North and south lakes Campground, Loop #6, Campsite #166

For New Yorkers seeking the quintessential escape into nature, the North and South Lake Campground stands out as the premier destination in the Catskill Forest Preserve. Located at the eastern edge of the majestic Catskill Escarpment, this extensive New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a historic site offering unparalleled scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and direct access to some of the Empire State’s most famous vistas and trails.

This destination, which includes the specified Loop #6, Campsite #166, allows you to immerse yourself in a deeply wooded setting while remaining connected to a full suite of amenities. Campsite #166, located within one of the seven camping loops, provides a personal base camp from which to explore the twin lakes—North Lake and South Lake—and the surrounding mountains. It’s a popular spot, recognized for its exceptional natural beauty and the wealth of activities it puts right outside your tent or trailer door.

While the exact features of Campsite #166 will vary slightly—some Loop 6 sites are known for being near the water, others for their deep shade—each site offers a table and fireplace/fire ring, providing the classic camping experience. For New York residents who crave fresh air, hiking, swimming, and a break from the fast pace of urban life, North and South Lake Campground provides a cherished retreat that has drawn visitors for nearly a century.

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## Location and Accessibility

The North and South Lake Campground is nestled deep within the Catskill Mountains, yet remains conveniently accessible from major New York population centers. The facility's physical address is N Lake Rd, Palenville, NY 12436, USA, placing it in Greene County.

Accessibility is typically achieved via the New York State Thruway (I-87). Visitors coming from the south often take Exit 20 at Saugerties, following Route 32 North and then Route 23A West toward the village of Haines Falls. From Haines Falls, County Route 18 leads directly to the campground entrance.

Key aspects of the location include:

• The Catskill Escarpment: The campground sits on a plateau just below 2,200 feet in elevation, affording it incredible, dramatic views overlooking the Hudson Valley that inspired the 19th-century Hudson River School painters.
• Proximity to Historic Sites: The location is adjacent to the former site of the Catskill Mountain House, a legendary 19th-century hotel. The campground entrance also grants direct access to the trailhead for Kaaterskill Falls, New York State's highest two-tiered waterfall.
• Palenville/Haines Falls Area: The nearby villages offer local amenities, shops, restaurants, and additional attractions like Hunter Mountain, which hosts ethnic festivals during the summer season.

Despite its remote, mountain setting, the well-maintained roads and clear signage make the drive a scenic and straightforward journey for campers from the New York Metro area and Upstate regions.

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## Services Offered

The North and South Lake Campground, operated by the NYSDEC, provides an extensive range of facilities designed to maximize the comfort and enjoyment of all campers and day-use visitors. With over 200 tent and trailer sites across seven loops, the services focus on convenience and safety within the wilderness setting:

• Comfort Stations with Hot Showers: Throughout the seven loops, bathhouse facilities provide modern flush toilets and free hot showers, a highly valued amenity for campers after a long day on the trails.
• Boat Rentals and Launch: Non-motorized boating is permitted on the lakes, and a paved boat ramp is available. Rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats are available for rent in-season.
• Swimming Beaches: The campground maintains two designated swimming beaches, one on North Lake and one on South Lake, which are generally supervised by lifeguards during the summer season (Memorial Day to Labor Day).
• Trailer Dump Station & Firewood Sales: A sanitary dump station is provided for trailers and RVs. Firewood is available for purchase on-site, ensuring campers can easily maintain their campfires within the provided fire rings.
• Picnic Areas and Pavilions: Two large, dedicated picnic areas, complete with tables and grills, are available for day users and large group gatherings, with some pavilions offering electricity for special events.
• Recreational Amenities: The campground also features a playground, horseshoe pits, and a volleyball net, offering additional recreational options outside of the primary water and hiking activities.

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## Features / Highlights

What makes North and South Lake Campground a perennial favorite for New York campers are its truly spectacular natural and historical features:

• Unrivaled Hiking Access: The campground offers direct access to a vast network of trails, including the famous Escarpment Trail. These trails lead directly from the loops to must-see spots like Artist's Rock, Sunset Rock, Newman's Ledge, and the historically significant site of the Catskill Mountain House.
• Proximity to Kaaterskill Falls: A highlight for many is the convenient trail access to Kaaterskill Falls, New York's highest waterfall, allowing campers to visit this breathtaking natural wonder without having to battle for roadside parking.
• Twin Lakes for Water Activities: The presence of both North Lake and South Lake provides ample opportunity for swimming, fishing (chain pickerel, largemouth bass, etc.), and peaceful paddling in a stunning mountain setting where motorized boats are prohibited, ensuring a tranquil experience.
• Scenic Vistas: The campground is renowned for its incredible overlooks. From the Catskill Mountain House site, it is famously said that one can see up to five different states on a clear day, offering a reward for even the shortest hikes.
• Historical Significance: The area is steeped in history, serving as the muse for the Hudson River School artists and the backdrop for grand hotels. Exploring the ruins and historical markers adds a layer of cultural depth to the natural adventure.

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## Contact Information

For New Yorkers planning their visit to the Catskill Forest Preserve, it is essential to contact the facility directly for the most current operating schedules, conditions, and reservation information, especially regarding specific sites like Loop #6, Campsite #166, which must be booked through the state's official reservation system.

Address: N Lake Rd, Palenville, NY 12436, USA (Note that some GPS systems may use Haines Falls, NY 12436)

Phone Number: The general in-season phone number for the North-South Lake Campground office, managed by the NYSDEC, is typically (518) 589-5058.

Reservation Information: Campsites, including Loop #6, Campsite #166, are highly sought after and must be reserved in advance, typically through the New York State Parks reservation service (Reserve America).

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## What is Worth Choosing

Choosing North and South Lake Campground is choosing to access the heart of the Catskills’ natural and historical treasures. It is arguably the most popular state campground in the entire Catskill Forest Preserve for a reason.

It is worth choosing because it provides the ultimate blend of wilderness immersion and convenient amenities. You are situated directly at the trailhead of world-class hiking that leads to stunning 5-state views and the majestic Kaaterskill Falls. The campground’s comprehensive facilities, including clean hot showers and boat rentals on the twin lakes, ensure your focus remains on enjoyment and exploration rather than basic logistics.

For New York residents, this destination offers an essential escape, delivering breathtaking natural beauty that feels remote and wild, yet is professionally managed by the NYSDEC and easily reachable. Whether you are an avid hiker targeting the Escarpment Trail or a family looking for a relaxing weekend of swimming and campfires, North and South Lake provides the definitive New York camping experience.

North and south lakes Campground, Loop #6, Campsite #166

N Lake Rd, Palenville, NY 12436, USA