Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Woodstock, New York, where the Catskill Mountains create diverse terrain between 1,000-4,000 feet elevation. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F, making May through October the primary camping season. Many campgrounds maintain operations from mid-May to early October, with limited availability during colder months.
What to do
Hiking the Devils Path: Echo Lake offers a starting point for access to challenging mountain trails. As Kate notes, "This campground was my first backpacking trip and it was perfect! There are tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits and 1 lean-to site at the end of the trail when you first arrive at the lake."
Swimming options: North-South Lake Campground provides multiple water recreation opportunities. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," reports Lizz H. The campground features two lakes with designated swimming areas maintained from late spring through early fall.
Creek relaxation: At Phoenicia Black Bear Campground, creek access creates cooling opportunities during summer months. According to Derek W., "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. The creek was perfect for dipping your feet and just hanging out."
Waterfall viewing: Multiple campgrounds provide access to regional waterfalls. Jessica W. recommends North-South Lake for its proximity to "the newly opened (as of 2016) viewing platform for Kaasterskill falls, which is minutes down the road from the campground."
What campers like
Lean-to access: Echo Lake features a rustic shelter for campers preferring additional protection. James A. explains, "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean to with a few campfire spots. Other campsites are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants)."
Privacy between sites: Catskill/Kenneth L Wilson Campground offers separated camping spots despite being a developed facility. Katherine P. notes, "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, but some of the other sites were literally next to the road."
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain regular bathroom cleaning schedules. At Phoenicia Black Bear Campground, Derek W. mentioned, "They offer creek front and wooded campsites. Each comes with a fire ring and picnic tables."
Campsite size variety: Campgrounds typically offer different site dimensions to accommodate various group sizes. Eliany L. found that North-South Lake "has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single. Great place to camp."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Wildlife encounters require appropriate precautions throughout the region. Kane B. from Kenneth L Wilson Campground offers this candid report: "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."
Limited cell service: Connectivity remains restricted in many camping locations. As Daniel L. reports from Kenneth L Wilson: "Although No cell service site was nice. Was our first shakedown camping trip. Very nice (clean) bathrooms and showers. Private level site surrounded by trees."
Booking windows: Reservations open 9 months in advance for most state-operated campgrounds. Chris D. advises regarding North-South Lake: "I've recently started going there again with my own family and it's great to see them take the same enjoyment I did. Camping, swimming, hiking, boating, biking, this place has it all."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds operate from mid-May through early October. Woodland Valley Campground maintains a May 19 to October 9 season, similar to other state facilities in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Dog friendly campgrounds near Woodstock: Several pet-friendly options exist with varying amenities. At Devil's Tombstone Campground, Becky G. mentions it's "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!"
Playground access: Family-oriented facilities often include play areas. At Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds, Richard V. describes "a few playgrounds a great pool and a lot of amenities."
Swimming areas for different ages: North-South Lake offers options for various swimming abilities. Tara L. indicates, "North South lake is one of the larger public camp grounds in New York. The sites are well spaced out. Great for families. The lake is huge."
Nature education opportunities: Many state campgrounds offer junior ranger programs during peak season. Becky G. describes Devil's Tombstone as offering "rustic tent-only spots, dog friendly, nice rangers and great trees for hammocks!"
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Kenneth L Wilson Campground provides dedicated RV spots. C R. reports, "This is a very nice wooded campground. We LOVED our site (site 9). It was absolutely massive! The photo doesn't do it justice. It was set back very far from the main road and was an extremely large site!"
Water access limitations: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups or dump stations. At Rip Van Winkle, Holly P. found "a fantastic little campground with lots of activities for kids."
Navigating narrow roads: Some campgrounds have restricted access for larger rigs. Regarding Echo Lake, James A. notes camping requires "navigating through small overgrown trails" to reach certain sites.
Seasonal reservation planning: Secure spots well in advance during peak seasons. As Tara L. advises about North-South Lake: "Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds."
