Betty Brook Camp offers dispersed camping opportunities in a remote setting along West Kill Road near Lake Katrine, New York. The primitive sites sit alongside a stream with basic amenities including drinking water, fire pits, and pet-friendly policies. Located in the eastern Catskills at an elevation range of 1,500-2,000 feet, this area experiences typical mountain weather patterns with cool evenings even during summer months and colorful foliage from mid-September through October.
What to do
Waterfront activities: North-South Lake Campground features two substantial lakes perfect for swimming and boating. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," notes Lizz H., highlighting the popularity of the water features at North-South Lake Campground.
Hiking nearby trails: The Catskill Escarpment trail system connects directly to camping areas, providing immediate access to scenic routes. "Awesome access to the Catskill Escaprment trail from here," reports Maribeth W. about North-South Lake. For waterfall enthusiasts, Kaaterskill Falls is remarkably accessible. As Brittany W. notes, the campground is "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls," making it convenient for day trips.
Year-round exploration: Some dispersed camping areas remain accessible throughout the seasons for more adventurous campers. "Love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now," shares Robert B. about Betty Brook Camp, indicating the possibility of winter camping for properly equipped visitors.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Betty Brook Camp offers a quieter alternative to established campgrounds. "Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream," explains Robert B., describing the isolation that appeals to solitude seekers.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the maintenance standards at larger campgrounds. "Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable, bathrooms & beach areas are always clean, & the hiking nearby is fantastic," shares Jessica W. about North-South Lake Campground.
Family-friendly atmosphere: The established campgrounds cater well to groups with children. Tara L. describes North-South Lake as "one of the larger public camp grounds in New York. The sites are well spaced out. Great for families. The lake is huge."
Diverse recreation options: Multiple activities within one location appeals to many visitors. Chris D. remembers, "Camping, swimming, hiking, boating, biking, this place has it all," reinforcing the versatility of recreation opportunities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: North-South Lake requires advance planning, especially for prime locations. Rachel G. advises, "Reserve very early for waterfront," suggesting competition for premium sites.
Seasonal considerations: The operating season for established campgrounds typically runs from May through October. North-South Lake operates from May 19 to October 22, limiting access during winter months.
Crowd management: Popular locations can become busy during peak periods. "Always packed, but always beautiful," notes Maribeth W. about North-South Lake, while Tara L. specifically recommends you "Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds."
Limited equestrian options: Horse campgrounds near Lake Katrine, New York are scarce. Betty Brook Camp permits pets but doesn't offer specific equestrian facilities. Peter, a local resident, provides context: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly hiking: Families appreciate accessible trail options near camp. Jessica W. points out that "A lot of the hiking nearby is also relatively easy and includes the newly opened (as of 2016) viewing platform for Kaasterskill falls."
Unexpected amenities: Some primitive-appearing sites offer more than expected. Brittany W. was pleasantly surprised by North-South Lake: "The restrooms were clean and had showers, which we did not expect."
Site spacing: Country Campsites offers tent, RV, and cabin options with family-friendly spacing. The established sites include amenities like electric hookups, water access, and picnic tables that simplify family camping logistics.
Memory building: Multi-generational experiences create lasting impressions. Chris D. shares, "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."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Not all sites accommodate larger recreational vehicles. Peter cautions about Betty Brook Camp: "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."
Hookup availability: Artisan Hill Farm & Studio offers basic RV camping with drinking water, toilets and shower facilities, though without electrical or water hookups. The facility requires reservations and permits pets.
Site selection guidance: Eliany L. found North-South Lake accommodating for various camping styles: "This campground has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single. Great place to camp."
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