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Catskill/North-South Lake
Overview
North-South Lake Campground stands as the most popular state-run facility in the Catskill Forest Preserve. Nestled in the heart of the mountains, this expansive destination offers a rare blend of lush wilderness and historical significance. It is famed for its breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley and its two interconnected lakes, which provide a tranquil center for all outdoor activities. Travelers visit this park to reconnect with nature while exploring the very landscape that inspired 19th-century American art and literature.
Location & Surroundings
Perched on a high plateau in Haines Falls, NY, the campground is surrounded by the iconic peaks of the Catskills. The environment is characterized by dense hardwood forests and dramatic escarpments that offer sweeping views of the surrounding counties. Its unique elevation ensures that travelers experience crisp mountain air and a sense of seclusion, even though the park is easily accessible from main scenic byways. The surrounding wilderness creates a deep sense of place, making it feel like a true escape from the bustle of modern life.
Amenities & Park Features
This facility is designed for a traditional outdoor experience, meaning RV sites are primitive without utility hookups. However, the park offers well-maintained dump stations and modern restroom facilities with hot showers to accommodate self-contained campers. The highlights of the park are the two large swimming beaches and the seasonal boat rentals, allowing visitors to spend their days paddling across the calm waters. Numerous picnic areas with charcoal grills are scattered throughout the grounds, making it easy to enjoy meals in the fresh air.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Adventure is always within reach, with the legendary Kaaterskill Falls located just a short distance away, offering one of the most famous photographic opportunities in New York. Hikers often challenge themselves on the Escarpment Trail to reach landmarks like Artist’s Rock or the former site of the Catskill Mountain House. The proximity to the Hunter Mountain area adds opportunities for seasonal festivals and scenic sky-rides, while the nearby village of Tannersville provides charming local dining and shopping options.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is a match for active families and RVers who value scenery and trail access over digital connectivity or luxury resort features. It is an excellent choice for those prepared for boondocking in a well-organized state park setting. If you seek a quiet retreat where the sounds of the forest replace highway noise and you enjoy spending your days on the water or the trail, this historic mountain getaway is an ideal fit for your travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Tammy Russel
Been coming to North South Lake for many years. On 10/10/2025 Had a issue with the campers in site 174 after quiet hours. Playing loud music, and very very loud til 3am. 10am is quiet hours! I was kept up all night with nonsense I Called the check in booth, was told by Karen, (always very obnoxious and rude by the way) she said she would send security and no one showed up! This year sadly, the employees at check in are very disrespectful, never was this way at all! This used to be a great campground but going to pieces fast! Management wants us to follow the rules and I expect Management to also follow the rules to protect other campers and follow the rules they put in place themselves. Dont lie and say you are gonna send someone and dont! Forest Rangers are great but the check in desk needs employees that are friendly! After working all day I come up here for peace!
Kathryn Evans
Facilities and campsite are excellent. The ranger was lovely. Sadly, the a booth employee was obnoxious. We back packed the escarpment trail and after being a bit lost ended up at North South campground at 9 PM. We set up camp in loop 1, spot 4. The ranger came by at 10 PM to let us know that we need reservations and to check in at the booth the following day. We did as told but were met by an aggressive woman who reprimanded us. She said in a very angry tone "The ranger was wrong. You should of been escorted out of the park. You are trespassing. You can get a large fine for what you did." and on and on....... When asked where we should of camped, she gave us several campsites that are 10 miles away. Not ideal for us because we were on foot and it was 9 PM. We paid $28.75 for our camping spot and would of liked to camp there the next night but she said NO. I would like to thank the ranger that allowed us to camp in what she called "the open spot for situations like this". I'm grateful for her actions. I highly recommend hiking the escarpment and the Kaaterskill Fall hike, staying at North South campground, but avoid the entry booth.
Robert Quinn
We enjoyed our night here, the sites on loop #7 were quite large and decently spaced. Of course sound travels and so a lot depends on your neighbors, overall we got lucky. Washroom had a nice sink for dishes and hot water. Pretty easy camping. The other loops are closer to the lakes and slightly smaller and closer together. The lake was pretty low at end of summer. The Park is pretty nice with a fair number of healthy hikes available.
J D
I spent my childhood summers camping at North Lake, and decided to go back after a long hiatus. Everything was just as beautiful as I remembered. I got a little water site (29) just based off map location, unsure of what it would look like when I got there. It was absolutely stunning, with a little mossy creek beside it that looked out into a thick forest. Neighbors are close enough that you feel safe from bears or predators (I was solo camping), but far enough that you feel like you have privacy. The attendants at the front were informative and kind. The bathrooms were clean and bright, albeit on the older side, but that's to be expected from any campground. The beach at North Lake is still as beautiful as I remember too, with lots of space to sprawl out and adore the beautiful mountains in the distance. Looking forward to going back soon.
Shyla Hanson
Very nice location with great hiking trails and views. The staff drive around and walk on peoples sites while they are not there like it’s normal I think it’s invasion of privacy. When you check in you sign a bear warning stating not to leave garbage, coolers etc unattended but they still gave a violation for garbage that was out while we were eating and literally sitting under the awning on the camper. I will not be coming back to this place.