North-South Lake Campground sits at an elevation of approximately 2,000 feet in the eastern Catskill Mountains. The campground spans two connected lakes and provides access to the Catskill escarpment, a prominent cliff face with significant elevation changes. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing with summer daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F.
What to do
Hiking to viewpoints: Access the Catskill escarpment trail system directly from North-South Lake Campground. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot. We had a wonderful weekend there," notes Brittany W. The newly opened viewing platform at Kaaterskill Falls provides safer viewing access.
Swimming in dual lakes: The campground offers swimming areas at both North and South Lake with designated beaches. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," shares Lizz H. Swimming is permitted only in designated areas with no lifeguards present, so appropriate supervision is required.
Boating opportunities: Both lakes permit non-motorized boats including canoes, kayaks, and rowboats. Rentals are available on-site during peak season. "Two lakes. Highly recommended," states Luka M. in their review of the water recreation options available.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: The campground receives regular maintenance throughout the camping season. "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. Bathroom facilities include hot showers which are cleaned daily.
Family-friendly environment: The campground layout accommodates various group sizes with organized loops. "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," explains Tara L. Multiple playgrounds are distributed throughout the camping areas.
Off-season tranquility: Visit during shoulder seasons for reduced crowds. "Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds," advises Tara L. The campground operates from mid-May through late October with significantly lower usage rates during weekdays and in September-October.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Sites fill quickly, particularly waterfront locations and holiday weekends. "Clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails. perfect Hudson getaway. Reserve very early for waterfront," recommends Rachel G. Reservations open 9 months in advance through the New York State reservation system.
Equestrian accommodations: Horse campgrounds near Craryville, New York are limited, with North-South Lake not offering dedicated horse facilities or corrals. Equestrians must seek alternative arrangements at private facilities in the region. The nearest equestrian camping opportunities require traveling approximately 30 miles north to state forests with horse-friendly trails.
Seasonal crowding patterns: The campground experiences heavy usage during summer weekends. "Always packed, but always beautiful. Awesome access to the Catskill Escaprment trail from here," mentions Maribeth W. Weekday camping provides a significantly different experience with fewer occupied sites.
Tips for camping with families
Multi-generational appeal: The area offers activities suitable for various age groups. "I'm a native of the Catskills and spent many an afternoon with my family enjoying the facilities at North/South Lake. I've recently started going there again with my own family and it's great to see them take the same enjoyment I did. Camping, swimming, hiking, boating, biking, this place has it all," shares Chris D.
Varied site selection: Choose sites based on proximity to amenities versus privacy. "This campground has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single. Great place to camp," notes Eliany L. Sites in loops closest to the lake offer easier water access but less privacy.
Accessible trails: Numerous trails accommodate different hiking abilities. "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," explains Jessica W. The escarpment trail system includes both challenging sections and more moderate routes.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many sites require significant leveling for larger RVs. "The view from the town to the campground was amazing!!! Will be back!!" mentions Eliany L., though RVers should note the mountainous terrain creates uneven sites. Loop A provides the most level options for larger rigs.
Limited hookup availability: Reserve early for electric sites, which represent approximately 30% of all campsites. "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking," Becky G. notes, though full hookups are not available. A sanitary dump station is provided near the campground entrance.
Legend
