Best Campgrounds near West Shokan, NY
The Catskill Mountains around West Shokan, New York provide multiple camping environments ranging from primitive tent sites to full-service RV campgrounds. Kenneth L. Wilson Campground, located near Mt. Tremper, offers wooded sites with electric hookups, showers, and boat access. Other developed campgrounds in the region include Woodland Valley near Phoenicia and North-South Lake near Haines Falls. The area contains a mix of state-operated facilities and private campgrounds, with accommodations for tents, RVs, and in some locations, cabins or glamping options.
Seasonal operation is standard throughout the region, with most developed campgrounds open from May through early October. Campgrounds typically require reservations, especially during peak summer weekends and fall foliage season. Water access varies between locations, with some campgrounds offering lake activities like kayaking and canoeing. Bathroom facilities range from basic vault toilets to shower houses with running water. Cell service can be limited or nonexistent at most campgrounds. A camper noted, "No cell service in the campground. We camped in September and the campground was pretty empty = nice and peaceful."
Wildlife encounters, including bears, are possible throughout the area, with many campgrounds requiring proper food storage. Campers report spacious, wooded sites at Kenneth L. Wilson Campground, with good privacy between most sites. Several visitors mentioned the proximity to hiking trails as a key highlight, with Giant Ledge and other popular Catskill trails accessible within a short drive. The region provides access to nearby towns including Woodstock and Phoenicia for supplies or dining options. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, quieter camping experiences are generally available on weekdays, while weekends see higher occupancy rates. "Large and heavily wooded! Enjoyed our stay even on a busy weekend. They have a lake on site with swimming. We happened to spend the weekend on a day with free canoe/kayak rentals which was great!"