Kingston, New York offers limited equestrian camping options within a 50-mile radius. The Catskill region surrounding Kingston features state forests and camping areas where visitors can potentially bring horses, though dedicated horse facilities are uncommon. Most campgrounds operate seasonally due to the northeastern climate, with peak season running May through October when temperatures average 60-80°F during daytime hours.
What to do
Hiking trails access: North-South Lake Campground provides connections to the Catskill Escarpment trail system. "Awesome access to the Catskill Escaprment trail from here," notes Maribeth W., though she mentions it's "always packed, but always beautiful."
Swimming opportunities: The twin lakes at North-South Lake Campground provide popular swimming areas during summer months. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," shares Lizz H.
Waterfall viewing: Kaaterskill Falls is located approximately one mile from North-South Lake Campground. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot," reports Brittany W., who appreciated the proximity to this natural landmark.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Maintaining sanitary conditions remains a priority at established campgrounds. At North-South Lake Campground, Eliany L. found "Great restrooms cleaned every morning staff was very friendly, awesome!!"
Waterfront access: Lakeside sites provide direct water views and quick access to swimming areas. "Clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails. perfect Hudson getaway. Reserve very early for waterfront," advises Rachel G.
Remote locations: For those seeking solitude, Betty Brook Camp offers primitive dispersed camping options. "Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream," explains Robert B., who has been visiting the area for decades.
What you should know
Site reservations: Campgrounds near Kingston fill quickly during peak season. At North-South Lake, day use areas are separate from campsites, and misunderstandings can occur. Melissa O. learned this the hard way: "We were not camping but didn't realize we couldn't park in an empty campsite. I think 'common sense' would be to inform DAY USE visitors at the ENTRANCE to use public parking."
Amenity variations: Facilities differ significantly between established and dispersed camping areas. Peter notes about Betty Brook Camp: "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."
Crowd management: Holiday weekends bring significantly higher visitor numbers. "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 camping with families
Diverse recreation options: Multiple activities keep children engaged during longer stays. Chris D. recounts: "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."
Beginner-friendly trails: Several hiking routes near North-South Lake Campground accommodate younger hikers. Jessica W. confirms the area offers "hiking nearby [that] 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."
Designated family areas: Some campground sections cater specifically to families with children. Becky G. describes North-South Lake as a "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger recreational vehicles. When considering Betty Brook Camp for RV camping, Peter cautions: "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."
Dispersed camping access: Some primitive camping areas have restricted vehicle access. Robert B., who enjoys Betty Brook Camp "all year long," mentions "There is a couple of spots" where camping is possible, but the limited space affects larger vehicle accommodations.
Utility hookups: While searching for equestrian-friendly options near Kingston, RV campers should verify utility availability. Established campgrounds like North-South Lake offer electric hookups, while dispersed options like Betty Brook Camp provide no utilities, requiring self-contained operation.
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