Betty Brook Camp offers primitive camping alongside a stream in a remote yet accessible location near Summit. The site sits along West Kill Road with several designated spots that accommodate tent camping. Access to the campground requires driving down a maintained dirt road with designated camping areas featuring fire pits.
What to do
Trail exploration: Charles E. Baker State Forest provides miles of hiking trails through dense woodland. "Beautiful forest with miles of trails," notes one camper who discovered the location while biking through. The forest offers free primitive camping with official camp spots that have water access.
Horseback riding: Bear Spring Mountain campground features extensive horse trails connecting to surrounding forest areas. As one visitor mentions, "There is a lot of horse activity" at the campground, making it a practical alternative for equestrians looking for established trails with varied terrain. The area connects with multiple trail networks suitable for different riding experience levels.
Water activities: North-South Lake campground offers swimming and boating opportunities. A regular visitor shares, "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time." The campground features a large lake with designated swimming areas and boat rentals available during summer months.
What campers like
Natural water sources: Betty Brook Camp provides stream-side camping with fresh water access. One camper reports, "You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots" making it ideal for those who appreciate waterfront camping without crowds. The stream offers both ambiance and practical water access for experienced campers.
Remote atmosphere: Betty Brook Camp attracts those seeking solitude. A regular camper explains, "Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people," highlighting the location's appeal for campers wanting minimal interaction with others. The remote setting provides a genuine wilderness experience within reasonable proximity to Summit.
Clean facilities: Bear Spring Mountain maintains well-kept amenities despite its rural setting. A visitor noted the campground has "Clean, private, and quiet" sites, while another mentioned "Standard bath houses and camp site picnic tables and grills." The campground provides expected amenities without sacrificing the natural environment.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Betty Brook Camp lacks developed amenities. "It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road," explains a local resident. The nearest town is approximately 8 miles away with only basic services at a gas station store. Campers should arrive fully supplied with necessities.
Reservation requirements: North-South Lake Campground experiences heavy usage during peak seasons. "Always packed, but always beautiful," warns one camper about the popularity of this destination. Avoid holidays to minimize crowds, and make reservations well in advance for waterfront sites, which typically fill months ahead.
Water availability: Charles E. Baker State Forest provides water access at a nearby pond, but lacks water pumps or treatment facilities. A visitor recommends the site but notes, "Only giving 4 stars because the best free sites have water pumps and vault toilets." Campers need to bring water filtration systems for extended stays.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible activities: North-South Lake Campground offers family-friendly amenities within an easy-to-navigate setting. One visitor describes it as a "Large family friendly campground with all the amenities - boating, showers, great hiking," making it particularly suitable for groups with varied interests and abilities.
Educational opportunities: The historical significance of certain trails provides learning moments for children. A camper who brought his family explains, "Camping, swimming, hiking, boating, biking, this place has it all," allowing families to incorporate multiple activities into their outdoor experience without extensive travel between locations.
Weather preparedness: Summit area campgrounds experience significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, particularly in spring and fall. Pack layered clothing and rain gear regardless of season, as mountain weather patterns can change rapidly with elevation differences throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Bear Spring Mountain accommodates larger vehicles but requires advance planning. "Small place, not a whole lot to do," notes one RVer, suggesting the importance of selecting sites based on size requirements rather than location within the campground. Request specific information about access road conditions when making reservations.
Hookup availability: Several campgrounds near Summit offer variable hookup options. Check specific site utilities before booking, as many locations provide electric service without full water or sewer connections. Arrive with fresh water tanks filled when staying at primitive or partially-serviced sites.
Road conditions: Access roads to many Summit area campgrounds include gravel sections with occasional steep grades. RVers report challenging terrain on certain approach routes, particularly after rain. Call ahead to verify current road conditions before attempting access with larger rigs during spring thaw or following heavy rainfall.
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