North-South Lake Campground in the Catskills offers spacious sites within walking distance of lakes and trails. The campground operates from May to October with sites accommodating tents and RVs. Accessibility varies across the region's campgrounds, with some providing direct creek access while others feature more isolated camping loops and terrain ranging from flat platforms to wooded hills. Winter weather can make travel difficult, with most facilities closing by late October.
What to do
Explore waterfalls nearby: Campers at Taconic State Park often visit Bash Bish Falls, just a short hike from the campground. "Trails to Bash Bish Falls which is beautiful. It was low the first time we visited and we were able to make it to the top of the falls to go swimming and the views were incredible," shares Jackie G.
Cool off in swimming areas: North-South Lake Campground provides swimming options during summer months. "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time," notes Lizz H. The campground features "two lakes" according to Luka M., making it an ideal spot for water activities.
Hike mountain trails: The Catskills offer numerous hiking options with varying difficulty levels. At Kenneth L Wilson Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Got chased off by a bear... the hiking areas are great, the weather is perfect and the bear was very nice for a bear." While wildlife encounters are uncommon, they highlight the natural environment of the area.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: At Woodland Valley Campground, campers appreciate the natural setting. "The mountain creek is like nature singing a lullaby - sleeping next to it was very relaxing; weather was great and we could see the stars through the canopy," reports John N. This smaller campground offers more seclusion than larger facilities.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the region maintain good standards. At Taconic State Park, "The facilities were just what you needed after a long day of hiking and swimming." The bathrooms and shower buildings are regularly maintained at most locations.
Creek access: Water features enhance the camping experience at several locations. Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds offers creek sites that campers enjoy. "We were over in 'Lover's Lane' so it was isolated on a separate loop. Couples only on this loop, no kids! Pricey--$60 a night. But super nice being right on the creek--we took our chairs and plopped down in the water," says Kyla B.
What you should know
No cell service in some areas: Connectivity varies throughout the region. At Woodland Valley, one camper noted, "No mobile signal, but that's the point, isn't it? You get to disconnect from it all for a while." Plan accordingly if you need to stay connected.
Campsite privacy varies: Site spacing differs between campgrounds and within the same facility. At Lake Taghkanic State Park, a camper advised, "Beware of site G006. The grill at the fire pit is upside down, so it doesn't hold level above the fire. Impossible to use." Research specific site numbers before booking.
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate from May through mid-October. At Mills Norrie State Park, "Campground is empty during the week, and more crowded on weekends." Shoulder season camping offers more privacy but potentially cooler temperatures.
Wildlife awareness: Bears are present in the Catskills. Kenneth L Wilson Campground has bear activity, and a camper reported, "If you leave food out you will get a warning notice if seen." Proper food storage is essential at all locations.
Tips for camping with families
Look for organized activities: Some campgrounds cater specifically to families. Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds offers "a great heated pool that our little one loved. Lots of space to run around and a cute mini golf area," according to a visitor at Brook N Wood Family Campground. Another camper noted Rip Van Winkle has "amazing campground with perfectly spaced large sites. There's a few playgrounds a great pool and a lot of amenities."
Choose campgrounds with beach areas: Swimming areas provide entertainment for children. At Lake Taghkanic State Park, "Great beach, 5 minute drive from campgound. Clean facilities, with a rec room for rainy days. A camp store with all the supplies you might have forgotten."
Consider platform tent sites: Several campgrounds offer raised platforms that keep tents dry. At Taconic State Park, "The platform sites are great it makes it real easy to set up a tent because of the platform that the tent goes on." This feature is particularly helpful during rainy periods or for less experienced campers.
Check pet policies: Dog friendly campgrounds near Tivoli have specific rules. Blue Mountain Campground welcomes pets but requires vaccination records. One camper at Kenneth L Wilson noted, "Check-in was easy, if you bring a pet make sure you have your paperwork with you, they do actually look at it."
Tips from RVers
Reserve full hookup sites early: For RVers seeking amenities, Interlake RV Park offers complete services. "This year the most basic site with water costs $46; add electric on up to sewer and cable tv and you'll pay as much as $60/night. With that you get free wi-fi, a heated pool, a lake for fishing and boating," notes Jean C.
Watch for leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. At Mills Norrie State Park, a camper warned, "There are only a handful of sites with electric hookups and only one (site 51) is level. Some have a steep descent off the road, and there's a lip on the road that can scrape bottom of campers/RVs."
Consider shared hookups: At Brook N Wood Family Campground, "The C section (30 amp) has some shade trees and all grassy sites. Shared hook ups (two sites on one pole) at the rear of the sites with the exception of sewer." This arrangement affects how you position your RV.
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