Kenneth L. Wilson Campground

For residents of New York looking to trade the city skyline for mountain vistas, Kenneth L. Wilson Campground offers one of the most serene retreats in the Ulster County region. Tucked away in the hamlet of Mt Tremper, this New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) facility serves as a gateway to the legendary Catskill Forest Preserve. Surrounded by high peaks and dense hardwood forests, the campground is a favorite for local outdoors enthusiasts who value a quiet, clean, and well-managed environment. Whether you are a solo traveler seeking the peace of the woods or a family planning a summer tradition, this destination provides a classic camping experience with the added benefit of proximity to the artistic charm of nearby Woodstock.

The atmosphere at Kenneth L. Wilson is defined by its commitment to the "quiet hours" and a high standard of maintenance that keeps the facilities spotless. With 76 individual campsites, the park manages to feel expansive yet intimate. Most sites are deeply wooded, offering a level of privacy that can be hard to find at more crowded state parks. This sense of seclusion, combined with the sounds of local wildlife and the rustle of hemlocks, makes it a premier choice for those who want to disconnect from the digital world—especially since cell service is notoriously limited in the park, providing a rare opportunity for true mental rejuvenation under the stars.

Located at 859 Wittenberg Road in Mt Tremper, NY 12457, the campground is remarkably accessible for those traveling from the Hudson Valley or New York City. From the New York State Thruway (I-87) at Exit 19, the drive takes you west on Route 28, a scenic bypass that offers beautiful views of the Ashokan Reservoir. The final leg of the journey through Wittenberg Road winds through typical Catskill terrain, characterized by stone walls and rolling hills. Its location is approximately 5 miles southwest of Woodstock and midway to Phoenicia, making it a perfect hub for exploring the wider Ulster County area.

Accessibility is a point of pride for the facility. The park features wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, and restrooms, ensuring that the beauty of the Catskills is inclusive for all visitors. Within the day-use area, there is an accessible fishing pier and a floating dock with a canoe/kayak launch, allowing everyone to enjoy the tranquility of the pond. While the terrain is mountainous, the main roads within the park are blacktopped and well-maintained, providing smooth transit for vehicles and bicycles alike.

• Overnight accommodations including 76 spacious tent and trailer sites, many of which can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet.
• Clean bathroom facilities featuring flush toilets and temperature-controlled hot showers for a comfortable stay.
• Boat rentals, including kayaks, canoes, and rowboats, for exploring the calm waters of the on-site pond.
• A trailer dump station and a recycling center for the convenience of RV travelers and long-term guests.
• Picnic pavilion rentals equipped with grills, ideal for hosting large group gatherings or family reunions.
• Seasonal firewood sales to ensure campers have access to heat and cooking fuel without transporting invasive species.
• A dedicated dog park with two separate fields, allowing pets to run off-leash in a safe environment.
• Professional on-site staff and forest rangers available to assist with registration and ensure park regulations are followed.

• The Pond Trail: A beautiful, kid-friendly hike that winds along the shoreline, offering exceptional views of the water and local birdlife.
• Advanced Mountain Biking: A challenging mountain bike trail designed for experienced riders who enjoy navigating through the forest's natural obstacles.
• Fishing Opportunities: A shallow, 14-acre lake stocked with largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and bluegills, complete with accessible fishing piers.
• Playground and Recreation: Family-friendly amenities including a playground with slides and swings, as well as horseshoe pits for classic campground fun.
• Wildlife Viewing: An 80-foot wildlife viewing platform overlooking the Little Beaverkill, perfect for spotting ospreys or deer in their natural habitat.
• Secluded Camping: Heavily wooded campsites that provide a "wild" feel while still being close to modern restroom facilities.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are welcome throughout the campground, provided they are leashed and have proof of vaccination.

To plan your visit or make a reservation, you can contact the campground office during the operating season, which typically runs from mid-May through Labor Day weekend. Reservations are highly recommended for weekends and holidays.

Address: 859 Wittenberg Rd, Mt Tremper, NY 12457, USA

Phone: (845) 679-7020

Reservation Website: New York State Parks (ReserveAmerica)

What truly makes Kenneth L. Wilson Campground worth choosing is the balance it strikes between rustic adventure and essential comfort. In a region where many campgrounds can feel either too commercial or too primitive, this park finds the "Goldilocks" zone. You get the benefit of hot showers and flush toilets, yet you can still feel the profound silence of the Catskill wilderness. It is an excellent choice for solo campers who want a safe and quiet environment, as well as for families who want to introduce their children to hiking and fishing on a manageable, "kid-friendly" scale.

Furthermore, its location provides a best-of-both-worlds scenario. You can spend your morning kayaking on the peaceful pond and your afternoon browsing the eclectic boutiques or art galleries in Woodstock. For the local New Yorker, it offers an escape that feels thousands of miles away from the city's frantic energy, yet it is close enough for a spontaneous weekend trip. The cleanliness of the facility, the friendliness of the staff, and the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains ensure that once you visit, you will likely join the many regulars who return year after year to this Ulster County treasure.