The Catskill Mountains near Woodridge, New York feature elevations ranging from 1,000 to over 4,000 feet, creating diverse tent camping environments with varied temperatures throughout the year. The region's terrain consists primarily of hardwood forests interspersed with rocky outcroppings, streams, and small lakes. During summer months, temperatures can drop significantly at night, with evenings often 15-20 degrees cooler than daytime highs.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 10-minute hike from Pennsylvania shore when camping at Namanock Island. "There are waterfalls on the Pennsylvania shore within a quick walking distance of your location that are very much worth the time it takes to walk the trail," notes John B.
Rock climbing access: The Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground provides direct access to world-class climbing. "Located really close to the Gunks for climbing and also some great hikes around the area," explains Jackie B., making it ideal for climbers seeking tent camping near Woodridge, New York.
Night sky viewing: With minimal light pollution at higher elevations, sites like Giant Ledge Primitive Camp offer exceptional stargazing. "Yes you can star gaze by the views near the camp," says Ryan, who notes the benefit of camping at elevation for celestial observation.
Hiking to fire towers: Several peaks near Woodridge feature historic fire towers with panoramic views. "We also hiked the balsam lake fire tower which had nice views of the area," shares Erik C. about his camping experience at Alder Lake.
What campers like
Primitive solitude: Winter camping offers exceptional isolation at The Peekamoose Valley. "Camped out at one of the sites by the river and it was amazing, no one was around except a man far from our site," reports Kelsey about off-season camping.
Island camping experience: Unique overnight stays on water-surrounded campsites. "How can you go wrong, camping on an island... once darkness falls there are no lights to be seen in either direction, up or down river," explains a Namanock Island camper.
Walk-in privacy: Tent sites requiring short hikes offer better seclusion. "We stayed in the middle field. On a Wednesday night in early September I had the whole campground to myself," notes Cameron about Peekamoose Valley, highlighting the benefit of mid-week camping.
Wildlife observation: Many sites provide opportunities for bird watching and animal spotting. "Saw tons of bald eagles flying near the site and while paddles birds playing and baby geese with their mommas!" reports Sean M. while kayaking to his campsite.
What you should know
Bear activity awareness: Bears are common throughout the Catskills region. "Thought I heard bears come through overnight, but may have been a lucid dream. Bear can was undisturbed in the morning," reports John S. at Giant Ledge, emphasizing proper food storage is essential.
Water sources: Few sites provide potable water. "The spring water source is a short hike back from the campsite, relatively convenient to restock from camp," notes John S. about water availability at Giant Ledge.
Seasonal challenges: Winter camping requires additional preparation. "We stayed here mid-March and although it was a little chilly at night, overall a great spot," shares Nora S. about Alder lake highlighting the need for proper cold-weather gear.
Road conditions: Access to some areas requires navigating rough roads. "It was very bumpy. Some might say 4*4 but we made it just fine in our little Camry," explains Nora S. regarding access to Alder Lake.
Insects: Depending on location and season, bugs can be problematic. "The only thing was there was no port-a-potty at the upper field. There was a fire pit with lots of wood available and flat ground for tents," notes a camper at Peekamoose Valley.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water access: For families with children, look for sites with gentle water entry. "The setting was nice, close to the creek, with a stone fire ring at each," describes a Peekamoose Valley visitor, noting the kid-friendly water proximity.
Avoid steep terrain: Some sites require difficult climbs that aren't suitable for young children. "It is a near vertical hike the first mile with 90% or more being over rock gardens," warns Caleb J. about Giant Ledge Primitive Camp, suggesting families with small children consider alternate locations.
Comfort amenities: For families new to tent camping near Woodridge, some sites offer more facilities. "Communal fire pit and supplied wood. Covered communal pavilion with picnic tables, big sinks for washing dishes, and lighting," describes Mollie R. about the Samuel F. Pryor III campground's amenities.
Food storage solutions: Sites with bear lockers simplify camping with kids. "There were bear lockers but I just cooked at the car in the parking lot," mentions Emily M. about her experience at Shawangunk Gateway Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most primitive camping in the Catskills region restricts vehicle size. "I have a Nissan rogue and made it in no problem. I would not drive an rv in here except maybe a small type trailer," advises Gregg T. about Elks Brox Memorial Park near Port Jervis.
Roadside alternatives: For those with roof-top tents or small vans. "We have a roof top tent and we were stopping in the middle of a long drive so we just waited until dark and popped it in the parking lot and then left in the morning," shares Tamar W. about improvising at Peekamoose Valley.
Advance scouting recommended: Check road conditions before attempting RV access. "The place is pretty easy to access with paved road the whole way there except for the last 1/2 mile where it is very bumpy," notes Nora S. about Alder Lake access for vehicles.
