North-South Lake Campground encompasses 219 sites across 7 loops within the Catskill Forest Preserve at elevations between 2,000-2,250 feet. The campground borders both North and South Lakes, with waterfront sites requiring early reservations. Weather conditions vary widely by season, with summer temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby valley locations.
What to do
Horseback riding options: While North-South Lake Campground lacks dedicated horse facilities, equestrian camping near Marlboro, New York can be found at Ocquittunk in Stokes State Forest. "Nice place to set up and car camp. Enjoyed some fishing and hiking within walking distance from the site," notes Vito M. The forest maintains several multi-use trails suitable for horses.
Lake swimming: The twin lakes offer designated swimming areas with seasonal lifeguard supervision. "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 Campground. Swimming hours typically run 10am-6pm during peak season.
Fall foliage viewing: The Catskills region provides excellent autumn color viewing from mid-September through late October. "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. The viewing platform at Kaaterskill Falls offers panoramic vistas of changing leaves.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness receives consistent positive mentions from visitors. "Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable, bathrooms & beach areas are always clean, & the hiking nearby is fantastic," says Jessica W. about North-South Lake. Shower facilities are available throughout the camping season.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Sites accommodate various group sizes and provide good separation between campers. "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking," notes Becky G. The campground layout offers loops with varying levels of privacy and access to amenities.
Lake access: Waterfront camping provides direct views and easy access to water recreation. "We stayed at site #T007 is was a short walk from the car to the site, but so worth it for many reasons. The site itself is huge and we were able to position our tent facing the lake, it was beautiful!" explains Kara L. about Ocquittunk. Lakeside sites typically fill first during reservation periods.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Peak season fills quickly, requiring advance planning. "Always packed, but always beautiful. Awesome access to the Catskill Escaprment trail from here," advises Maribeth W. about North-South Lake Campground. Reservations open 9 months in advance through Reserve America.
Strict food storage regulations: Black bear activity necessitates proper food management with all food secured in vehicles or hard-sided containers. The campground does not provide bear boxes. Rangers actively enforce food storage rules with potential fines for violations.
Seasonal closures: The operational season runs May 19 through October 22, with shoulder seasons offering less crowded conditions. "Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds," recommends Tara L. Water systems are winterized after closing, and no winter camping options exist at North-South Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Beach supervision: Lifeguarded swimming areas provide safer water recreation for children. "Two lakes. Highly recommended," states Luka M. about North-South Lake. Lifeguards typically staff beaches from late June through Labor Day weekend, with hours posted at beach entrances.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on proximity to bathrooms and beaches for family convenience. "This campground has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single. Great place to camp," shares Eliany L. about North-South Lake Campground. Sites in loops closer to bathhouses offer shorter walks for younger children.
Kid-friendly trails: Several shorter hiking trails accommodate younger hikers with minimal elevation gain. "The bathrooms are clean and nicely placed. The sites had a fire ring with a cooking grate and a picnic table and were well spaced out from other sites. The views of the lake are nice, very peaceful," notes Catherine S. about Ocquittunk. The Artist's Rock trail provides a 0.25-mile accessible path to scenic viewpoints.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: RV sites lack full hookups but offer generator hours for power needs. "Clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails. perfect Hudson getaway," shares Rachel G. Generator use is restricted to 9am-11am and 4pm-7pm daily.
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling blocks for RVs due to natural terrain. "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," explains Chris D. about North-South Lake Campground. Loop A sites typically offer the most level options for larger RVs.
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