Catskill Mountain State Park surrounds Preston Hollow, NY and offers wilderness camping options at elevations between 1,200 and 2,100 feet. The area features dense deciduous forest with multiple small lakes and streams. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing, while summer brings mild 70-80°F days with cooler nights around 50-60°F.
What to do
Trail riding adventures: Betty Brook Camp provides access to extensive state park trails for horseback riding. According to Robert B., "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. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream." The nearby trails accommodate riders of varying experience levels.
Fishing in mountain streams: Several creeks and small ponds near Bear Spring Mountain — DEC offer trout fishing opportunities from April through October. J G. notes, "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. Great flowers and nature. There is a hiking loop that goes around the pond."
Scenic hiking: The higher elevations near Preston Hollow provide moderate to difficult terrain for day hikers. Kevin T. mentions about Bear Spring Mountain, "This campsite isn't the best but is still good. There is horses so you will smell them. There is a lake, grills restrooms and showers. You can also do short day hikes."
What campers like
Quiet wilderness setting: Many campers appreciate the remoteness of camping areas near Preston Hollow. Peter explains 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."
Seasonal flexibility: The region offers year-round camping opportunities with distinct seasonal experiences. Robert B. shares: "Love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now." Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers cooler mountain temperatures, fall shows spectacular foliage, and winter provides solitude for prepared campers.
Natural water features: Multiple camping areas feature streams, ponds, or small lakes. Mayra D. comments about Bear Spring Mountain — DEC: "Cute and friendly campground by Launt pond. We were there in May and there were plenty of empty sites so it was nice and quiet."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most horse campgrounds near Preston Hollow offer basic amenities only. Peter warns 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."
Accessibility challenges: Mountain roads can be steep and narrow, especially problematic during winter or after heavy rain. Becky S. mentions about Bear Spring Mountain: "Brought bikes but the roads were way too steep. Small playground was nice for the kids."
Wildlife precautions: Bears are active in the region, requiring proper food storage. Amber A. advises: "Obey bear rules!" Other wildlife includes deer, foxes, raccoons, and occasional coyotes. Secure trash and store food properly to avoid encounters.
Tips for camping with families
Day trip distances: Some families prefer using North-South Lake Campground as a base for day trips to Preston Hollow horse areas. Jessica W. notes, "This campsite is by far my favorite in the Catskills! Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable, bathrooms & beach areas are always clean, & the hiking nearby is fantastic."
Swimming options: Several natural swimming areas provide summer recreation for children. Lizz H. shares about North-South Lake: "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time."
Campsite selection: For families with children, choose sites near facilities. Becky G. advises: "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking." Waterfront sites book quickly during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most horse camps near Preston Hollow cannot accommodate larger RVs. Peter notes 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."
Water and waste management: Many primitive sites lack hookups. Bring sufficient water and plan for proper waste disposal. Chris D. mentions about North-South Lake Campground: "Camping, swimming, hiking, boating, biking, this place has it all." The developed campgrounds offer more amenities for RVs than dispersed sites.
Off-season advantages: Consider visiting outside peak summer months when facilities are less crowded. Amanda P. shares about Bear Spring Mountain: "Clean, private, and quiet! We had a blast!!" Shoulder seasons offer more availability and often more pleasant temperatures.
Legend
