Woodland Valley Campground

For outdoor enthusiasts in the New York region, few places capture the raw, rugged beauty of the Catskill Mountains quite like Woodland Valley Campground. Situated at the base of Slide Mountain—the highest peak in the Catskills—this state-run facility is a cornerstone of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) camping system. It offers a authentic back-to-basics experience that resonates with those looking to escape the digital noise of the city. While many modern campgrounds lean toward luxury, Woodland Valley remains a sanctuary for traditionalists, where the sound of the babbling Woodland Creek and the scent of hemlock needles define the stay.

The campground is primarily known as a premier "hikers' park." Because it serves as the trailhead for some of the most challenging and rewarding peaks in the state, the atmosphere here is one of quiet preparation and weary but satisfied returns. It is a place where you will find serious backpackers checking their gear alongside families teaching their children how to build a proper campfire. Despite its popularity among high-peak aspirants, the park maintains a peaceful and professional environment, characterized by strictly enforced quiet hours and a commitment to preserving the natural integrity of the valley.

Location is perhaps the most distinctive feature of Woodland Valley Campground. It is located at 1319 Woodland Valley Road, Phoenicia, NY 12464. To reach it, travelers typically take Route 28 to the charming village of Phoenicia—renowned for its tubing and vibrant local dining—and then navigate roughly eight miles south into the heart of the valley. The drive itself is a transition into the wild, as the road narrows and the mountains begin to tower on either side. The campground sits at a dead end, ensuring that the only traffic you encounter is from fellow nature lovers.

Accessibility at the park has been a focus of recent improvements. The facility offers wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, and restrooms, allowing visitors of all mobility levels to enjoy the day-use areas and specific accessible campsites. For those bringing vehicles, on-site parking is available for both campers and day-hikers, though a small daily fee is required for those not staying overnight. It is important for local New Yorkers to note that cell service is virtually non-existent in this deep valley, making it essential to download maps and check weather reports before arriving at the Phoenicia turn-off.

• Rustic overnight camping with 72 tent and trailer sites, including several located directly along the scenic Woodland Creek.
• Access to potable running water via multiple spigots conveniently located throughout the camping loops.
• On-site sanitation services featuring flush toilets and hot showers, providing essential comfort after a long day on the trails.
• A trailer dump station and a recycling center to support responsible RV and trailer use (maximum equipment length is 30 feet).
• Firewood sales available on-site to prevent the transport of invasive species and ensure safe, local fuel for campfires.
• Day-use picnic areas equipped with tables and grills, perfect for a post-hike meal or a family afternoon by the stream.
• Professional park ranger presence to assist with registration, safety information, and trail guidance.
• Educational Junior Naturalist programs during the summer months to engage younger campers with the local environment.

• The Burroughs Range Trailhead: Direct access to the legendary 14-mile loop over Wittenberg, Cornell, and Slide Mountains.
• Kid-Friendly Hikes: Shorter, manageable paths and stream-side walks that are "good for kids" and less strenuous than the high peaks.
• Stream Fishing: Woodland Creek offers excellent opportunities for trout fishing for those with a valid New York State fishing license.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are welcome to join the adventure, provided they are leashed and owners can provide proof of rabies vaccination.
• Historic Surroundings: The park is located near the Empire State Railway Museum and the historic village of Phoenicia.
• Picnic Facilities: Each campsite includes a dedicated fire pit, grate, and picnic table for a classic outdoor living setup.
• Strict Quiet Hours: Enforcement from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM ensures a restful night’s sleep for all guests.

To secure a spot at this popular destination, reservations should be made through the ReserveAmerica system, which handles all NYS DEC campground bookings. While some walk-in sites may be available, they are rare during the peak summer and autumn foliage seasons.

Address: 1319 Woodland Valley Rd, Phoenicia, NY 12464, USA

Phone: (845) 688-7647

Woodland Valley Campground is worth choosing because it provides an unmediated connection to the Catskill High Peaks. For a resident of New York, there is something deeply satisfying about starting a hike from your tent flap and ascending thousands of feet to witness the sunrise over the Ashokan Reservoir. It is an "honest" campground—it doesn't promise Wi-Fi or electricity, but it does promise a star-filled sky and the purest mountain air you can find in Ulster County. The reasonable $20 per night fee (for NYS residents) makes it one of the most affordable ways to experience a world-class mountain range.

Furthermore, the park’s proximity to Phoenicia means you aren't completely isolated. You can spend your morning conquering "The Cornell Crack" and your afternoon enjoying a world-famous breakfast at the Phoenicia Diner or tubing down the Esopus Creek. This combination of rugged wilderness access and local village charm makes Woodland Valley a quintessential New York experience. Whether you are coming for the 99.99% "bugs and rocks" challenge of the high peaks or simply to sit by a fire and listen to the creek, this campground offers a level of authenticity that keeps local adventurers coming back generation after generation.