Cabin rentals near Shandaken, New York range from rustic single-room structures to multi-room accommodations with varying levels of amenities. Located in Ulster County within the Catskill Mountains at elevations between 1,000-4,180 feet, the area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winters often dropping below freezing. Winter cabin rentals typically require advance booking due to limited availability during peak foliage season from late September through mid-October.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Most cabin sites serve as excellent base camps for exploring nearby trail systems. At Country Roads Campground, visitors appreciate the proximity to Adirondack trails. "We were escorted to our site upon arrival and I certainly appreciated that as we were very tired after a long day of travel," notes Philip M., highlighting the campground's attentiveness to hikers.
Creek activities: Several cabin locations provide direct water access for summertime recreation. At Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds, Kathy G. shares, "The creek on the property (Plattekill) is great, the pond is fun to fish in, the RC track is great for those who are into it, laundry facilities are efficient, full hookups are the cherry on top."
Seasonal programming: Winter and summer activity schedules vary significantly with most organized events occurring May through October. "This campground has a lot of activities but some were repetitive. It looks like Saturdays have the best activities but we were not there on a Saturday," mentions Stephanie H. about Jellystone Park Gardiner.
What campers like
Private wooded settings: Many cabins feature secluded locations despite being part of larger campgrounds. "Amazing campground with perfectly spaced large sites. There's a few playgrounds a great pool and a lot of amenities can't wait to go back," reports Richard V. about his stay at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds.
Distinctive cabin styles: Cabin rentals in the Shandaken area range from vintage to modern. At Boheme Retreats, Tiffany S. describes, "I stayed in Rosa, a vintage Shasta camper that has been renovated to perfection. She has all the amenities one could need to spend time away from the hustle and bustle of your daily life."
Proximity to nature: Cabins positioned near natural features receive consistently higher ratings. "Stayed for a night. We were over in 'Lover's Lane' so it was isolated on a separate loop. Couples only on this loop, no kids! Pricey--$60 a night. But super nice being right on the creek--we took our chairs and plopped down in the water," explains Kyla B. about her creek-side accommodation at Rip Van Winkle.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most cabin facilities operate from May through October with limited winter options. "This place is great for kids or diverse groups that all want to do different things. It's very family themed and fun for everyone. However, it can end up being as crowded as an amusement park depending on when you go," cautions Carrie J. about Blue Mountain Campground.
Bathroom conditions: Shower and restroom quality varies significantly between locations. "The bathrooms needed updating and people at the tent area made a comment that it took a while to get a turn at the showers," reports Stephanie H. about facilities at Jellystone Park Gardiner.
Noise levels: Sound carries between cabins at many locations, particularly during weekends and holidays. "When it rains theres a horrible smell across the campground," notes Yolanda T. about Blue Mountain Campground, adding that "The tent site are very richly and uneven, it was very hard to pitch a tent."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for cabins with dedicated play areas within walking distance. "This is a very nice campground for families. Has a lot of activities and facilities for campers. It is a bit more open and campsite can be a bit close to each other. But the place was very clean a friendly," reports Jenna S. about Jellystone Park Gardiner.
Rental costs: Family cabins typically range $60-175 per night depending on size and amenities. "Love it here but renting a golf cart is prob not the best option $175 for 2 days and it only goes 5mph I can walk faster than that," advises scott about Jellystone Park Gardiner, highlighting additional costs beyond base cabin rental.
Multi-generational appeal: Some Shandaken area cabins cater to extended family groups with varied interests. At Willowemoc Campgrounds, Hector V. shares his experience: "Love this place, wife grew up going there and now I have the pleasure of doing the same with our kids."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV spots with cabin rentals nearby allow mixed accommodation groups to camp together. "We had a great experience here, only one night at tent site. Site was a bit small, but overall place was very clean & taken care of. Booking online can be a bit confusing, I had to call for explanation," explains Robert M. about his stay at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds.
Utility connections: Check which cabin areas offer full hookups if using RVs alongside cabin rentals. "Very easy to level and setup on #7. Full connections. Pay showers and laundry onsite. Loved having gated security," notes C O. from Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds, which is relevant for groups combining cabins and RVs.
Off-season considerations: Most cabin campgrounds reduce services after October. "Clean staff are very friendly. Great trails. Would like to see them sell real firewood," mentions Denise S. about her experience at Mills Norrie State Park Campground.
