North-South Lake Campground | Catskills

Information

Landmark: North-South Lake Campground
City: Catskills
Country: USA New York
Continent: North America

North-South Lake Campground, Catskills, USA New York, North America

North-South Lake Campground is a public recreation area situated in the Catskill Mountains of New York State.

It encompasses two primary bodies of water, North Lake and South Lake, surrounded by forested terrain.

Visual Characteristics

The campground features two distinct lakes: North Lake, characterized by its rocky shores and clear water, and South Lake, which has a more developed beach area. The surrounding landscape is dominated by deciduous forest, with elevations reaching approximately 2,000 feet. Campground sites are primarily cleared areas within the forest, offering varying degrees of shade.

Location & Access Logistics

North-South Lake Campground is located approximately 10 miles west of the village of Catskill, New York. Access is via County Route 18 (Haines Falls Road), which connects to New York State Route 23. The campground entrance is clearly marked. Parking is available at designated lots throughout the campground and at trailheads. Public transportation options are limited; the nearest bus service operates to the village of Catskill.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The area was historically a resort destination in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for its grand hotels. The lakes themselves are natural, formed by glacial activity. The surrounding forest is a mixed hardwood ecosystem, typical of the Appalachian Mountain region.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include swimming at the South Lake beach, boating (non-motorized permitted) on both lakes, fishing, and hiking. Specific trails include the Escarpment Trail, which offers views of the Hudson Valley, and the shorter trails around the lakes. Camping is available in designated sites.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms with flush toilets and showers are available. Picnic tables and fire rings are provided at campsites. Shade is available from the forest canopy. Cell phone signal is intermittent within the campground and surrounding areas.

Best Time to Visit

The campground is open from late spring through early fall. For swimming and boating, the months of June through August are optimal. For hiking, late spring (May) and early fall (September-October) offer cooler temperatures and autumn foliage. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best natural light for photography of the lakes and surrounding mountains.

Facts & Legends

The Catskill Mountain House, a famous 19th-century hotel, once stood overlooking North Lake. Its foundations are still visible. A local legend speaks of a phantom train that occasionally appears on the old railroad bed near the campground.