175 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The western Catskills region surrounding Walton, New York features a mix of established campgrounds and primitive sites within a 30-mile radius. Bear Spring Mountain DEC campground in nearby Downsville provides drive-in access for both tents and RVs with full hookup options, while Little Pond Campground in Andes offers a more secluded experience with waterfront sites and remote walk-in options. Beals Pond State Forest provides free dispersed camping for those seeking a more primitive experience. Oquaga Creek State Park Campground in Bainbridge and Peaceful Valley Campsite in Downsville round out the options with cabin rentals and glamping accommodations alongside traditional camping sites.
Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from mid-May through early October, with limited winter access. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with many campers reporting no signal at locations like Little Pond. According to one visitor: "There is no cell service as soon as you turn into the park. I didn't even find an area where I could temporarily send and receive messages." Reservations are recommended for established campgrounds, particularly for weekend stays during summer months. The region experiences typical Northeast weather patterns with hot, occasionally humid summers and cold winters. Many forest roads leading to primitive sites may require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rainfall when conditions deteriorate.
Waterfront camping locations receive consistently positive reviews, with pond and river access being major draws. At Beaverkill Campground, one camper noted: "I loved how close the river was to our campground, only a few steps away." Privacy levels vary considerably between sites, with some campgrounds offering spacious, well-separated sites while others place campers in closer proximity. Wildlife sightings, including deer, bears, and various bird species, are commonly reported. Hiking trails connect many campgrounds to larger trail networks in the surrounding state forests and preserves. Fishing opportunities abound in the area's ponds, streams, and rivers, with the Beaverkill stream particularly noted for its fly fishing. Most established campgrounds provide basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to drinking water.
"Went here with some friends who had never been outside NYC before. They were absolutely blown away. For me, it was a nice site but not exceptional. Bring or rent a kayak!"
"I drove to NYC for a business trip and ended up driving 1 and a half hour to reach this place. I always carry a tent in the back of my trunk and decided to go camping."
from $18 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Great little lake for swimming & fishing. Weather was miserable so proximity to Cooperstown was a plus. No cell service or wifi which didnt bother me but could some."
"Love the layout, with camp sites having mowed paths to the restrooms and showers in the middle of each loop. Nicest showers and rest rooms we have seen so far."
from $17 - $150 / night
Check Availability"Pros: Near wonderful, little-used hiking trails - challenging ones, too!
- Close to Catskill town options to explore, e.g."
"You can see a picture here of the water just a 10 foot trail away from our campsite. All in all a great trip."
from $22 / night
Check Availability"Great location with full hook-ups. Nice riverside spots. Quiet during the week. Nice place to stay"
"Great location with nice riverside spots. Weekdays are quiet, weekends not so much. Full hook-ups. Owners are friendly and great. Reccomended, especially during the week."
"A bit off the beaten path for a KOA, but nearly sold out in early October nonetheless. Sites range from typical large rig to dispersed tents next to a creek."
"We were right next to a small brook, and falling asleep to the sound of the water behind our tent was amazing. Everyone we met was super friendly. We will definitely be back!"
"As close to nature as possible with modern conveniences still nearby. Terri and her gang do a great job of running her Dad's adventure."
"Great access to the beaverkill. It’s perfect for a quick getaway."
"This was the sweetest campground around!! They deliver fire wood right to your site along with anything else you need."
"Great for kids, kinda close to busy roads but close to convenient shopping and local activities when they open back up."
"This campground was so pleasant, very clean and quiet, I loved how close the river was to our campground, only a few steps away."
"Bathrooms were very cleaned and everybody respected COVID-related social distancing. Would come again!"
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability
ScoutOctober leaves starting to fall makes for a very quiet, peaceful midweek evening in one of the two dispersed car camping sites. Exactly what I was hoping for - private and empty and lovely. Easy to find - two dispersed car sites are to the left at the fork in the road before the trailhead.
ScoutI stayed here in March 2026 for a night before going snowboarding at Belleayre Mountain. It was in the middle of a snowstorm on a Tuesday night, so I had the whole place to myself, which was nice.
ScoutSpaces were easy in/out. Mature trees between sites. Pool, office, pickleball, k9kamp, bathrooms were all nice.
Travelerbeautiful quiet space, great home base for the Catskills and small towns around here. note there's only a few spots. road conditions were fine.
ScoutThis clothing-optional campground has a highly toxic, intrusive, and vindictive environment. During my stay, the seasonal permanent residents('perms') subjected me to intense harassment, inappropriate sexual advances, and severe social retaliation/rumor-spreading when those advances were rejected. The situation escalated to the point where an employee had to intervene for my safety. Furthermore, despite management allowing my photo to be taken in costume at a party, I was intentionally blocked from the community group where the photos were posted, leaving me unable to monitor how my image was being used. Avoid this place if you value your privacy, personal boundaries, and safety.
GuideWe went the 2nd week of October and seems like we had just missed the foliage peak but it was still beautiful.
Everyone minded their business and most sites were 2-4 people, showers were clean and warm but the kind where you gotta push the button every 30 seconds. Toilets were clean and running smoothly (we were in the southernmost loop, closest to the camp office)
No cellphone reception but we could get satellite signal to text our loved ones that we were alive and well!
We loved the hiking and especially kayaking on the pond
GuideWe were in campsite 20 with lots of room. The first night we were there we were near very loud groups which was difficult to sleep through. The next night everyone cleared out and we had a peaceful crowd. Bathrooms are nice, the park has great hiking trails and a nice day use area! There is also an area where we can rent canoes. I would definitely return, just wish there was a little more crowd control.
ScoutWe really loved this spot- it was relaxing to listen to the sounds of the creek and not having any camping neighbors. The night sky was filled with stars and we even saw a rocket. I also appreciated having an outhouse on site- i would say the only downside was having to take our bag of poop+pee out with us when we left (site rules). The only other thing that was bothersome was being told that wood is provided at the site and then not realizing until after we got there that we would have to Venmo the owner $10 per bundle (I don’t mind paying, just wouldn’t been nice to know ahead of time that it wasn’t included in the price). I recommend this site for anyone who enjoys privacy and doesn’t mind a detox from WiFi.
GuideReally liked it. Love the layout, with camp sites having mowed paths to the restrooms and showers in the middle of each loop. Nicest showers and rest rooms we have seen so far. Each site has brush between them so you can not see your neighbors. Pretty, quiet, relaxing. The groomed hiking trails are the best and Arctic Lake is beautiful. Staff were so nice, and loved doing the scavenger hunt!
Campsites near Walton, New York sit in the western Catskills at elevations between 1,200-2,200 feet. The region features a mix of hardwood forests, rolling hills, and meandering waterways with cool nights even during summer months. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while spring and fall camping requires additional cold-weather gear due to nighttime temperatures that can drop below 40°F.
Hiking trails access: Tall Pines Campground offers easy access to multiple trail systems. "We were able to access several great hiking trails directly from our campsite without driving anywhere," reports one visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Bear Spring Mountain — DEC provides excellent trout fishing in streams that remain cold even during summer months. "Nothing but woods all around! Endless hiking and beautiful steams - you can drink straight from the pipes!" notes Kimberly S.
Wildlife viewing: At Russell Brook Campsites, you'll find abundant wildlife in the surrounding forests. "Our site was massive (39) and had direct access to Russell Brook. Couldn't keep my son out of the water. Very peaceful. Felt like we had the place to ourselves," shares Mike C.
Swimming access: Oquaga Creek State Park offers a dedicated swimming area with lifeguards during peak season. "Nice park with area loops that all have a central bath house. Lake with a nice beach and swimming area. Carry in boating," reports Mary H.
Privacy between sites: Little Pond Campground offers walk-in sites that provide greater seclusion. "We had a walk in site and it was fantastic! Right on the water and pretty private. Each walk in site has its own bear box and outhouse," writes Lauren S.
River sounds: At Beaverkill Campground, many sites sit directly along the water. "The site we had was right on the river, so it was pretty and the sound of the water was pleasant," notes Guy M.
Star gazing: Oquaga Creek State Park provides excellent night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "You can kayak and swim in the lake, and see incredible stars at night. Would recommend bringing your bikes," writes Ann F.
Clean facilities: Bear Spring Mountain maintains well-kept bathrooms and common areas. "Clean, private, and quiet! We had a blast!!" shares Amanda P.
Cell service limitations: Beals Pond State Forest has no cellular coverage in most areas. "This state forest is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon," reports Joshua M.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences rapid temperature changes, particularly in spring and fall. Overnight lows can drop below 40°F even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s.
Bear safety requirements: Russell Brook Campsites enforces strict food storage rules. "Just Wonderful. Have stayed at RB multiple times over the years since Charlie ran the place. It's an awesome visit to the woods. As close to nature as possible with modern conveniences still nearby," writes Brian J.
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds in the region require reservations 2-6 months in advance for summer weekends, while weekday availability remains better throughout the season.
Kid-friendly water features: Tall Pines Riverfront Campground offers dedicated swimming areas for children. "I have been coming here since I was a kid and now take my family too. My 3 year old loves the swimming pool and the ice cream and craft carts that come around," says Abigayle R.
Equipment recommendations: For walk-in sites at Little Pond Campground, bring gear with wheels. "Do recommend bringing something with wheels. It's not too far from the parking lot, but it's far enough to be annoying to carry everything," suggests Lauren S.
Activity options: Oquaga Creek State Park provides family-oriented recreation beyond camping. "Memorial Day weekend, campground was full but never felt crowded. Sites are large with a good buffer, fire ring & grill. Good mix of tent & trailer. Staff was pleasant and helpful. Great little lake for swimming & fishing," writes Cheryl S.
Wildlife education: Bear Spring Mountain offers opportunities to spot local wildlife safely. "Lots of wildlife! There are two areas for camping, check out both though one smells kind of like a barn. Site was typical of state park campgrounds, all up to expectations. Obey bear rules!" advises Amber A.
Site selection: Unadilla KOA offers premium waterfront sites for larger rigs. "It looks like permanent campers take up most of the real estate along the stream, but we lucked out with a spot one row back with two empty sites in front of us. With the autumn foliage, it was a spectacular camp site. No problems getting out 40ft coach parked," reports Laura H.
Power adapter requirements: Some campgrounds require specific power adapters. "The tent sites with electric like the one we took used 240v 50A plugs, so we had to borrow a converter plug from the office for our 120v equipment," notes Deborah W. at Unadilla KOA.
Off-season advantages: Visiting in early spring or late fall offers greater site selection and fewer crowds. "Weekdays are quiet, weekends not so much. Full hook-ups. Owners are friendly and great. Recommended, especially during the week," shares Dave S. about Peaceful Valley Campsite.
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven sites at some campgrounds. "Our site had a nice concrete pad, but the parking spot was mud. In fact, we could never get level because our blocks kept sinking," warns Sue G. about Tall Pines Riverfront Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Walton, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, Walton, NY offers a wide range of camping options, with 175 campgrounds and RV parks near Walton, NY and 17 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Walton, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Walton, NY is Bear Spring Mountain — DEC with a 4.4-star rating from 7 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Walton, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 free dispersed camping spots near Walton, NY.
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