North-South Lake Campground is situated within the Catskill Forest Preserve at an elevation of approximately 2,200 feet, providing access to the historic Catskill Mountain House site where many 19th-century landscape painters found inspiration. The campground lies adjacent to two merged glacial lakes surrounded by hardwood forests that display vibrant fall colors from mid-September through late October. Winter conditions typically close the area from late October through mid-May due to significant snowfall accumulation.
What to do
Hiking the escarpment: From North-South Lake Campground, access the 23-mile Escarpment Trail featuring multiple scenic overlooks. "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. in her North-South Lake Campground review.
Swimming and boating: The connected lakes offer designated swimming beaches with lifeguards during peak season. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," says Lizz H. about the water activities available.
Historical exploration: Visit Artist's Rock, Sunset Rock, and Newman's Ledge for views that inspired the Hudson River School painters. "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.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Regular maintenance of bathrooms and common areas receives consistent praise. "Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable, bathrooms & beach areas are always clean, & the hiking nearby is fantastic," writes Jessica W. about her experience at North-South Lake.
Lake access: Waterfront campsites offer direct views and easy water access. "Reserve very early for waterfront," recommends Rachel G. in her North-South Lake Campground review, calling it a "clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails."
Convenient location: The campground's proximity to regional attractions makes it an ideal base camp. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot. We had a wonderful weekend there. The restrooms were clean and had showers, which we did not expect," reports Brittany W.
What you should know
Reservation demands: The popularity of this destination requires planning months in advance. "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," advises Tara L. in her North-South Lake Campground review.
Day use regulations: Day visitors must use designated day-use areas and parking lots, not vacant campsites. The campground enforces strict rules about where day visitors can park and gather.
Equestrian camping near Highland, New York: While North-South Lake Campground does not offer equestrian facilities, several private campgrounds within a 45-minute drive of Highland provide horse-friendly accommodations with dedicated corrals and access to bridle trails. Most horse camping options require advance reservations and proof of current negative Coggins test.
Tips for camping with families
Multi-generational appeal: The area's accessibility makes it ideal for family gatherings spanning different 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. in his North-South Lake Campground review.
Family-friendly amenities: The campground offers programming designed specifically for younger campers. "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking," notes Becky G.
Educational opportunities: The region's rich natural and cultural history provides learning experiences for children. Several interpretive trails explain the geological formation of the escarpment and the area's significance to early American art.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RVers should research specific site dimensions before booking. While the campground accommodates recreational vehicles, not all sites are suitable for larger rigs.
Utility connections: Electric hookups are available at designated sites, but water and sewer connections vary by loop. Prepare for potential limited connectivity.
Equestrian RV camping options near Highland: For those traveling with horses near Highland, specialized horse-friendly RV campgrounds offer combination sites with both full hookups and adjacent corral space. These dedicated equestrian camping facilities typically provide wash racks, manure disposal areas, and direct access to trail systems.
Legend
