Glamping options in the Catskills region extend across eastern Sullivan County, with accommodations situated between 1,000-2,000 feet elevation. The area experiences distinct seasons with autumn temperature ranges of 30-60°F, making wood stoves particularly valuable during overnight stays. Camping facilities cluster along the Neversink River valley and surrounding highlands, offering both waterfront and mountain ridge camping environments.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: The High Point State Park Campground area provides access to the Appalachian Trail with varying difficulty levels. "I spent two nights camping with my niece and this campground was perfect. The site was maybe a 50-yard walk-in and we barely heard anyone around us and had a real wilderness feel. We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite," notes a visitor to High Point State Park Campground.
Water activities: Campers can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating at various lakes within 30 minutes of Woodridge. A visitor at High Point State Park mentioned, "We swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake. The slight downside was that we had to drive between the different lakes."
Children's activities: Family-centered options include dedicated recreation areas within 20 minutes of Woodridge. At Jellystone Park Gardiner, a visitor shared, "This campground is great for kids. It has an event just about every weekend with kid activity." Another camper noted, "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."
What campers like
Secluded spots: Campsites with more privacy can be found on elevated terrain around Woodridge. A visitor at Osa Trail remarked, "We had a great time staying here. It's a very beautiful campsite. There's lots of great hiking and activities in the area."
River access: Waterfront camping is available at multiple locations where the Neversink River passes through the region. A camper at Oakland Valley Campground shared, "We spent most of early spring at Oakland Valley right on the river. Even though covid really forced a shutdown on activities, this was one of my kids' favorite places of the year. They loved to fish and play in the river, explore the woods and ride bikes around."
Year-round options: Some facilities remain open during winter months, including glamping sites with heating. "Beautiful campsite was a nice and quiet stop on our way home from a trip to Vermont," noted a visitor at Oakland Valley Campground. Another camper added, "Nice, family friendly campground with 3 levels to camp at. Top level has a pool, showers and bathrooms with laundry area and game room. Middle level has open field with bathrooms with sinks and running water."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Terrain varies significantly between camping areas, with some sites being notably uneven. A visitor at High Point State Park Campground warned, "The photos did not convey the actual steepness of this site!! The gravel driveway is on a 30-40 degree incline. The tent was too long for the 12'x10' platform, so we had to set it up on the flattest part and hope not to roll down the hill in the night."
Bathroom facilities: Quality and availability of facilities varies widely across campgrounds. At Thousand Trails Rondout Valley, a camper noted, "This is what I want for a Catskill campground. It is not a concrete pad haven and yes, there is mud. Our site was even and easy to level on. Lots of locals and summer residents."
Noise levels: Some campgrounds have inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours. At Kittatinny Campground, a camper reported, "Busy campground no quiet time loud music till 3 in the morning. Very clean, workers very friendly and helpful but after dark no one around. If you're looking for a peaceful campground not the place to go."
Tips for camping with families
Choose family-focused sites: Select campgrounds with dedicated children's areas and scheduled activities. A visitor to Jellystone Park Gardiner explained, "This is a very nice campground for families. Has a lot of activities and facilities for campers. It is a bit more open and campsite can be a bit close to each other. But the place was very clean and friendly."
Check pool facilities: Swimming options vary in size and features. At Jellystone Park, a camper noted, "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. My older kids preferred a deeper pool but they still had a great time."
Consider alternative accommodations: Glamping near Woodridge offers easier setup with children. At Neversink River Resort, a visitor shared, "We went with a few families and had a nice time. It is very basic and that worked for us. We were just there for the weekend to sit around the fire and catch up with friends. They had the bounce pillow and a small pool."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Uneven terrain requires planning at many campgrounds. A visitor to Thousand Trails Rondout Valley mentioned, "Nice, quiet place. Our site was up front and we didn't venture into the park. We did use the laundry room, which needed some updates, especially some lighting."
Full hookup availability: Services vary across the Woodridge area. An RVer at Neversink River Resort said, "Our spot backed up to the river, which was great, but we had to try 2 different spots because some of them are VERY unlevel."
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds close water connections during colder months. A visitor to Rondout Valley noted, "This was my first stay at any TT campground and I wasn't sure what to expect. While I don't have other TT campgrounds to compare this to, I do have a lot of experience in state parks and private campgrounds. If you are looking for an RV resort-type place, this isn't it. If you are looking for a CAMPground, this is a wonderful place!"
