Best Campgrounds near Shandaken, NY

Camping near Shandaken, New York, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

• Hiking: The area is known for its scenic trails. Many campers recommend checking out Kaaterskill Falls, which has a short, easy trail. One visitor noted, "The trail to the Mountain House Site is also pretty easy, with more of an incline," making it accessible for various skill levels.
• Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, you can cast a line in nearby lakes or rivers. One camper mentioned, "You’ve got fishing either in 2 private lakes or you can fish in the river," highlighting the variety of fishing spots available.
• Swimming: Some campgrounds, like North-South Lake Campground, have lakes with swimming areas. A reviewer said, "There are two nice lakes with beaches," perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.

What campers like:

• Natural Beauty: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. One visitor described Woodland Valley Campground as "gorgeous," with a brook nearby and easy access to the lake.
• Privacy: Many sites are well-spaced, providing a sense of seclusion. A camper at Kenneth L Wilson Campground mentioned, "While some of the spots were fairly close together, they seem more spread out than in other Catskill camping sites."
• Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate helpful staff at various campgrounds. One reviewer noted, "The staff was friendly and helpful," which can make a big difference in your camping experience.

What you should know:

• Limited Cell Service: Be prepared to disconnect. A camper at North-South Lake Campground mentioned, "There is NO cell service & just forget about WiFi," so plan accordingly.
• Bear Activity: Wildlife is a part of the experience. One camper warned, "There’s a lot of bear activity here, so constantly cleaning up your food is very important," reminding everyone to be cautious with food storage.
• Facilities: Some campgrounds have mixed reviews about cleanliness. A visitor at Woodland Valley Campground said, "Half the bathrooms don’t work," so it’s good to check the facilities before you go.

Tips for camping with families:

• Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds and swimming areas. One parent shared, "This place is so much fun. My whole family loved the activities," about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner.
• Choose Weekdays: If you want a quieter experience, consider camping during the week. A visitor noted, "It was really peaceful when we visited in the middle of the week," which can make a big difference for families.
• Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy. One camper at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds mentioned, "Bring your inter tubes, bug spray!" which is a good reminder to be prepared for outdoor fun.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Rondout Valley RV Campground said, "We were assured that it would fit. It did—technically," highlighting the importance of checking dimensions.
• Road Conditions: Be aware of the road conditions leading to your site. One camper noted, "The roads are quite rocky and can be difficult to navigate," which is something to consider when driving larger rigs.
• Amenities Matter: Look for campgrounds with good amenities. A visitor at New York City North-Newburgh KOA mentioned, "They have a pond for fishing, basketball, a mini golf course," which can enhance your stay.

Camping near Shandaken, New York, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful Catskills!