Dispersed camping opportunities near Voorheesville, New York include several options within the eastern Catskill Mountains region, where elevations range from 1,400 to 4,000 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most campgrounds in this region operate from May through October, with limited winter camping available at specific locations.
What to do
Hiking at Max V. Shaul State Park: This park offers multiple trails suitable for day hikes within a 30-minute drive from Voorheesville. "There is a children's playground and pavilion. Firewood is available to purchase," notes Darby R. about the park amenities. The trails connect to nearby waterfalls and scenic overlooks.
Fishing opportunities: Frosty Acres Campground maintains two fishing ponds where guests can fish without a license. "Two ponds to fish in, one you can swim in," explains James S. The ponds are stocked seasonally and support various fish species.
Cross-country skiing: Winter visitors staying at Frosty Acres Campground can access designated cross-country ski trails directly from their campsite. "You'll have the entire mountain side all to yourself! Snowshoe, cross country ski. Winter campfires," shares James S. about the winter camping section. Ski equipment rentals are available in nearby towns.
Weekend events: Many campgrounds host organized weekend activities throughout the season. "Themed weekends and an annual car show," mentions Rachel B. about the events at Frosty Acres. These events typically run Friday through Sunday during peak season months.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Max V. Shaul State Park Campground offers secluded camping with substantial natural barriers between sites. "Lots of space between sites. There is a well traveled road near the park so you get traffic noise," reports Tom S. Most tent sites include cleared areas approximately 20×20 feet.
Modern bathhouses: Several campgrounds have recently upgraded their facilities. "The bath house is clean and modern. $27.50/night for non-resident," notes Tom S. about Max V. Shaul State Park. Most renovated bathhouses include hot showers, flush toilets, and accessible facilities.
Seasonal camping options: Long-term seasonal spots are available at reasonable rates. "Seasonal rates are excellent. We stayed from April until October then decided to stay over winter," writes James S. about Frosty Acres Campground. Most seasonal sites offer full hookups and dedicated parking.
Family-friendly atmospheres: Country Roads Campground provides separate camping areas for different user groups. "Mainly an RV ground, but they have about 10-15 great tent sites back beyond the RV area. There are water spigots near all the tent sites and they are nice and spread out," explains William R.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the region only operate from May through mid-October. "May 15 to Columbus Day," is the listed season for Country Roads Campground. Reservations should be made at least 2-4 weeks in advance for summer weekends.
Winter camping limits: Only select campgrounds offer winter accommodation options. "They have a small winter section," notes James S. about Frosty Acres. Winter camping typically requires special reservation arrangements and may have limited facilities.
Campground renovations: Several properties have undergone recent improvements. "This campground has come so far in a short time! The new owners complete upgrades every season," explains Rachel B. about Frosty Acres Campground. Updated facilities often include new shower buildings, electric service upgrades, and enhanced common areas.
Variable water quality: Water systems at some campgrounds may have limitations. "The water! ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTING! I'm guessing the new owners didn't do as much as the previous owners as far as water treatments," warns Peter S. about Nickerson Park Campground. Bringing additional drinking water is recommended.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "There is a children's playground and pavilion," mentions Darby R. about Max V. Shaul State Park. These playgrounds typically include swings, climbing structures, and open field space for games.
Swimming options: Dedicated swimming areas with safety measures are available at select locations. "Kid friendly small pool," notes James S. about the swimming facilities at Frosty Acres. Most swimming areas operate from 10am-6pm during summer months.
Yurt camping Voorheesville, New York: For families seeking a balance between comfort and outdoor experience, Treetopia Campground offers yurt accommodations with electricity. "They have RV sites, yurts, custom furnished treehouses with electricity, beautiful tiny homes with outdoor living spaces, completely remodeled vintage airstreams, and gorgeous private cabins," explains Jeff & Steff's Excellent Adventure. Yurt rentals typically require 2-night minimum stays.
Family events: Organized activities for children occur regularly at many campgrounds. "They do fireside jams. I wish they'd bring back open mic!" shares Margaret L. about the family programming at Max V. Shaul State Park. Most events are included with camping fees.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Spacious Skies Woodland Hills accommodates larger RVs but requires careful site selection. "Flat ground area for camper was very narrow. Tricky footing for older folks like my wife and I," warns Ray P. RVs over 30 feet should request specific sites when making reservations.
Deck sites for smaller RVs: Some campgrounds offer specialized sites for compact RVs. "We went in late September and stayed on one of their deck sites with our Class B (Winnebago). I LOVED sitting out on the deck every morning for my coffee while taking in the fall air," shares Janly P. about the unique setup at Treetopia Campground. These sites typically fit RVs under 25 feet.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups, but most provide dump stations. "There is no sewer, but they have a dump-station and on-site Honeywagon truck that you can schedule," notes Jeff & Steff's Excellent Adventure about the services at Treetopia. Some locations charge additional fees for pump-out services.
Site escort services: Many RV-friendly campgrounds provide arrival assistance. "We were escorted to our site upon arrival and I certainly appreciated that as we were very tired after a long day of travel," explains Philip M. about the check-in process at Country Roads Campground.
