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Bear Spring Mountain — DEC

7 ReviewsAdd Review

Hiking enthusiasts will find extensive trail networks at Bear Spring Mountain — DEC, a state-managed campground in the Catskill region. The facility centers around Launt Pond, where campers can fish from shore or rent kayaks and paddle boats from the day-use area. A hiking loop circles the pond, while more challenging trails extend into the surrounding forest.

The campground divides into two camping areas, though one carries a noticeable barn-like odor from nearby horse activity. Sites include standard state park amenities with picnic tables, grills, and access to bathhouses with showers. Electric hookups are available for RVs. Becky S. notes the "pond/very small lake was nice for fishing," though she found the steep terrain challenging for biking.

Wildlife sightings are common, and bear safety protocols apply. A small playground serves families with children. The roads leading to some sites can be quite steep. Spring and summer visits offer the fullest range of activities, with May providing quieter conditions when many sites remain unoccupied. Campers exploring the region can find places to camp around Downsville for additional options.

Reservations are recommended during peak season, and the $18 nightly rate makes this an affordable base for Catskill exploration.

Fee Info

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

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Warning 1 Alert is In Effect

There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

DEC Campgrounds: Same-day reservations will be allowed until 5pm on day of arrival at all DEC campgrounds. Reservations can be made online or through the Reserve America Call Center: 1-800-456-2267. Walk-ins will not be permitted.

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Location

Public Campground

Bear Spring Mountain — DEC is located in New York

Detail location of campground

Directions

Bear Spring Mountain is located in the western Catskills, 5 miles south of Walton, New York From the south take Route 17 west to exit 90 (East Branch), take Route 30 north to Shinhopple, turn left on East Trout Brook road, 4-5 miles, campground on the right. (Launt Pond loop is 7 miles from Route 30).

Address

512 East Trout Brook Rd
Downsvile, NY 13755

Coordinates

42.119952206215345 N
75.0695149169972 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Group
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • Pull-Through Sites
  • 30 Amp Hookups
  • 50 Amp Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

7 Reviews

Many mentioned clean sites, good facilities, and friendly staff in a quiet wooded setting. Guests commonly noted excellent hiking opportunities and water activities on the pond. The majority of campers found it offers solid value at $18 with standard state park amenities.

J G.
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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Mayra D.
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.

Becky S.
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
Amber A.
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!

k
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

Showing results 1-7 of 7 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What do the reviews say about Bear Spring Mountain Campground?

Bear Spring Mountain Campground offers a peaceful wilderness experience surrounded by woods and natural beauty. It's located about 1.5 hours from NYC, making it a great escape for city dwellers. The campground is generally clean, private, and quiet, with spacious sites. While some visitors find it exceptional, others note it's nice but not extraordinary. The campground features Launt Pond, which offers fishing and boating opportunities. There are hiking trails throughout the property, though some hikers mention the views aren't as spectacular as they hoped. Horse activities are available in the area, adding a unique element to this woodland retreat.

What amenities and facilities are available at Bear Spring Mountain Campground?

Bear Spring Mountain Campground offers several amenities to enhance your camping experience. The facilities include restrooms, showers, grills, and picnic tables at each campsite. For recreation, there's Launt Pond where you can rent paddle boats and kayaks during the day use hours. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails, including a loop around the pond. A small playground is available for children. The campground also features horse-related activities nearby. Fresh water is accessible from pipes throughout the property. The overall infrastructure is basic but functional, providing the essentials for a comfortable outdoor stay.

How do I contact Bear Spring Mountain Campground for reservations?

To make reservations at Bear Spring Mountain Campground, contact the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), which manages this facility. Reservations can typically be made through the NY State Parks reservation system online or by phone. For the most current contact information and reservation procedures, visit the official NY DEC website or call their regional office. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak summer months, though the campground often has availability in spring months like May when it tends to be quieter.

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