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Established Camping

Bear Spring Mountain - DEC

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Bear Spring Mountain - DEC, near Downsville, New York, is a charming campground that offers a slice of nature perfect for those looking to unwind. With its tent sites surrounded by lush woods and a serene pond, it’s an ideal spot for camping enthusiasts who appreciate a peaceful atmosphere.

The campground features clean facilities, including standard bathhouses and picnic tables with grills, making it easy to enjoy meals outdoors. Visitors have highlighted the area for day use, where you can rent paddle boats or kayaks to explore the water, and there are hiking loops that showcase the beautiful local flora. One camper noted, “There is a hiking loop that goes around the pond,” which is a great way to soak in the scenery.

For those who enjoy wildlife, Bear Spring Mountain is a treat, with plenty of opportunities for spotting local critters. Some campers have mentioned the fun of fishing in the small lake and the thrill of hiking nearby trails. While the campground is small, it offers a cozy, friendly vibe that many find appealing. As one reviewer put it, “Clean, private, and quiet! We had a blast!!”

If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle, Bear Spring Mountain is a solid choice. With its natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great spot to pitch your tent and enjoy the great outdoors.

Description

New York Department of Environmental Conservation

Bear Spring Mountain is located in the western end of the Catskill Forest Preserve. The campgrounds beach, boat rental, and multi-use trail system offers fun for all ages. For the horse riding enthusiast, Spruce Grove camping and trail system is one of a kind facility in the Catskill region. This region is also known for its excellent hunting and fishing.

The facility is broken into two distinct areas, the Launt Pond Area (the main campground) and the Spruce Grove Area which is 3.5 miles from the campground office. The Spruce Grove Area is equipped with pit toilets. The hot showers, rest rooms and garbage disposal area are all located in the Launt Pond Area. Spruce Grove campers have access to all amenities, however they will be a drive from their camping area. Amenities

41 tent and trailer sites; picnic area with tables, grills, playground, horseshoe pits, volleyball and pavilion rental; rowboat, canoe, kayak and paddle boat rentals; firewood sales; trailer dump station; recycling center; flush toilets and hot showers at Launt Pond Area; boat launch; sand beach; 24 horse tie stalls and horse accessible ramp; 24 miles of multi-use trails. Please note: There are no horse rentals available at this campground. Proof of current negative Coggins Certificate is required for all horses entering the campground. Out-of state horse owners will be required to produce a 30-day health certificate Patrons must carry each horse's health papers with them at all times.

Fee Info

(out of state residents surcharge additional $5 per night)

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Location

Bear Spring Mountain - DEC is located in New York

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

42.119952206215345 N
75.0695149169972 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Good
  • Verizon
    Available
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Firewood Available
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

7 Reviews

Reviewed Apr. 28, 2021

Bear Spring Mountain, Add to your list!

There is an area for day use where you can rent a paddle boat or kayak to go out on the water. Highly recommended if you like hiking. Great flowers and nature. There is a hiking loop that goes around the pond. Standard bath houses and camp site picnic tables and grills.

Month of VisitSeptember
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Reviewed Apr. 7, 2021

Great stay

Cute and friendly campground by Launt pond :) We were there in May and there were plenty of empty sites so it was nice and quiet.

Reviewed Sep. 4, 2017

OK campground...

Small place, not a whole lot to do. I was hoping for a great view of the Catskills, but the hikes didn't deliver. Friendly staff, decent amenities. Pond/very small lake was nice for fishing. Brought bikes but the roads were way too steep. Small playground was nice for the kids.

Site15
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Bear Spring Mountain - DEC by Becky S., September 4, 2017
  • Review photo of Bear Spring Mountain - DEC by Becky S., September 4, 2017
Reviewed Jul. 31, 2016

Classic catskills

Went here with some friends who had never been outside NYC before. They were absolutely blown away. For me, it was a nice site but not exceptional. Bring or rent a kayak! There is some pretty serious hiking on site and nearby. There was a lot of horse activity but I don’t know if you can hire them here. Lots of wildlife! There are two areas for camping, check out both though one smells kind of like a barn. Site was typical of state park campgrounds, all up to expectations. Obey bear rules!

Reviewed Jul. 9, 2016

Middle of Nowhere!

Nothing but woods all around! Endless hiking and beautiful steams - you can drink straight from the pipes!

Reviewed Jun. 17, 2016

Bear spring

I drove to NYC for a business trip and ended up driving 1 and a half hour to reach this place. I always carry a tent in the back of my trunk and decided to go camping. This campsite isn't the best but is still good. Thee is horses so you will smell them. There is a lake, grills restrooms and showers. This is one of the more fancy campsites and is definitely worth it for only 18 dollars. You can also do short day hikes

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to camp at Bear Spring Mountain - DEC?

    Camping at Bear Spring Mountain - DEC can starts at $18.00.

  • What is the max vehicle length at Bear Spring Mountain - DEC?

    Bear Spring Mountain - DEC allows vehicles up to 40 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Bear Spring Mountain - DEC?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Bear Spring Mountain - DEC, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Bear Spring Mountain - DEC have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Bear Spring Mountain - DEC does not have wifi.