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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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.
