Best Campgrounds near Windham, NY
The Catskill Mountains surrounding Windham, New York feature a mix of developed campgrounds and primitive sites within a 30-mile radius. North-South Lake Campground in Haines Falls offers tent and RV camping with lake access, while Devil's Tombstone Campground in Hunter provides a more rustic experience. The region includes several state-operated facilities alongside private campgrounds like Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds, which offers cabin accommodations. Most developed campgrounds in the area maintain seasonal operations, typically open from May through October, with varying levels of amenities from basic tent sites to full RV hookups.
Camping season in the Catskills generally runs from mid-May through early October, with most facilities closing during winter months. Road access varies throughout the region, with some campgrounds requiring navigation of mountain roads. "The sites are well spaced out. Great for families. The lake is huge. Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds," notes one visitor about North-South Lake Campground. Cell phone coverage can be limited or non-existent at many locations, particularly in valley areas. Several campgrounds, including Woodland Valley and Devil's Tombstone, have limited or no cell service, requiring campers to plan accordingly. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, with cooler temperatures even during summer months, especially at higher elevations.
Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews, with North-South Lake and Kenneth L. Wilson campgrounds offering popular lake access. A camper described Kenneth L. Wilson as having "large campsites and most surrounded by trees, you will find just the right mix of privacy and community depending upon what you are looking for." Many campgrounds feature hiking trails either within the facilities or connecting to larger trail networks in the surrounding Catskill Forest Preserve. Wildlife sightings, including black bears, are common in the area, with proper food storage being essential. Campground amenities vary widely, from primitive sites with pit toilets to developed facilities with showers, playgrounds, and boat rentals. Most campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends and holiday periods when facilities often reach capacity.
