Tent camping opportunities near Staatsburg, New York extend beyond established campgrounds into the surrounding Catskill Mountains, where elevations range from 600 to over 4,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging from 55-85°F, while fall brings cooler nights dropping into the 30s. Camping is concentrated in state forests, wildlife management areas, and designated campgrounds throughout the Hudson Valley and Catskill region.
What to do
Hiking to mountain views: At Giant Ledge Primitive Camp, located approximately 30 miles west of Staatsburg, campers can access panoramic vistas after a moderately challenging ascent. According to a visitor, "It is a near vertical hike the first mile with 90% or more being over rock gardens. Not some rocks littering the trail. I think the trail used to be a stream or creek."
Rock climbing access: Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground serves as a hub for climbing enthusiasts. A reviewer notes, "This is a very nice modern campground with great access to amazing hiking and climbing in the area! About half the sites are walk-in and half the sites are drive-up."
Swimming in natural areas: The region offers several swimming spots, including at Lake Minnewaska. One camper reports, "We went to Sams point Overlook for a 6 mile hike and I highly recommend it. Both the campsite and hike trail were extremely clean, staff was friendly, and they were continuing to update the paths so you don't get misguided."
What campers like
Level tent sites: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained tent pads at Giant Ledge Primitive Camp. A reviewer shared, "Yes you can camp on top of the mountain. Yes you can make a cap fire. Yes you can star gaze by the views near the camp. It take the average hiker about an hour ish to get to camp/ledge view."
Community atmosphere: The Shawangunk Gateway Campground creates opportunities for social interaction. One camper explains, "Love this campground! Have been here several times and have never had a complaint. There are drive-up sites and also walk-in sites. No fire pits at individual campsites, though. Only a group fire pit."
Access to water features: Peekamoose Valley offers campsites along Rondout Creek. A visitor commented, "The upper field spots have a little more flat area and were more secluded. There was a fire pit with lots of wood available and flat ground for tents. The area was pretty big and we walked down the river to watch the sunset which was beautiful."
What you should know
Bear precautions required: Most campgrounds in the area have bear activity. At Echo Lake, a camper advised, "Make sure you practice leave no trace principles and pack out what you bring in! It does get a little crowded later in the day so you may have to share space with others and it can be a little noisy at night."
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: True primitive camping means no amenities. A camper at Hemlock Ridge MUA notes, "This isn't a fancy campsite and has no amenities. There is a small(10 car) parking lot and a trail that runs thru 80 acres of forest. Camping is allowed anywhere 150ft from the trail. Normal LNT rules apply. Bugs are relentless."
Reservation requirements: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Shawangunk Gateway Campground, one visitor observed, "We were assigned our reserved site rather than choosing it. A bit expensive without the AAC or Mohonk membership."
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed campgrounds: For families seeking the best tent camping near Staatsburg, New York, established sites provide necessary facilities. A visitor to The Peekamoose Valley shared, "This was a good campground for a base point for hiking around the peekamoose area. I stayed in the middle field campground site #6. BUT the other sites are nice right by the river, and there is plenty of privacy between spots."
Consider walk-in requirements: Many sites require carrying gear from parking areas. One camper noted about Peekamoose Valley, "I was in the lower area and had to walk pretty far with everything and make at least 6-8 trips for each load-in and out. I went and bought a wagon after the first day to carry the firewood down to our site."
Check seasonal bugs: Ticks and mosquitoes can be problematic in certain areas. A visitor to Peekamoose warned, "Peekamoose should be renamed Tic-a-Moose" and advised preventive measures for families.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near Staatsburg restrict or don't accommodate RVs. At Creek View Campground, one of the few places accepting both tents and smaller RVs, a camper noted, "If the AAC gunks campsite is full, this is unfortunately your best option if you want to camp near the gunks. you are about a 20 minute drive to the gunks from here."
Parking restrictions: Even at campgrounds that allow vehicles, space is limited. A reviewer at Hemlock Ridge MUA observed, "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight. There's no spectacular mountain views from above, but rather a quiet peaceful wooded area."
Consider seasonal access: Many forest roads become difficult or impassable during wet weather or winter months. A camper at Creek View noted, "you are basically camping in this guy's back yard, so dont expect any feeling of being in nature. you are also right next to the road and will hear some traffic."
