North-South Lake Campground provides extensive camping options near Coeymans, New York, approximately 30 miles southwest. This Catskills destination features two interconnected lakes at 2,200 feet elevation with swimming areas and boat rentals available during peak summer months. Water levels remain consistent through September, though facilities begin closing after Labor Day.
What to do
Hiking trails: North-South Lake Campground connects to numerous hiking paths including the Escarpment Trail with access to Kaaterskill Falls. "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," notes Jessica W.
Swimming opportunities: The twin lakes offer designated swimming areas with gradual entry points suitable for various skill levels. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," shares Lizz H.
Fishing spots: Betty Brook Camp provides stream access for seasonal fishing. "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," reports Robert B.
What campers like
Clean facilities: North-South Lake maintains well-kept restrooms and common areas. "Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable, bathrooms & beach areas are always clean, & the hiking nearby is fantastic," writes Jessica W.
Multiple recreation options: The dual-lake system provides diverse activities. "Been there couple of times. Love it. Two lakes. Highly recommended," states Luka M.
Remote experiences: Betty Brook Camp offers quieter alternatives to larger campgrounds. "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," explains Peter.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: North-South Lake Campground operates from May 19 to October 22 and requires advance booking, especially for premium locations. "Reserve very early for waterfront," advises Rachel G.
Seasonal crowds: Visitor numbers fluctuate significantly throughout the operating season. "Always packed, but always beautiful. Awesome access to the Catskill Escaprment trail from here," mentions Maribeth W.
Campsite variations: Sites differ in size, privacy, and amenities. "This campsite is by far my favorite in the Catskills! Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable, bathrooms & beach areas are always clean," reports Jessica W.
Tips for camping with families
Choose spacious sites: North-South Lake offers various campsite sizes accommodating different group configurations. "This campground has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single. Great place to camp," shares Eliany L.
Pack for weather changes: Catskill mountain elevations experience significant temperature variations between day and night, even in summer months. "The view from the town to the campground was amazing!!! Will be back!!" notes Eliany L.
Consider off-peak visits: School vacation periods bring increased family traffic. "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.
Tips for RVers
Check site dimensions: Most area campgrounds have limited space for large rigs. "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 about Betty Brook Camp.
Plan for limited hookups: While North-South Lake offers some electric connections, many equestrian campgrounds near Coeymans, New York provide minimal RV services. Arcadian Pastures Equine allows RV camping but lacks hookups, requiring self-contained operation.
Prepare for narrow roads: Access routes to horse camping areas around Coeymans involve winding mountain roads with limited turning radius. Country Campsites provides standard RV sites with water and sewer connections, though not designated as big-rig friendly.
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