North-South Lake Campground serves as a seasonal equestrian camping option near Ashley Falls, Massachusetts. Located within the 700,000-acre Catskill Forest Preserve, this campground operates from May 19 to October 22 annually. The facility accommodates horse owners with designated trailer parking areas, though visitors must bring their own portable containment systems as no permanent horse corrals exist on site.
What to do
Swimming access: North-South Lake Campground provides two lakes for swimming during warm months. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," notes Lizz H., a regular visitor.
Waterfront camping: Sites near the lake offer direct water access but require advance planning. "Reserve very early for waterfront," advises Rachel G., who describes the campground as "clean and well run with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails."
Hiking opportunities: North-South Lake Campground connects to numerous trail systems including the Catskill Escarpment trail. The campground's location provides convenient access to notable landmarks. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot," reports Brittany W.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The campground maintains regular cleaning schedules for comfort stations. "The restrooms were clean and had showers, which we did not expect," mentions Brittany W. after her weekend stay.
Variety of recreation: North-South Lake Campground offers multiple outdoor activities beyond equestrian options. Chris D., who revisited the campground with his family, shares: "Camping, swimming, hiking, boating, biking, this place has it all."
Professional management: Staff responsiveness contributes to positive experiences. Eliany L. notes, "Great restrooms cleaned every morning staff was very friendly, awesome!!"
What you should know
Peak season crowds: The campground experiences high visitation during certain periods. Maribeth W. observes it's "Always packed, but always beautiful." For equestrian camping near Ashley Falls, Massachusetts, timing matters.
Campsite selection: The 219 sites vary in size and layout. "This campground has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single," explains Eliany L., who also mentions the "amazing" view approaching the campground.
Reservation requirements: Country Campsites provides an alternative equestrian camping option in the region with different reservation policies. Advance booking is strongly recommended for North-South Lake during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly atmosphere: Multiple reviewers note the family-appropriate environment. "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking," confirms Becky G.
Avoid holiday periods: For families seeking quieter equestrian camping experiences near Ashley Falls, plan around major holidays. Tara L. advises: "Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds."
Nearby attractions: North-South Lake Campground offers convenient access to regional points of interest. "A lot of the hiking nearby is also relatively easy and includes the newly opened (as of 2016) viewing platform for Kaasterskill falls, which is minutes down the road from the campground," explains Jessica W.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV campers appreciate the campground layout. Tara L. notes that "the sites are well spaced out" at North-South Lake, which enhances privacy between camping units.