Spring Glen's camping season typically runs April through October, with the best camping weather occurring from mid-May through early September when temperatures average 75-85°F during the day and 55-65°F at night. The region sits at elevations ranging from 400 to 2,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates between valley campgrounds and ridge-top sites. Several campgrounds feature creek access, with water levels highest in spring and after summer storms.
What to do
Hiking from camp: Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground offers direct access to Mohonk Preserve trails. "Located really close to the Gunks for climbing and also some great hikes around the area," notes Jackie B., who recommends the campground for outdoor enthusiasts seeking proximity to trails.
Fishing opportunities: Winding Hills Park provides lakeside fishing with no additional permits required beyond a New York fishing license. "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," explains Amanda B.
Family recreation: Jellystone Park Gardiner includes numerous structured activities for children throughout the week. "This campground is great for kids. It has a event just about every weekend with kid activity," shares Jennifer I., highlighting the programming that distinguishes this campground from others in the region.
Water activities: Winding Hills Park features a lake suitable for non-motorized boating, though swimming isn't allowed. "By the pond there is a nice sized picnic area with many picnic tables and grills. Another playground and a large pavilion," mentions Amanda B., describing the facilities that support day-use activities.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many campers praise the water-adjacent sites at Woodland Valley Campground. "If you like to camp by water, this is the perfect place for you. It has amazing on the water sites you can camp at, plus a stunning view of the Catskills," writes Meike W., emphasizing the appeal of falling asleep to the sound of flowing water.
Clean facilities: Thousand Trails Rondout Valley receives praise for its upkeep and amenities. "There must be new management because many upgrades have been made over the past year which include all new SWE (full hookups) street lighting, and campground markings/numbering," notes Scott, highlighting recent improvements.
Privacy between sites: Boulder Point Campground offers more secluded camping options than many other area facilities. "Stunning primitive camping," writes Ashley F., noting the campground's balance of basic amenities with natural surroundings.
Pool access: New York City North-Newburgh KOA provides swimming facilities valued by summer visitors. "They have 2 pools which require signing up ahead of time for 1 hour slots," explains April L., describing the pool reservation system implemented during busy periods.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically between campgrounds, with higher elevation sites typically offering better service. "There was no mobile signal, but that's the point, isn't it? You get to disconnect from it all for a while," writes John N. about Woodland Valley Campground, highlighting the digital detox aspect many campers appreciate.
Bathroom conditions: Facility quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "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 Jellystone Park Gardiner, noting weekend capacity issues during peak season.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking for weekend stays from June through August, though some allow walk-ins. "Reservations are needed only for major holidays during camping season; Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day. Must book the entire holiday weekend 3 days," explains Amanda B. regarding Winding Hills Park's policy.
Noise considerations: Campgrounds vary in their enforcement of quiet hours. "We had site 31 (drive up) and I recommend that as it is near the comfort station and back enough from the road and other sites that you have some space to yourself," recommends Cory D. about Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Campground activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Birchwood Acres offers structured programming specifically for children. "They have activities on the weekends with Yogi the mascot such as wagon rides, dance parties, arts n crafts," reports Sambath T., highlighting the organized entertainment available.
Water features for kids: Several campgrounds provide water play areas beyond traditional swimming pools. "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," explains Amanda S. about Jellystone Park Gardiner.
Playground access: Many regional campgrounds include playground equipment for different age groups. "The resort is decked out with 2 playgrounds, a splash park, kiddie pool, family pool and hot tub," notes Sambath T. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Birchwood Acres.
Off-peak visits: For quieter family camping, consider mid-week stays when possible. "The campground was well maintained overall...Originally I thought it was the gloom of the weather that made this place seem pretty plain and run down. But now that its a beautiful day, the grounds are about the same," reports Sammii D. about Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
Tips for RVers
Site selection: Korns Campgrounds offers water and electric hookups even at tent sites, providing flexibility for small RVs. "We parked right next to our camp site and had water, fire pit, outlets, and our car all in one area," notes Daniella P., describing the convenient layout.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds offer sanitary dump stations, though availability and hours may be limited. "Dump stations if need and a service to come to your rig to collect waste if you don't want to move it," mentions Robert M. about Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, highlighting an unusual service option.
Hookup limitations: Not all sites with power provide full 50-amp service. "We had a nice full hookup site minus the neighbors' weekend ragers," reports Kasey M. about Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, noting the social dynamics that can affect RV camping experiences.
Size restrictions: Many area campgrounds cannot accommodate large Class A motorhomes or fifth wheels. "This property has several sites for you to setup your tent, camper, van, or RV (only small tow behinds or popups, no large RVs)," clarifies Ashley F. regarding Boulder Point Campground.
