North-South Lake Campground provides traditional developed campsites in the eastern Catskills region near Lanesborough, Massachusetts. Located at approximately 2,000 feet elevation, the campground experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with evening temperatures often dropping 10-15 degrees below daytime highs even in summer months. The campground sits within a northern hardwood forest dominated by maple, beech, and birch trees that create spectacular fall foliage displays from late September through mid-October.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Visitors can enjoy swimming at designated beach areas or rent kayaks and canoes for exploring both North and South Lakes. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," notes Lizz H. about North-South Lake Campground.
Hiking nearby waterfalls: Multiple trails connect to the campground, leading to regional attractions. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot. We had a wonderful weekend there," reports Brittany W. about North-South Lake.
Year-round recreation: The area offers seasonal activities beyond summer camping. Winter visitors seeking equestrian camping near Lanesborough, Massachusetts can find alternative accommodations at several regional farms that offer horse-friendly camping in colder months when the main campground is closed.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The maintained bathhouses and grounds receive consistent praise from visitors. "Clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails. perfect Hudson getaway. Reserve very early for waterfront," advises Rachel G. about North-South Lake.
Family atmosphere: The campground appeals to multi-generational groups with diverse activities. "I'm a native of the Catskills and spent many an afternoon with my family enjoying the facilities at North/South Lake. I've recently started going there again with my own family and it's great to see them take the same enjoyment I did. Camping, swimming, hiking, boating, biking, this place has it all," shares Chris D..
Site variety: Campers appreciate the range of site options available. "This campground has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single. Great place to camp. The view from the town to the campground was amazing," notes Eliany L..
What you should know
Reservation timing: The campground fills quickly during peak seasons, requiring advance planning. "North South lake is one of the larger public camp grounds in New York. The sites are well spaced out. Great for families. The lake is huge. Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds," recommends Tara L..
Trail connections: The campground serves as a hub for accessing regional hiking systems. "Always packed, but always beautiful. Awesome access to the Catskill Escaprment trail from here," notes Maribeth W. about North-South Lake.
Horse camping options: While North-South Lake doesn't offer dedicated equestrian facilities, horse owners seeking equestrian camping options near Lanesborough can find private farms within a 30-mile radius that provide corrals and trail access for horses.
Tips for camping with families
Easy hiking access: Several trails near the campground offer family-friendly distances and terrain. "This campsite is by far my favorite in the Catskills! Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable, bathrooms & beach areas are always clean, & the hiking nearby is fantastic. 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," shares Jessica W..
Multiple recreation options: The dual lakes and surrounding area provide diverse activities for different ages. "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking," notes Becky G. about North-South Lake.
Shower facilities: Unlike more primitive campgrounds, North-South Lake offers shower facilities appreciated by families. "The restrooms were clean and had showers, which we did not expect," mentions Brittany W. about North-South Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should research specific loops for larger vehicles as not all areas accommodate bigger rigs equally well.
Water and electric connections: Several campsites offer hookups, though availability varies by loop and reservation timing.
Off-season visits: RV campers report less crowding and easier site availability during weekdays in May, early June, and late September, though water systems may be winterized during shoulder seasons.
Scout
