Margaret Norrie State Park Campground is set in the Hudson Valley region at approximately 200 feet elevation, offering riverside camping experiences from May through October. The area experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season, with cooler nights that provide relief from daytime heat. Wooded tent sites and RV accommodations can be found throughout the Ulster Park area, with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The Ulster Park area connects to trail systems leading to impressive waterfalls. Rebecca Y. noted about Mills Norrie State Park Campground: "Close to town so easy to grab needed items. It was situated right across the Hudson River from a highly active nighttime freight train route."
Rock climbing access: The Shawangunk Mountains (known as "the Gunks") offer world-class climbing opportunities. "Love this campground! Have been here several times and have never had a complaint... Located really close to the Gunks for climbing and also some great hikes around the area," says Jackie B. about Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground.
Lake activities: North-South Lake provides swimming and boating options for cooling off. Chris D. mentioned: "I've recently started going there again with my own family and it's great to see them take the same enjoyment I did. Camping, swimming, hiking, boating, biking, this place has it all."
What campers like
Creek-side relaxation: Many pet-friendly sites feature stream access for natural cooling. Kyla B. shared about Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds: "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."
Wooded privacy: Shaded sites offer welcome relief from summer heat. "The campsite was nicely maintained and space was restricted between sites due to Covid. Firewood wasn't available at the camp, had to drive about a mile to grab some," notes Rebecca Y. about her stay at Mills Norrie.
Well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds regularly update amenities for comfort. "The bathroom facilities were a little dated but clean. The camp store is big. The staff were friendly enough," says Susan P. about New York City North-Newburgh KOA.
What you should know
Site selection strategy: Not all sites offer the same experience or amenities. "We LOVED our site (site 9). It was absolutely massive! The photo doesn't do it justice. It was set back very far from the main road and was an extremely large site!" shares C R. about Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground.
Wildlife awareness: The region has active wildlife including bears. Phillip L. warns: "There are bears and if you leave food out you will get a warning notice if seen. The rangers were really nice and would go up to you can introduce themselves."
Seasonal variations: Weather can change quickly in the mountains. "We stayed one night in late September without a reservation. Bathhouse is old but was adequate with hot showers. We're from out of state and paid about $23 for a tent site which was reasonable for the facilities," notes Cheryl K.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Ulster Park offer structured programming. Amanda S. says about Jellystone Park Gardiner: "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. My older kids preferred a deeper pool but they still had a great time."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds are quieter than others for families needing rest. "Very easy to level and setup on #7. Full connections. Pay showers and laundry onsite. Loved having gated security," reports C O. about Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds.
Natural play areas: Streams provide entertainment for children and dogs alike. John N. describes Woodland Valley Campground: "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 - very very enjoyable!"
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some pet-friendly campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring preparation. "When i came I was really impressed with the improvements they made here. I haven't came her in 3 years and it looks better than ever. They constructed a really nice fishing pier. The sites were well taken of by other campers and almost look brand new," shares phillip L. about Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson.
Hookup availability: Water and electric access varies widely between campgrounds. Scott from Thousand Trails Rondout Valley notes: "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."
Weekend vs. weekday differences: Occupancy patterns affect the camping experience. "Outdoor lovers dream. Deserted during the week but packed on weekends. Sites are large and spread nicely," explains Michael G. about Mills Norrie State Park Campground.
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