Camping at NORTH-SOUTH LAKE CAMPGROUND

Overview

North-South Lake Campground is one of the largest and most popular campgrounds in the Catskill Forest Preserve in upstate New York. It offers a wide variety of recreational activities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, and boating. The campground is known for its scenic beauty, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, especially from the famous escarpments such as Artists Rock, Sunset Rock, and Newman's Ledge.

Camping Information

• Campsites: The campground consists of over 200 tent and trailer sites, with various options to cater to different camping experiences, from more secluded spots to those with easy access to facilities.

• Amenities: Available amenities at the campground include picnic tables, fire rings, flush toilets, hot showers, a dump station, and a recycling center. Some sites also offer electric hookups.

• Reservations: Reservations can be made online through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation website or through a third-party reservation system. It's recommended to book well in advance, especially for peak summer weekends.

• Accessibility: There are some campsites designated as accessible for those with disabilities, complete with accessible features such as restrooms and showers.

Activities

• Hiking: With over 85 miles of hiking trails, visitors can explore the stunning landscapes of the Catskill Mountains. Trails range from easy, family-friendly walks to challenging climbs.

• Swimming: North-South Lake offers two beaches with lifeguards on duty during the summer season, providing a refreshing swim during the warmer months.

• Boating: Canoeing, kayaking, and rowboating are popular on North-South Lake. Boat rentals are typically available.

• Fishing: Anglers can try their luck fishing for species like trout, bass, and panfish. A valid New York State fishing license is required for those aged 16 and over.

Regulations

• Quiet Hours: Quiet hours are typically enforced to ensure all campers can enjoy a peaceful environment.

• Pets: Pets are usually allowed but must be kept on a leash and attended at all times. Verify the specific pet regulations when making a reservation as they can change.

• Alcohol: The possession of alcohol may be restricted or prohibited, depending on the current regulations in place.

• Firewood: To prevent the spread of invasive insect species, bringing in firewood from outside the area is often prohibited. Firewood can usually be purchased at the campground.

Environmental Stewardship

• Leave No Trace: Campers are encouraged to adhere to Leave No Trace principles to minimize their environmental impact.

• Wildlife: Feeding wildlife is prohibited to protect both animals and campers.

• Natural Features: It's important to respect all the natural features in the area by not defacing rock formations or vegetation.

Nearby Attractions

• Kaaterskill Falls: This two-tiered waterfall is one of the tallest in New York State and a popular nearby attraction.

• Hudson River School Art Trail: Art lovers may enjoy exploring the locations that inspired the Hudson River School painters.

• Towns: The nearby towns of Tannersville, Catskill, and Hudson offer additional dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.