North-South Lake Campground offers specialized accommodations for trail riders seeking equestrian camping in the Catskills region. Located at an elevation of 2,250 feet, the campground serves as a central hub for horse owners exploring the mountain trail network. The facility maintains separate equestrian camping areas to minimize disturbance between horse campers and other visitors during the May to October season.
What to do
Explore pristine mountain streams: Campgrounds near West Shokan provide access to crystal-clear waterways. At Bear Spring Mountain — DEC, visitors can enjoy multiple water activities. "Nothing but woods all around! Endless hiking and beautiful steams - you can drink straight from the pipes!" notes Kimberly S. The area features natural springs and protected watersheds.
Kayak on forest ponds: Several equestrian campgrounds near West Shokan, New York offer paddling opportunities adjacent to horse trails. "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 Bear Spring Mountain. Most rental facilities operate from late May through September.
Hike to waterfalls: The region's trails connect to notable cascades within a short distance of camping areas. Brittany W. mentions, "Located just about a mile from Kaaterskill Falls this campground couldn't be in a better spot." Many trailheads accommodate horse trailer parking with dedicated tie-up areas for riders stopping at scenic overlooks.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Betty Brook Camp offers secluded camping directly adjacent to bridle paths. "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," says Robert B. Sites typically measure 100-150 feet apart, providing ample privacy.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the maintenance standards at horse-friendly campgrounds. Eliany L. notes, "Great restrooms cleaned every morning staff was very friendly, awesome!! This campground has many different size sites big enough for groups and small for just single." Shower facilities typically include designated areas for muddy boots and riding gear.
Swimming opportunities: North-South Lake Campground provides water recreation after trail rides. Lizz H. shares, "I go there almost every year to go swimming with my family and friends and it's always a good time." The swimming areas include designated zones where horses can be watered safely away from recreational swimmers.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: During peak periods, popular horse campgrounds experience high visitor numbers. Maribeth W. warns, "Always packed, but always beautiful. Awesome access to the Catskill Escaprment trail from here." Trail congestion typically occurs on summer weekends between 10am-2pm.
Trail difficulty varies: The Catskill region offers paths suitable for different experience levels. "A lot of the hiking nearby is also relatively easy and includes the newly opened (as of 2016) viewing platform for Kaasterskill falls, which is minutes down the road from the campground," explains Jessica W. Horse trails are marked according to difficulty with color-coded blazes.
Limited phone service: Many horse campgrounds near West Shokan have minimal cellular coverage. Peter from Betty Brook Camp describes the location as "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." Riders should carry paper maps as GPS applications may not function reliably.
Tips for camping with families
Pack for changing weather: Mountain elevations create variable conditions throughout the day. "Clean and well run campground with beautiful lakes and surrounded by trails. perfect Hudson getaway. Reserve very early for waterfront," advises Rachel G. Temperature drops of 15-20 degrees after sunset are common, even in summer months.
Choose multi-activity sites: Bear Spring Mountain — DEC offers diverse recreation beyond horseback riding. Mayra D. reports, "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." The combination of water features and trails provides options for non-riders in horse camping groups.
Consider site proximity: When booking horse campgrounds, evaluate distances between amenities. "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," shares Jessica W. Sites closest to water spigots and manure disposal areas offer convenience for families managing horses.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Horse campgrounds near West Shokan accommodate varying RV lengths. "Small place, not a whole lot to do. I was hoping for a great view of the Catskills, but the hikes didn't deliver. Friendly staff, decent amenities," notes Becky S. Most equestrian sites limit RVs to under 32 feet due to narrow access roads and turning radiuses.
Water and electric hookups: RV campers should verify utility availability when booking. Tara L. advises, "North South lake is one of the larger public camp grounds in New York. The sites are well spaced out. Great for families. The lake is huge. Avoid holidays to avoid the crowds." Designated horse camping areas often provide separate electrical hookups for horse trailers with living quarters.
Reserve early for peak season: Equestrian sites with RV accommodations book quickly. Chris D. reflects, "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." Reservation windows typically open 9 months in advance with most equestrian sites filling 4-6 months before summer weekends.
