The Catskill region around Shokan, New York features elevations ranging from approximately 600 feet at the Ashokan Reservoir to over 3,000 feet at nearby mountain peaks. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing between November and March, with summer daytime averages reaching 70-85°F. Most campgrounds in the area sit on former farmland or within second-growth forests that regenerated after the timber industry retreated in the early 1900s.
What to do
Hiking with water views: At North-South Lake Campground, trails connect to the historic Catskill Mountain House site with views across the Hudson Valley. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot. We had a wonderful weekend there," notes visitor Brittany W.
Creek exploration: Woodland Creek at Woodland Valley Campground provides cooling relief during summer months. "The mountain creek is like nature singing a lullaby - sleeping next to it was very relaxing; weather was great and we could see the stars through the canopy," reports John N.
Family water activities: Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds features a creek perfect for wading. "We took our chairs and plopped down in the water," mentions camper Kyla B., who stayed in the adults-only "Lover's Lane" section. Multiple campgrounds offer swimming areas suitable for children during peak summer season.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Kenneth L. Wilson Campground features spacious tent areas set back from access roads. "Site 9 was absolutely massive! It was set back very far from the main road and was an extremely large site," according to camper C R., who appreciated the privacy despite being near bathrooms and water.
Creekside camping: Phoenicia Black Bear Campground offers waterfront sites along the Esopus Creek. "I stayed at one of the creek front campsites and highly recommend doing so. They're slightly more expensive but the view is so worth it. The creek was perfect for dipping your feet and just hanging out," explains Derek W.
Wildlife sightings: Actual black bear encounters occur throughout the Catskills, including at campgrounds. "In the morning we woke up to a baby bear walking on our campsite. We kept our distance but that was definitely a thrill," reports a visitor to Phoenicia Black Bear Campground. Other campers have reported seeing deer, wild turkeys and porcupines.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds report minimal connectivity. "No cell service in the campground," notes one visitor to Kenneth L. Wilson Campground, while another mentions, "There was no cell service but that's the point, isn't it? You get to disconnect from it all for a while."
Spring water sources: Some primitive sites like Giant Ledge Primitive Camp require water planning. "The spring water source is a short hike back from the campsite, relatively convenient to restock from camp," shares John S. More developed campgrounds typically offer potable water spigots.
Seasonal bathroom limitations: Many smaller campgrounds close facilities early. "Bathrooms were a bit of a hike, but they were clean and had plenty of signage advising people during the pandemic," reports Katherine P. about Kenneth L. Wilson Campground. Some remote sites feature only pit toilets.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Jellystone Park Gardiner caters specifically to children. "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," shares Amanda S., who visited with children of varying ages.
Playground access: Devil's Tombstone Campground includes play areas for children. A visitor notes: "There is a playground for kids so you don't have to watch over them while you set up." Multiple campgrounds feature designated recreation areas for younger campers.
Off-site adventures: Area campgrounds provide access to regional attractions. Rip Van Winkle Campground visitor C O. explains: "My husband went on a work trip and left me alone for a few days and we left our rig to take the train (about 1 hr away in Poukeepsie) into the city for the weekend and we had no problems."
Tips from RVers
Limited large rig access: Many Catskill campgrounds have narrow access roads and size restrictions. "The long, narrow, and winding road from Route 28 to Woodland Valley campground should not keep you from camping there!" advises Gary G., acknowledging access challenges while still recommending the location.
Hookup availability: Thousand Trails Rondout Valley provides full RV services but sites vary. "The sewer connection in 372 ran uphill for me, but my pipe sits very low," reports Inez W., who relocated to a non-sewer site at this campground where Starlink worked better.
Level site selection: Many campgrounds feature sloped terrain. "Although No cell service site was nice. Was our first shakedown camping trip. Very nice (clean) bathrooms and showers. Private level site surrounded by trees," shares Daniel L. about Kenneth L. Wilson Campground, highlighting the importance of finding flat spots.
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