North-South Lake Campground operates from May 19 to October 22, serving as the largest state campground in the Catskill Forest Preserve near Lake Hill, New York. The facility sits at an elevation of 2,200 feet within the northeastern Catskill Mountains, approximately 12 miles from Lake Hill. Winter temperatures in this region typically range from 15-35°F, while summer months average 65-85°F with moderate precipitation year-round.
What to do
Swimming in natural lakes: North-South Lake Campground provides designated swimming areas with family-friendly shorelines. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," notes Lizz H. in her review of North-South Lake Campground.
Hiking to waterfalls: Trails connect directly from camping areas to notable landmarks. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot. We had a wonderful weekend there," reports Brittany W. about North-South Lake Campground.
Fishing in stocked waters: Betty Brook Camp offers streamside fishing opportunities in a more remote setting. "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots," explains Robert B. in his review of Betty Brook Camp.
Kayaking and boating: Several water bodies near Lake Hill support non-motorized watercraft. "There is an area for day use where you can rent a paddle boat or kayak to go out on the water," notes J G. about Bear Spring Mountain.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain regular maintenance schedules. "The restrooms were clean and had showers, which we did not expect," mentions Brittany W. about her stay at North-South Lake Campground.
Natural water sources: The region features freshwater springs and streams. "Endless hiking and beautiful steams - you can drink straight from the pipes!" writes Kimberly S. about Bear Spring Mountain.
Privacy between sites: Betty Brook Camp provides more secluded camping. "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," shares Robert B.
Year-round accessibility: While most established campgrounds have seasonal operations, some dispersed options remain available during winter months. "I live near this campground. I'm about a mile away and I pass it every day. It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road," notes Peter about Betty Brook Camp.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "Reserve very early for waterfront," advises Rachel G. about North-South Lake Campground.
Crowd levels: Many campgrounds experience peak visitation during summer months and holidays. "Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds," recommends Tara L. about North-South Lake, which she describes as "one of the larger public camp grounds in New York."
Site variations: Campgrounds often feature differently sized sites accommodating various group configurations. "This campground has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single," explains Eliany L. about North-South Lake.
Bear safety: The Catskill region has black bear populations requiring proper food storage. "Obey bear rules!" emphasizes Amber A. about Bear Spring Mountain.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas. "Small playground was nice for the kids," notes Becky S. about her stay at Bear Spring Mountain.
Beginner-friendly trails: Several locations feature easier hiking options suitable for children. "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 North-South Lake Campground.
Multi-generational appeal: Several campgrounds accommodate visitors of various ages and abilities. "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," writes Chris D.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Some horse campgrounds near Lake Hill, New York have limitations for larger 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 regarding Betty Brook Camp.
Elevation considerations: Roads leading to campgrounds in the area often involve steep grades. "Brought bikes but the roads were way too steep," mentions Becky S. about Bear Spring Mountain.
Hookup availability: Services vary significantly between established campgrounds and dispersed options. "Clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails," notes Rachel G. about North-South Lake Campground, which offers electric hookups, water connections, and sanitary dump stations.
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