A Fly Fisher’s Guide to RV Camping in the Catskills

So, you have a fly rod in one hand, a folding chair in the other, and your camper packed up like a tackle box. You are ready for the Catskills. But before you head out, let us walk through everything you need to know in this guide to RV camping in the Catskills, especially if you are itching to cast your line in a peaceful creek.

Why the Catskills Are a Dream for Fly Fishers and Campers

The Catskill Mountains are not just hills with trees. They are full of rivers, wildlife, winding roads, and quiet mornings. For many fly fishers, the Catskills are where it all began. The Willowemoc Creek, right here in Livingston Manor, is one of the most famous fly fishing spots in the country. It is clear, cold, and packed with trout.

Now add an RV campsite to that picture—one with hookups, a cozy fire pit, and a short walk to the water. Sounds like your kind of trip, right?

What to Expect When RV Camping in the Catskills

First things first—RV camping in the Catskills is not like staying in a parking lot. It is waking up to birds, sipping coffee with mountain views, and tying flies while sitting outside your rig.

At Willowemoc Campgrounds, you get full-hookup RV sites tucked right next to Willowemoc Creek. You are close enough to the water that you can hear the current from your camper door.

Want to stay a little longer? No problem. Our seasonal RV sites are perfect for those who want the same site all season long.

The Best Time to Fish in the Catskills

Here is a little local wisdom—spring and fall are your best bets. Spring brings hungry trout out after a long winter nap. May and June are golden. Fall is quieter, the colors are wild, and the water is cool.

Summer? Still fishable, but mornings and evenings are best. The fish like it cool, and so do you after a hot day by the fire.

What to Pack for Your Trip

Packing for a fly fishing and RV trip in the Catskills is a little like packing for a camping trip mixed with a fishing tournament and a lazy weekend.

Here is a quick list:

• Fly rod and reel
  
  
• Waders and boots (you will thank yourself later)
  
  
• Extra flies (the fish here are picky eaters)
  
  
• Sunscreen and bug spray
  
  
• Rain gear (because Catskill weather likes surprises)
  
  
• A comfy chair for fireside chats
  
  
• Marshmallows (for obvious reasons)
  
  
• A cooler for your snacks
  
  
• Maps or a GPS, unless you like getting lost on purpose
  
  

Where to Cast Your Line Near Willowemoc Campgrounds

You do not need to go far. Willowemoc Creek is just steps away from our campsites. This creek is filled with brown and rainbow trout. The water runs smooth in some spots and fast in others, so pick your place and take your time.

Little tip: early morning is magic. The fog sits low, and the fish are up for a snack. Late evenings are just as sweet.

Tips for First-Time Fly Fishers in the Catskills

1. Do not rush. Trout can see you, even when you cannot see them.
   
   
2. Match the hatch. Ask around or check the creekside rocks for what bugs are out.
   
   
3. Practice your cast. Trees love flies. So do bushes.
   
   
4. Keep it quiet. Splashy boots and loud talk can send fish running.
   
   
5. Pack your patience. Some days are fish-heavy. Some are just quiet. Both are good.
   
   

Staying Longer? Make It Your Summer Spot

Many campers come for a weekend and end up booking for the whole season. It is easy to see why. The air smells better here. The nights are full of stars. The creek hums you to sleep. If that sounds like your kind of life, check out our seasonal RV sites.

Other Things to Do When You Are Not Fishing

Not every moment has to be spent waist-deep in water. Here are a few things folks enjoy around here:

• Hiking nearby trails
  
  
• Visiting local farmers markets
  
  
• Roasting hotdogs over the fire
  
  
• Skipping rocks with the kids
  
  
• Taking a nap in a hammock (underrated)
  
  

Ready to Go? Let Us Save You a Spot

So now you know the scoop. Fly fishing and RV camping go together like peanut butter and jelly—especially here in the Catskills. If you are ready to park your camper next to a world-famous creek and swap fish stories under the stars, then Willowemoc Campgrounds is the place for you.

Check out our RV site rentals and grab your favorite weekend before someone else does. Or go all in and make this your seasonal home away from home.

We will see you by the fire—with a fishing rod in hand and a marshmallow on a stick.

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