Whip-O-Will Campground

- 644 Co Rd 31, Purling, NY 12470

Introduction / Overview: Your Family-Focused Catskills Basecamp

For New York families seeking a reliable, amenity-rich getaway in the natural splendor of the Catskill Mountains, Whip-O-Will Campground offers a unique and established recreational experience. Located in Purling, NY, this expansive 100-acre property caters to a diverse range of camping styles, from those traveling with large RVs needing full hookups to those desiring a rustic tent-only experience by the lake. Unlike some of the state-run facilities that focus solely on rugged wilderness, Whip-O-Will presents itself as a community-oriented, family-friendly destination where organized activities and essential comforts are prioritized.

The campground operates seasonally, typically from mid-April through mid-October, positioning itself as the perfect seasonal or short-term retreat for those living in the tri-state area. It's important to understand the nature of this facility: it features a high percentage of seasonal sites, with many campers returning year after year, which fosters a distinct and often praised community atmosphere. While some visitors expecting a purely isolated, deep-woods experience may note the density of the sites and the presence of seasonal trailers, others celebrate the clean facilities, the wide range of on-site recreation, and the friendly, welcoming environment that makes it a home-away-from-home for many. Whether your ideal escape involves poolside lounging, a round of horseshoes, or easy access to a full-service camp store, Whip-O-Will aims to provide a memorable, convenient vacation in the Northern Catskills.

Location and Accessibility: Easily Reachable Northern Catskills Setting

Whip-O-Will Campground is strategically positioned in the Great Northern Catskills, making it an accessible driving destination for New York residents, particularly those in the Capital Region and downstate areas. It is located approximately 40 miles south of Albany and roughly two hours north of the New York City metro area, offering a quick transition from city life to mountain air.

The physical address is 644 Co Rd 31, Purling, NY 12470, USA. While the immediate roads leading into the campground are typical of a rural mountain setting—you may encounter narrow, unpaved sections—the location provides a central base for exploring Greene County's most popular attractions. You are only a short drive from renowned Catskills destinations such as Hunter Mountain and Windham Mountain, and historic sites like Kaaterskill Falls and the Catskill Mountain House area. This proximity allows visitors to seamlessly combine the recreational convenience of a private park with the breathtaking hiking and sightseeing opportunities of the surrounding state parklands.

Services Offered

Whip-O-Will Campground is designed to offer a comfortable and comprehensive stay, providing many amenities that enhance the experience for both short-term and seasonal campers.

• Diverse Site Options: The park offers approximately 280 sites in total, including Full Hookup (Water, Electric, and Sewer) sites, Water & Electric sites suitable for smaller RVs or pop-ups, and a dedicated Tent-Only (Water Only) section, with both daily and seasonal options available. Pull-thru sites are available for easier access.
• Essential Utility Services: All sites are equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit/ring. The campground also provides a Trailer Dump Station for RVs, a Propane Bottle Exchange service, and two EV Charging Stations for electric vehicle owners.
• Clean Restroom Facilities: Multiple, well-maintained Bath Houses with Hot Showers and flush toilets are available across the property, a feature frequently noted positively by guests.
• On-Site Retail and Convenience: A fully-stocked General Store is on-site for necessities, along with Firewood and Ice Sales. A Laundry Facility is also provided for extended stays.
• Recreation Hall and Food: The Rec Hall features a Snack Bar (known for its pizza), video games, and pool tables, serving as a hub for indoor fun.

Features / Highlights

The distinguishing features of Whip-O-Will center on its recreational offerings and the strong sense of community it cultivates.

• Poolside Relaxation: The campground boasts a Swimming Pool and a separate Kiddie Pool that are kept exceptionally clean, providing a fantastic way to cool off during the warmer summer months. Note that swimming facilities are typically unsupervised, with rules requiring adult accompaniment for minors.
• Lakeside Activities: A serene 7-Acre Lake is available for Catch and Release Fishing (no license required) and non-motorized boating. Rowboats, Kayaks, and Paddleboat Rentals are available on-site, perfect for a relaxing afternoon on the water.
• Robust Activity Schedule: A major draw is the calendar of organized weekly events, which often includes DJ Dance Parties, Bingo, Live Music, Corn Hole Tournaments, Golf Cart Parades, and themed weekends like Christmas in July and Halloween.
• Extensive Sports and Play Areas: The grounds offer a Playground for children, a Basketball Court, Horseshoes, and Bocce Ball areas, ensuring plenty of opportunity for active recreation and family challenges.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: The campground welcomes pets, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure, provided they are leashed and quiet.

Contact Information

For reservations, information on seasonal events, or specific site inquiries, please use the following contact details:

Address: 644 Co Rd 31, Purling, NY 12470, USA

Phone: (518) 622-3277

Mobile Phone: +1 518-622-3277

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

Whip-O-Will Campground is an excellent choice for New York locals, particularly families and RV owners, who seek a community-focused, feature-packed camping experience close to home. For urban and suburban residents of New York, this campground offers a valuable middle ground: it provides an escape to the scenic Catskills wilderness while retaining essential comforts and a high level of recreation that keeps all ages entertained.

Its suitability is rooted in convenience and variety. The mix of full-hookup sites for large RVs and secluded tent areas means it can accommodate different budgets and preferences. The extensive list of activities, from the pool and game room to scheduled events, ensures that families are never short on things to do, making it an ideal destination for holiday weekends or extended summer stays. While visitors should expect a community feel due to the high number of seasonal campers—a feature many locals enjoy for the friendly, neighborhood atmosphere—the access to clean bathrooms, on-site services, and proximity to major Catskills hiking trails (like those near Kaaterskill Falls and North/South Lake) makes it a practical and enjoyable base camp. Whip-O-Will offers an engaging, hassle-free, and memorable way to enjoy the great outdoors of Upstate New York.

Whip-O-Will Campground

644 Co Rd 31, Purling, NY 12470, USA