North-South Lake Campground sits within the Catskill Forest Preserve at an elevation of 2,200 feet, offering visitors proximity to the storied Catskill Mountain House site, once a premier 19th-century resort destination. Camping options near Glasco, New York range from established campgrounds with full amenities to more primitive sites. While equestrian camping facilities are limited in the immediate area, several campgrounds accommodate visitors with various recreational needs.
What to do
Swimming in mountain lakes: North-South Lake Campground provides two connected lakes ideal for cooling off during summer months. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," notes Lizz H. about the swimming areas at North-South Lake Campground.
Stream-side camping: At Betty Brook Camp, visitors can set up directly alongside flowing water. "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots," explains Robert B. who has been visiting the area for decades. Betty Brook Camp offers a more rustic experience with fire rings and water access.
Hiking nearby trails: The area provides access to multiple trail networks including the historic Catskill Escarpment trail system. "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," shares Jessica W. about the accessible hiking options.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent positive feedback from visitors. "Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable, bathrooms & beach areas are always clean, & the hiking nearby is fantastic," reports Jessica W. about the upkeep at North-South Lake Campground.
Privacy between sites: The natural layout provides good separation between camping spots. "The sites are well spaced out. Great for families. The lake is huge," explains Tara L., highlighting the spacious arrangement that allows campers to enjoy their own area without feeling crowded.
Year-round accessibility: Some dispersed camping areas remain open 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," notes Robert B. about the solitude available at Betty Brook Camp even during off-peak months.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Securing spots at popular campgrounds requires planning well ahead. "Reserve very early for waterfront," advises Rachel G. about getting the prime locations at Country Campsites, particularly during peak summer season.
Crowd management: Holiday weekends bring significantly more visitors to established campgrounds. "Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds," recommends Tara L., suggesting that midweek or non-holiday weekends provide a more peaceful camping experience.
Site suitability for equipment: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger camping setups. "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," cautions Peter about Betty Brook Camp, noting its limitations for oversized vehicles.
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," shares Chris D. about the Artisan Hill Farm & Studio area's enduring appeal across generations.
Amenity access: Facilities with shower access provide comfort for longer family stays. "The restrooms were clean and had showers, which we did not expect," mentions Brittany W., highlighting the convenient amenities that make extended camping trips more comfortable for families with children.
Water recreation options: Multiple water features keep children entertained throughout the day. "Two lakes. Highly recommended," notes Luka M. succinctly about the swimming and boating options that provide family-friendly activities during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for size: RV campers should research site dimensions before booking. "This campground has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single," explains Eliany L. about the varied accommodation options at Betty Brook Camp.
Road access considerations: Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges for larger rigs. "It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road," notes Peter about the access to Betty Brook Camp, indicating that while reachable, the location requires careful navigation for larger vehicles.
Utility hookups: Availability varies significantly between established campgrounds and dispersed sites. Established campgrounds typically offer more amenities, while dispersed camping areas like Betty Brook provide a more primitive experience with drinking water but no electric or sewer connections.
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