Camping sites near Woodridge, New York offer access to the southeastern Catskill region, situated between 1,100-1,400 feet in elevation with moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak season. The area receives approximately 44 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forest conditions that provide natural shade at most campsites. The camping season typically runs longer than many Catskill locations due to the protected valley positioning.
What to do
Hiking from camp: Woodland Valley Campground provides direct access to the Slide Mountain Wilderness. As one camper noted, "Hiked the slide mountain loop the next morning. We asked in the am if there was anything available for the evening after our hike - there was not but they said we could have first dibs once we got back."
Creek exploration: Woodland Valley Campground features a mountain creek that enhances the camping experience. "The mountain creek is like nature singing a lullaby - sleeping next to it was very relaxing; weather was great and we could see the stars through the canopy - very very enjoyable," shared one visitor.
Water recreation: Multiple waterways provide opportunities for summer activities. At Neversink Sanctuary, campers can enjoy "kayaking, tubing, birdwatching and fishing" according to site information. The property offers private access to water activities without crowds.
Local exploration: The region contains several small towns within a 20-minute drive. One camper staying at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley mentioned, "The nearby towns are adorable and offer shopping, hiking, farms, and more."
What campers like
Riverside sites: Proximity to water remains highly valued by campers. One visitor to Never Sink Hideaway shared, "The campsite is gorgeous and right on the river. The rushing water is the perfect soundtrack to fall asleep to."
Pool facilities: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming pools as alternatives to natural water bodies. A visitor to Jellystone Park Gardiner commented, "Nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone or they have a 3 ft pool also."
Privacy between sites: Despite being established campgrounds, many locations offer separation between campsites. A Peekamoose Valley camper observed, "The setting was nice, close to the creek, with a stone fire ring at each. You can see the folks in the next site but there's quite a bit of privacy."
Natural ambiance: The surrounding forest creates a peaceful atmosphere. As noted at Woodland Valley, "No mobile signal, but that's the point, isn't it? You get to disconnect from it all for a while."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the region close during winter months. For example, Skyway Camping Resort operates "May 1 - Oct 14" while Jellystone Park at Birchwood Acres runs "May 1 to Columbus Day."
Bathroom facilities vary: Quality and availability of restrooms differs between locations. A camper at Jellystone Park Gardiner noted issues: "Very few for the number of sites and people it covers. They need to add more bathrooms. They rarely cleaned the bathroom in all the 6 days that I stayed."
Maintenance differences: Some campgrounds maintain facilities better than others. At Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, a visitor observed, "Our site was even and easy to level on. Lots of locals and summer residents. Our biggest issue was that they are still training their staff how to deal with families."
Limited cell service: Most locations have minimal connectivity. One Woodland Valley camper reported, "No/ very limited cell service but that's not important." Consider downloading offline maps before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Campgrounds with organized events keep children engaged. A visitor to Jellystone Park Gardiner shared, "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore. I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there."
Site selection matters: Location within campgrounds affects experience. "We got a red carpet site by the Gaga pit and near the water park (Cindy bear lane) and it was a convenient yet noisy site. Kids were at the playground 8 am or before and the noise woke us up."
Water features: Skyway Camping Resort offers "a nice pool, this is a good family campground for kids. It's large with nice size sites," according to a recent visitor. Many families prioritize swimming options during summer months.
Transportation options: Some larger resorts offer on-site transport. One family noted about Jellystone Park, "Make sure you reserve a golf cart if you stay during the weekend- it's a must have to get from place to place and our little guy loved it!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: At some campgrounds, utilities may be positioned awkwardly. One RVer at Thousand Trails noted, "The sewer connection in 372 ran uphill for me, but my pipe sits very low."
Technology concerns: Satellite internet users may face challenges. "My Starlink didn't work at the first site (372 - full hookup) but they let me choose another site (435 - no sewer) and I was happy as a clam," shared an RVer at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley.
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds accommodate various RV sizes but with limitations. Jellystone Park at Birchwood Acres is described as "big-rig-friendly" but site dimensions aren't specified, so calling ahead is recommended.
Leveling requirements: Terrain varies significantly between and within campgrounds. A camper at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley mentioned having a site that was "even and easy to level on," but conditions can vary by specific site number.
