping areas. As one visitor to North-South Lake noted, "There is NO cell service and just forget about WiFi. You are unplugged." Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, with summer thunderstorms and occasional tropical storm systems affecting the region. Black bears are common visitors to campgrounds, requiring proper food storage. Most developed sites provide fire rings, picnic tables, and access to bathrooms, though amenities vary significantly between state-run facilities and private campgrounds.
Waterfront sites at locations like Little Pond Campground and Beaverkill Campground command premium prices but offer direct water access. According to one camper, "Any of the sites along the water would be really nice and all sites are fairly private." Proximity to hiking trails represents another key consideration, with many campgrounds near Saugerties serving as trailheads to popular Catskill routes. Kenneth L. Wilson Campground provides "nearly 4 miles of trails within the campground and surrounding areas," while other properties connect to extensive trail networks. Weekday visits typically offer more solitude and availability than weekends, when family groups and day-trippers can create a busier atmosphere at popular swimming and picnic areas.
"Our first campground was in New York Aug 8th. Unfortunately, Debbie was socking New York hard. North South Lake Campground in the Catskills was our camping home."
"This is a truly beautiful and scenic campground, easily one of the best places we have visited in New York State."
from $22 - $44 / night
Check Availability"You’ve got fishing either in 2 private lakes or you can fish in the river but to do the river you’ll need a New York State fishing license."
"I was a little skeptical that we wouldn’t get to choose our site, but you can’t go wrong, they are all wooded, private and well situated. The campground is centrally located you many things to do."
"This campground is nestled in the Catskills, New York, with easy access to New Jersey and Connecticut."
"Access to fresh water spouts and clean bathrooms were just a walk away from most sites, theres a beautiful pond on site and beautiful views of the Catskills, Woodstock is a 15 min drive if you’re looking"
from $22 / night
Check Availability"The campground has a 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."
"We decided on Lake Taghkanic. Lake Taghkanic State Park was not a long drive from NYC, maybe 2 hours. The campsite was very clean and maintained."
from $17 - $195 / night
Check Availability"There are great hiking trails on the Hudson River right outside your campsite. Amenities are the great outdoors and an ancient bath house built during the New Deal in the 1930's."
"Firewood wasn’t available at the camp, had to drive about a mile to grab some. Close to town so easy to grab needed items."
from $17 - $102 / night
Check Availability"I went here with my friend and we were using it as our base camp as we went out in trails in the eastern Catskills notably the Devils Path, echo lake, etc."
"Nice little campground with lake sites. The Northville Placed Trail comes out in this campground. The showers were clean and plenty of pressure."
"water to play in right behind tent. I do prefer fire pits over the brick stove. this had the stove. more advanced hiking in walking distance. no cell service. my gps on phone was able to track though."
"Close to Woodstock, NY, many trails and other attractions. You need to plan for it, there's a lot to explore; some trails are challenging. "
from $20 / night
Check Availability"this is close by to many catskill hiking trails"
"It was close to trails and town"
from $16 / night
Check Availability"The bathroom and bathhouse were a bit run down looking from the outside, but inside they were updated and clean."
"There are 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. The sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees. "
"Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean two with a few campfire spots."
TravelerCamp is pretty close together but most spots have a thick tree line between them which is nice. You still get a bit of road noise off the bridge and surrounding areas but it’s not to bad and the views at the boat launch on the Hudson are gorgeous
ScoutAfter a busy few weeks, this was exactly the break we needed. The kids went swimming, we did some fishing, and everyone came home tired in a good way lol.
TravelerFree site ran by Peekemoose forest. There are supposed to be 12 along throughout the valley, this is the only one we were able to locate. Was able to access easily with a minivan and has a nice flat area. Can see the highway from the site.
ScoutWhite Pines made a really good home base for our trip. We spent most of the days checking out different spots around northwest Connecticut and came back here in the evenings. Made dinner outside, had a fire, and just relaxed. The campground itself had everything we needed without having to make a bunch of extra trips into town.
ScoutWe brought our camper up for the weekend and the kids immediately wanted to go to the pool.😂 They also loved the fishing pond and exploring around the campground. There was plenty to keep them busy while we got some actual downtime.
ScoutOne thing I really liked was having wifi when we needed it. Nice to be able to check in on work and then put the phone away and enjoy the rest of the day.
ScoutOctober leaves starting to fall makes for a very quiet, peaceful midweek evening in one of the two dispersed car camping sites. Exactly what I was hoping for - private and empty and lovely. Easy to find - two dispersed car sites are to the left at the fork in the road before the trailhead.
ScoutNice campground with a good mix of activities. We went fishing one morning, spent the afternoon at the pool and had a fire that night. Pretty much a perfect camping day.
GuideMade a reservation (site44) since I arrived as the sun had set. Office registration was open until 8. Staff was neither friendly nor unfriendly. Bathroom was dated but fine and a short walk from my site. CG was emptier being a Tuesday night in mid-October, so was plenty of space.
Great trail following the Hudson River. Beautiful fall colors.
Saugerties camping options feature sites at various elevations throughout the Catskill Mountain range, from approximately 800 to 2,200 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in the region operate during a defined season from early May through mid-October, with peak rates during July and August. Weather patterns typically include warm summer days with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cooler nights dropping to 50-60°F.
Kayaking access points: At Mills Norrie State Park Campground, visitors find direct water recreation options. "The park has a marina onsite with kayak rentals on the river," notes Michael G. The Hudson River access provides paddling opportunities for all skill levels.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple small bodies of water offer fishing throughout the area. "The pond is fun to fish in," says Kathy G. about Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds, adding that "the creek on the property (Plattekill) is great." Licenses required for ages 16+ can be purchased online or at local tackle shops.
Hiking networks: Several campgrounds serve as trailheads for significant Catskill routes. "This campground has nearly 4 miles of trails within the campground and surrounding areas," says one camper about Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground. The Phoenicia area campgrounds also connect to major trail networks. "Great hiking nearby is fantastic," Jessica W. remarks. "A lot of the hiking nearby is also relatively easy and includes the newly opened viewing platform for Kaasterskill falls."
Unplugged experience: Cell service limitations create forced disconnection at most sites. "No mobile signal, but that's the point, isn't it? You get to disconnect from it all for a while," says John N. about Woodland Valley Campground. The absence of connectivity creates a more immersive outdoor experience.
Swimming options: Lake-based campgrounds provide natural swimming areas. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," notes Lizz H. about swimming at North-South Lake. At Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground, visitors find "great beach, 5 minute drive from campground" according to Mellisa T., who adds that "the lake is beautiful and clean."
Creek sounds: Some sites feature natural water sounds that enhance overnight stays. "The mountain creek is like nature singing a lullaby - sleeping next to it was very relaxing," says John N. about Woodland Valley. Creek-side sites typically book fastest, especially during peak season.
Reservation timelines: Popular campgrounds require advance planning. "Reserve very early for waterfront," advises Rachel G. about North-South Lake Campground. Many waterfront and premium sites book 9 months in advance, particularly for summer weekends.
Bear activity: Food storage protocols remain critical for safety. "Got chased off by a bear," reports Kane B. about Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground. Proper food storage in vehicles or bear-resistant containers required at all Catskill camping areas.
Site variations: Ground conditions vary significantly between campgrounds. At Devil's Tombstone Campground, "Be aware the site is very rocky, so a sleeping pad or air mattress would be ideal," notes Yasmin S. Several campgrounds feature either gravel or platform sites rather than standard dirt tent pads.
Pool facilities: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools as alternatives to natural water. At Blue Mountain Reservation, "They have a pool which I did not use but it looked nice," reports Derek W. Brookside Campground also features "a great pool" according to Richard V.
Playground access: Family-friendly amenities exist at multiple locations. "There is a playground for kids so you don't have to watch over them while you set up," reports phillip L. about one campground. Richard V. notes that Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds has "a few playgrounds."
Recreation buildings: Some campgrounds provide indoor recreation spaces. "The rec room and snacks and nicely stocked camp store and exceptionally clean bath houses" are available at Blue Mountain according to Kimberly G., who adds there's a "basketball court" and "game room."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. At Mills Norrie, "There are only a handful of sites with electric hookups and only one (site 51) is level," reports Kathy L., who adds "Some have a steep descent off the road, and there's a lip on the road that can scrape bottom of campers/RVs."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full sewer service. "Sanitary dump station" is available at Devil's Tombstone Campground, though the campground lacks showers. Several parks require driving to neighboring facilities for full-service options.
Electric hookup limitations: Power availability varies widely between sites. At North-South Lake Campground, electric sites remain limited and require early reservation. Many tent-focused campgrounds provide electric options only in specific loops or areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds near Saugerties, NY?
The Catskill region around Saugerties offers several excellent camping options. North-South Lake Campground is one of the larger public campgrounds in the area with well-spaced sites ideal for families. The huge lake provides recreational opportunities, though it can get crowded during holidays. Another standout option is Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground, which features large, tree-surrounded campsites offering a good balance of privacy and community. The campground is nestled in the Catskills with easy access to surrounding areas, making it a convenient base for exploring the region.
What private campgrounds are available in Saugerties for family camping?
Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds is an excellent private campground for families, featuring two private lakes for fishing (river fishing also available with a New York State license). The campground offers numerous family-friendly amenities including playgrounds, basketball courts, a swimming pool, and even a remote control car track. Another family-friendly option is Treetopia Campground, which provides a unique camping/glamping experience in the Catskills. They offer various accommodation options including RV sites and yurts, making it flexible for different family preferences and camping styles.
Are there any waterfront or beach camping options in the Saugerties area?
Yes, the Saugerties area offers several waterfront camping options. Phoenicia Black Bear Campground provides creek-front campsites with fire rings and picnic tables, perfect for those who want to camp alongside running water. The creek-front sites are particularly recommended for the peaceful water sounds and scenery. For lake swimming, Sam Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground near Minnewaska State Park Preserve offers access to a unique swimming experience in what's described as New York's most acidic lake (though it's completely safe for swimming).
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