The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App
Map showing campground location near Downsville, New York
Camper submitted image from Bear Spring Mountain — DECView 22 Photos
RoadsMap showing campground location near Downsville, New York

Bear Spring Mountain — DEC

7 ReviewsAdd Review

Hikers and paddlers will find plenty to explore at Bear Spring Mountain, a New York State campground operating from mid-May through late August in the forested hills near Downsville. The 40-site facility sits adjacent to Launt Pond, where campers can rent kayaks and paddle boats from the day-use area. Electric, water, and sewer hookups accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, with nightly rates ranging from $18 to $40.

A hiking loop circles the pond, while additional trails extend into the surrounding woods where campers report spotting various wildlife. "Highly recommended if you like hiking," notes J G., who also mentions the area's wildflowers and nature viewing opportunities. The pond provides fishing access, though one reviewer described it as "very small" for a lake. Horse activity occurs on-site, which some campers notice as barn-like odors in certain camping areas.

Standard amenities include bathhouses with showers, picnic tables, and fire grills at each site. A small playground serves families with children. The campground's two distinct camping areas offer different experiences, so visitors can explore both before settling in. Staff maintain bear safety protocols that all campers must follow.

This campground works well for families seeking water activities and day hiking within a manageable facility size. Those wanting more extensive trail systems or mountain vistas might consider exploring other camping near Downsville for additional options.

Fee Info

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

Check AvailabilitySuggest an Edit

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.

RV Road Trip Guides

Atlantic Coast Road Trip

Atlantic Coast Highway Road Trip

Atlantic Coast Road Trip Segment: Cape May to Virginia Beach

Cape May to Virginia Beach: 4 Day Road Trip

Build Your Trip

Plan a TripAdd

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

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

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

Is Bear Spring Mountain — DEC sold out?

Quickly grab cancellations!

Learn More

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

Drive Time

Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

58%
29%
15%
0%
0%

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
  • Play button icon
  • Play button icon
  • Play button icon
  • (24) View All
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.

Keep Exploring