The Catskill Mountains surrounding Willow, New York range from 1,000 to 4,000 feet in elevation, creating diverse camping environments from riverside sites to mountain retreats. This region experiences significant temperature swings, with higher elevations often 10-15°F cooler than valley locations. The camping season typically begins in May when daytime temperatures average 65-70°F and extends through mid-October when fall foliage peaks.
What to do
Creek exploration: Visit Woodland Valley Campground, which features a mountain creek that campers consistently praise. "The mountain creek is like nature singing a lullaby - sleeping next to it was very relaxing," notes John N., highlighting the natural water features that enhance the camping experience.
Hiking options: Tackle nearby trail networks that connect multiple campgrounds. One camper at Giant Ledge Primitive Camp reported, "From the parking area of Giant Ledge/Panther Mountain this was a fairly decent and semi challenging hike. We took our dog too." The trail network offers varying difficulty levels suitable for different hiking abilities.
Swimming and water activities: Enjoy lake access during summer months when water temperatures are warmest. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," shares Lizz H. about North-South Lake Campground, mentioning the lake's popularity for cooling off during hot summer days.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the roominess of certain campsites in the Willow area. A visitor to Kenneth L. Wilson Campground was particularly impressed with their experience: "We had a 3-day weekend tent camping at this site from July 24-26 2020, at site 58 on Loop C... Campsite is flat and packed dirt instead of gravel, which was great."
Creek-front locations: Sites along waterways receive consistently positive feedback. Derek W. from Phoenicia Black Bear Campground recommends: "They offer creek front and wooded campsites. Each comes with a fire ring and picnic tables. I stayed at one of the creek front campsites and highly recommend doing so. They're slightly more expensive but the view is so worth it."
Proximity to trails: Campers value sites that provide direct access to hiking opportunities. At Devil's Tombstone Campground, one reviewer notes, "This is hands down one of my favorite NYC escapes! A short drive to these rustic tent-only spots, dog friendly, nice rangers and great trees for hammocks!"
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Prepare for connectivity gaps throughout the Catskills region. At Echo Lake, visitors should expect complete disconnection. Similarly, at Kenneth L. Wilson Campground, Katherine P. observed: "There was no cell service in the campground."
Bear safety requirements: Practice proper food storage as bears are active in the area. Kane B. from Kenneth L. Wilson Campground shares a firsthand experience: "It was the wildest weekend I ever had, I'm not being sarcastic. The hiking areas are great, the weather is perfect and the bear was very nice for a bear."
Campsite availability: Reserve well ahead for peak summer weekends and during fall foliage season. For Giant Ledge Primitive Camp, one hiker cautions: "Getting a campsite up at the Giant Ledge area is hit or miss, as I only know of two. Both were empty when we arrived however."
Weather variability: Pack for temperature swings that can exceed 20°F between day and night, particularly at higher elevations. At Woodland Valley Campground, Gabrielle C. noted: "Cell service is limited, but that wasn't a problem for us."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose campgrounds with recreational facilities for children. Becky G. from Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds mentions: "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking."
Swimming options: Plan camping trips around water access for family entertainment. Eliany L. recommends North-South Lake Campground: "This campground has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single. Great place to camp."
Multiple campsite options: Book adjoining sites for larger family gatherings. Tom G. from Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds states: "I go here every year it's such a great campground," highlighting its repeat-visitor appeal for families.
Noise considerations: Research quieter loops for families with small children. At Kenneth L. Wilson Campground, campsites vary in proximity to roads, with a reviewer noting: "Campsites are fairly close together with a variety of levels of privacy. Ours allowed you to be pretty far back from the road for more privacy."
Tips from RVers
Site size verification: Confirm campsite dimensions before booking to ensure your RV fits comfortably. At Devil's Tombstone Campground, one camper cautioned: "When we arrived site reserved online was too small to fit two cars with being in the road even though the site was listed as fitting two vehicles."
Hookup availability: Check for specific electrical options as many Catskill campgrounds offer limited services. C O. from Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds notes: "Very easy to level and setup on #7. Full connections. Pay showers and laundry onsite."
Road access considerations: Research road conditions leading to campgrounds, especially for larger rigs. Gary G. describes the approach to Woodland Valley: "The long, narrow, and winding road from Route 28 to Woodland Valley campground should not keep you from camping there!"
