Catskill RV camping around West Kill includes sites at elevations between 1,900 and 3,500 feet, providing cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. The mountainous terrain creates challenges for larger vehicles on narrow access roads, with some campgrounds closing completely during winter months from late October through April due to heavy snowfall accumulation.
What to do
Lake activities: North-South Lake Campground features two connected lakes with swimming beaches, boat rentals, and fishing spots. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot. The restrooms were clean and had showers, which we did not expect," shares one visitor.
Trail exploration: North-South Lake Campground connects to numerous Catskill hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. "Great place to camp. The view from the town to the campground was amazing!" notes a camper who appreciated the mountain scenery.
Water recreation: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground offers a clean swimming beach and water activities. According to a visitor, "The lake is gorgeous and there are plenty of nearby hikes for exploring. Wish I would have brought my fishing pole."
Historic sites: Visit the nearby FDR National Historic Site about 30 minutes from Interlake RV Park. One camper mentioned, "It took me a while to identify a campground that was convenient for exploring the Hyde Park area, in particular the FDR National Historic Site."
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds offer raised wooden platforms that keep tents dry during wet weather. "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!" explains a camper at Lake Taghkanic State Park.
Clean facilities: Taconic State Park's Rudd Pond area receives positive reviews for maintenance. "New bath house with multiple shower rooms. Wonderful hiking trails. Pond for fishing & swimming. Kiddie pond, children's playground," reports one visitor.
Off-peak tranquility: Visiting outside holiday weekends provides a quieter experience. A North-South Lake camper advises, "Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds," while another mentions the campground is "always packed, but always beautiful."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access without requiring a boat. At Rudd Pond, a visitor reports: "Being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok!! There is plenty of fishing access from shore."
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Rondout Valley RV Campground and others have mixed reviews regarding site spacing. "This is a large family campground with tons of stuff to do, I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was," reports one camper, while another notes it's "not a concrete pad haven and yes, there is mud."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds close completely during winter months. Country Roads Campground operates from "May 15 to Columbus Day," while Arrowhead Marina & RV Park runs from "May 15 - Oct 15."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for local wildlife including raccoons, deer, and black bears. Food storage regulations are strictly enforced at most campgrounds to prevent unwanted animal visits.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically based on terrain. Higher elevation campgrounds typically offer better reception than those in valleys or dense forest.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Country Roads Campground offers organized activities for children. "They have special events in a pavilion near the RVs including bingo," notes one visitor who found it to be a "great family spot."
Swimming options: Lakes with designated swimming areas provide safer alternatives to river swimming. "Fun place, good camp. Two lakes. Highly recommended," reports a North-South Lake visitor.
Platform sites: For families with young children, platform sites keep sleeping areas drier. "Big and spacious state park with many camping options. Has options for trailers, tent sites, platforms for tents and even some cabins," shares a Lake Taghkanic visitor.
Avoid holiday crowds: Family campgrounds become extremely busy during summer holidays. One North-South Lake camper advises, "North South lake is one of the larger public camp grounds in New York. The sites are well spaced out. Great for families. The lake is huge."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Skyway Camping Resort offers full hookup sites but terrain varies. "Very nice and clean... Nice pool, this is a good family campground for kids. It large with nice size sites," reports one RVer who stayed there.
Advance reservations essential: Most rv campgrounds near West Kill, New York fill quickly during peak season, especially for full-hookup sites. Booking 6-9 months ahead is recommended for summer weekends.
Length restrictions: Many rv campsites in West Kill camping areas have maximum length limits due to tight turns and narrow roads. Measure your total vehicle length before booking.
Winter storage options: Interlake RV Park & Campground and some other rv parks near West Kill offer seasonal storage. "Some people stay here all summer. Close to FDR home and library...a must to see. Quaint towns nearby," notes a visitor.