Bear Spring Mountain provides equestrian camping facilities within the western Catskills region. Located near Margaretville, New York, this designated horse-friendly campground sits at approximately 2,000 feet elevation in Delaware County. The campground covers part of a 7,000-acre state forest with varied terrain including wooded trails, mountain slopes, and stream crossings accessible to riders of different skill levels.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: Bear Spring Mountain features multiple trail routes that connect to the broader state forest network. "Nothing but woods all around! Endless hiking and beautiful steams - you can drink straight from the pipes!" notes Kimberly S. about Bear Spring Mountain.
Pond activities: The small lake at Bear Spring Mountain offers fishing and paddling opportunities. "There is an area for day use where you can rent a paddle boat or kayak to go out on the water. Highly recommended if you like hiking," reports J G. about the recreation options.
Waterfall visits: The region's natural features include accessible waterfalls. "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot. We had a wonderful weekend there," writes Brittany W. about North-South Lake Campground.
What campers like
Natural settings: Equestrian campgrounds near Margaretville provide immersion in forested landscapes. "We were there in May and there were plenty of empty sites so it was nice and quiet," says Mayra D. about her stay at Bear Spring Mountain.
Water features: The combination of streams and ponds enhances the camping experience. "One of my favorite swimming spots. I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," shares Lizz H. about North-South Lake.
Camping along streams: Some dispersed camping options provide direct water access. "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. You camp on the stream," explains Robert B. about Betty Brook Camp.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most horse campgrounds near Margaretville operate from mid-May through late August or early fall, with varying schedules. Bear Spring Mountain typically opens mid-May and closes in late August.
Site privacy varies: Campgrounds offer different levels of seclusion between sites. "Clean, private, and quiet! We had a blast!!" reports Amanda P. about her experience at Bear Spring Mountain.
Facility conditions: Bathhouses and amenities are regularly maintained but basic. "Standard bath houses and camp site picnic tables and grills," notes J G. about Bear Spring Mountain.
Wildlife awareness: The area has active wildlife including bears. "Obey bear rules!" emphasizes Amber A., who visited Bear Spring Mountain with friends from NYC.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "Small playground was nice for the kids," mentions Becky S. about her stay at Bear Spring Mountain.
Swimming options: Family-friendly water recreation enhances the experience. "Great for families. The lake is huge," writes Tara L. about North-South Lake Campground.
Accessible hiking: The region offers trails suitable for various ages and abilities. "A lot of the hiking nearby is also relatively easy and includes the newly opened (as of 2016) viewing platform for Kaasterskill falls," explains Jessica W. from North-South Lake.
Multi-generational appeal: The area attracts return visitors who bring their own families. "I'm a native of the Catskills and spent many an afternoon with my family enjoying the facilities. 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 his experiences at North-South Lake.
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Some dispersed camping areas have restricted access for larger vehicles. "I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small," cautions Peter about Betty Brook Camp.
Hookup availability: Electric, water, and sewer connections are available at select campgrounds. Plan accordingly for RV camping needs in the Catskills region.
Terrain considerations: The mountainous landscape presents navigation challenges. "Brought bikes but the roads were way too steep," notes Becky S. about her experience at Bear Spring Mountain.
Legend
