Bear Spring Mountain provides multiple camping experiences for equestrians and general visitors in the Catskill region. The woodland setting features streams with fresh drinking water piped directly to accessible points throughout the grounds. Hiking trails connect to broader trail networks, with both shorter loops around the pond and more extensive terrain options available for day excursions. Two separate camping areas offer different experiences, with the main area accommodating both tent and RV campers.
What to do
Kayak on Launt Pond: Visitors at Bear Spring Mountain can rent paddle boats and kayaks for water recreation. "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," notes J G.
Explore remote woodland settings: The Catskills region offers extensive forest landscapes. "Nothing but woods all around! Endless hiking and beautiful steams - you can drink straight from the pipes!" reports Kimberly S. about her Bear Spring Mountain experience.
Visit nearby Kaaterskill Falls: The North-South Lake Campground provides convenient access to one of the region's most notable natural features. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot. The restrooms were clean and had showers, which we did not expect," shares Brittany W.
Year-round camping options: Some areas permit camping throughout all seasons. "Love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now. Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream," explains Robert B. about his experiences at Betty Brook Camp.
What campers like
Private, quiet settings: The campgrounds near Andes often provide secluded camping experiences. "Clean, private, and quiet! We had a blast!!" explains Amanda P. about her stay at Bear Spring Mountain.
Accessible water features: Streams and ponds throughout the area enhance the camping experience. "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," shares Mayra D.
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting provides opportunities for animal observation. "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!" advises Amber A.
Swimming opportunities: The North-South Lake Campground offers popular swimming locations. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," says Lizz H.
What you should know
Seasonal timing affects crowds: Planning visits during non-peak periods improves the camping experience. "Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds," recommends Tara L. about North-South Lake, noting it's "one of the larger public camp grounds in New York."
Limited facilities at remote sites: Some horse campgrounds near Andes, New York have minimal amenities. "It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road. There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away. It's a small town, with just a gas station store," explains Peter about Betty Brook Camp.
Varied terrain for hiking: The trails range from beginner-friendly to more challenging. "I'm a native of the Catskills and spent many an afternoon with my family enjoying the facilities at North/South Lake. Camping, swimming, hiking, boating, biking, this place has it all," shares Chris D.
Horse-related scents: Equestrian facilities have distinctive aromas. "I drove to NYC for a business trip and ended up driving 1 and a half hour to reach this place. Thee is horses so you will smell them. There is a lake, grills restrooms and showers," notes Kevin T.
Tips for camping with families
Select family-oriented campgrounds: Some locations specifically cater to visitors with children. "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking," states Becky G. about her experience at North-South Lake.
Check for playground availability: Children-specific recreation areas provide additional activity options. "Small playground was nice for the kids," mentions Becky S., though she also notes Bear Spring Mountain is a "small place, not a whole lot to do."
Consider site accessibility: Elevation changes can impact family activities. "Brought bikes but the roads were way too steep," cautions Becky S. about the terrain at Bear Spring Mountain, something families with younger cyclists should note.
Look for multiple recreation options: Diverse activities keep family members of different ages engaged. "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!!!" shares Eliany L. about North-South Lake.
Tips from RVers
Check for suitable rig access: Some campgrounds have size limitations for larger vehicles. "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small, but it's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done," advises Peter regarding Betty Brook Camp.
Verify hookup availability: Campgrounds offer varying levels of RV services. Bear Spring Mountain provides electric, water, and sewer hookups with both 30 and 50 amp electrical options. The campground includes a sanitary dump station for convenience.
Reserve early for premium sites: Waterfront locations fill quickly during peak season. "Clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails. perfect Hudson getaway. Reserve very early for waterfront," recommends Rachel G. for visitors to North-South Lake.
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