North-South Lake Campground | Catskills

North-South Lake Campground — Detailed Information

Location and Overview

North-South Lake Campground is located in Haines Falls, New York, within the Catskill Forest Preserve. It is the largest and most popular state campground in the Catskills, situated at an elevation of about 2,130 feet. The campground lies near two scenic lakes — North Lake and South Lake — and provides visitors with access to a rich variety of outdoor recreational activities, stunning views, and historic sites.

Campground Facilities and Amenities

Sites:
The campground offers 219 campsites spread across seven loops, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs (without hookups). Sites vary from shaded forest spots to open areas near the lakes.

Restrooms and Showers:
Flush toilets and hot showers are available to campers, providing comfortable amenities in a wilderness setting.

Picnic and Recreation:
Several picnic areas are equipped with tables and grills, perfect for family meals and gatherings. There is also a playground for children and sports fields for activities like volleyball and horseshoes.

Water and Firewood:
Potable water is available at multiple locations. Firewood is sold on-site, but visitors are encouraged to use local firewood to prevent spreading pests.

Waste Disposal:
The campground includes a trailer dump station and recycling center to manage waste responsibly.

Lakes and Water Activities

North Lake:
Approximately 84 acres in size with a maximum depth of about 12 feet, North Lake is a focal point for boating, fishing, and swimming.

South Lake:
Slightly smaller, South Lake is adjacent to North Lake and shares many recreational opportunities.

Boating:
Only non-motorized boats are allowed to preserve the lakes’ tranquility and ecosystem. Rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats are available for rent at the campground.

Swimming:
The campground has designated swimming beaches staffed with lifeguards from Memorial Day through Labor Day, offering a safe spot for families.

Fishing:
The lakes are home to various fish species, including largemouth bass, chain pickerel, black crappie, tiger muskellunge, and pumpkinseed sunfish. Ice fishing is also permitted during winter months when conditions allow.

Hiking and Scenic Attractions

North-South Lake Campground serves as a gateway to some of the Catskills’ most renowned scenic spots and hiking trails:

Catskill Mountain House Site:
The ruins of the historic Catskill Mountain House hotel can be reached by a short hike, providing panoramic views of the Hudson Valley and surrounding mountains.

Alligator Rock:
A distinctive rock formation offering unique vistas over the Hudson Valley.

Kaaterskill Falls:
One of New York State’s tallest waterfalls, featuring a dramatic two-tiered drop of nearly 260 feet. It’s accessible via hiking trails starting near the campground.

Sunset Rocks & Newman's Ledge:
Popular viewpoints for watching spectacular sunsets over the mountains.

Boulder Rock & Laurel House Ruins:
Historic sites offering a glimpse into the Catskills’ past, with scenic overlooks.

Day Use Area

Located on the far eastern side of North Lake, the day-use area includes:

A hand boat launch with dock and kayak slide, providing easy access for launching small boats.

Boat rental facilities for visitors without their own equipment.

A picnic pavilion suitable for group gatherings.

Accessible features for visitors with disabilities.

Wildlife and Natural Environment

The campground and surrounding forests provide habitat for various wildlife species, including white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and numerous songbirds. The forest is a mix of northern hardwoods like maple, birch, and beech, along with conifers.

Rules and Policies

Pets:
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and ensuring they do not disturb other campers.

Fires:
Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Visitors must follow campground rules to prevent forest fires.

Quiet Hours:
Typically enforced from 10 PM to 7 AM to ensure a peaceful environment for all campers.

Reservations and Access

Season:
Open seasonally from mid-May to late October (usually May 16 to October 26).

Reservations:
Sites can be reserved in advance through New York State’s ReserveAmerica system, especially recommended for weekends and holidays due to high demand.

Access:
Easily reached via County Route 18 (North Lake Road) near Haines Falls. The campground has ample parking and well-marked loops.

Contact Information:
Phone: (518) 589-5058
Official website: New York State DEC’s North-South Lake page.

North-South Lake Campground offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and historical interest, making it an ideal base for exploring the Catskill Mountains. Whether camping, hiking, fishing, boating, or simply relaxing by the water, visitors enjoy a rich, family-friendly experience in a scenic wilderness setting.