North/South Lake Campground - Campsite #145

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For New Yorkers yearning for a classic outdoor adventure amidst breathtaking scenery, North/South Lake Campground in Palenville, NY, stands as an iconic destination. As the largest and most popular state campground within the Catskill Forest Preserve, it offers an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and a deep connection to the rich history of the Catskills. It's more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a vibrant hub for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to truly immerse themselves in the majestic landscapes that inspired the Hudson River School artists.

North/South Lake Campground is renowned for its twin lakes, North Lake and South Lake, which serve as the focal point for many of the campground's activities. Surrounded by heavily wooded campsites, the area offers a sense of tranquility and a refreshing escape from the urban environment. Visitors consistently praise the campground for its cleanliness, the helpfulness of its employees, and the sheer value of spending time in such a stunning natural space. Whether you're planning a multi-day camping trip or simply seeking a day of outdoor fun, North/South Lake provides a pristine and engaging environment for all ages.

From serene lakeside relaxation to challenging mountain hikes with panoramic views, this campground caters to a wide array of interests. It represents the quintessential Catskills experience, making it a beloved spot for generations of New York families and outdoor adventurers. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its exceptional natural setting and the well-maintained facilities provided by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).

North/South Lake Campground is nestled at Loop 5, Palenville, NY 12463, USA, strategically positioned at the eastern edge of the Catskill Escarpment. This prime location in Greene County offers unparalleled access to some of the most spectacular natural features in the Catskills. For New Yorkers, the journey to the campground is remarkably convenient, typically a manageable drive of under three hours from New York City and its surrounding metropolitan areas. This accessibility makes it an ideal destination for weekend getaways or longer vacations without extensive travel.

The campground is well-signposted and accessible via paved roads, making it easy to navigate for both cars and RVs. Upon arrival, the internal roads within the campground are also paved, simplifying movement between loops and facilities. Despite its popularity, the campground's expansive layout and the dense forest cover provide a sense of seclusion and connection with nature. Its proximity to Route 23A also offers convenient access to nearby towns like Palenville and Haines Falls, where visitors can find local shops, restaurants, and additional services. The location acts as a gateway to iconic Catskills landmarks, including the trailheads for Kaaterskill Falls and the historic sites of the Catskill Mountain House, making it a perfect base for exploration. This blend of easy access and deep immersion in the wilderness is a key reason for its appeal among New York locals seeking a genuine outdoor experience.

North/South Lake Campground, as a New York State DEC facility, provides a robust array of services designed to ensure a comfortable and comprehensive camping experience for its visitors. With 7 camping loops and 219 tent and trailer sites, the campground is well-equipped to host a large number of campers.

• Campsites: Offers a variety of tent and trailer sites, including "Family Sites" which are larger and can accommodate up to 12 people, four vehicles, and multiple tents or hard-wheeled equipment. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fireplace/fire ring.
• Restrooms with Hot Showers: Clean and well-maintained restroom facilities with hot showers are available in loops 1, 3, 4, 6, and 7, ensuring comfort for campers.
• Drinking Water: Accessible drinking water is available throughout the campground.
• Trailer Dump Station: An on-site facility for RV waste disposal.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase at the campground, adhering to regulations about using local wood to prevent pest spread.
• Boat Rentals: Rowboats, kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and paddle boats are available for rent on North Lake.
• Boat Launch: A paved boat ramp is located at the North Lake day-use area for those bringing their own non-motorized boats.
• Picnic Areas and Pavilions: Two dedicated picnic areas, one on North Lake and one on South Lake, offering tables and rentable pavilions, some with electricity.
• Camp Store: A small store is located near the entrance for necessities, including ice cream.
• Recycling Center: Facilities available for recycling.

North/South Lake Campground boasts an impressive array of features and highlights that make it a standout destination for outdoor recreation in the Catskills, offering activities and sights for every type of visitor.

• Two Beautiful Lakes (North Lake & South Lake): These pristine lakes are central to the campground’s appeal, offering opportunities for swimming, boating (non-motorized only), and fishing.
• Designated Swimming Beaches: Two supervised beaches provide safe and enjoyable swimming areas for cooling off during warm summer days.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: The campground provides direct access to a vast network of trails leading to spectacular overlooks (like Artist's Rock, Sunset Rock, Newman's Ledge), historic sites (Catskill Mountain House, Kaaterskill Hotel), and the breathtaking Kaaterskill Falls (accessible via a trail starting on Route 23A).
• Boating & Paddling: Enjoy paddling across the tranquil waters of North and South Lake in rented or personal canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards.
• Freshwater Fishing: Both lakes are stocked with various fish species, including chain pickerel, brown bullhead, pumpkinseed, black crappie, and largemouth bass, offering excellent fishing opportunities.
• Children's Playground: A dedicated play area for younger campers.
• Picnic Areas: Well-equipped picnic spots with tables and fireplaces/charcoal grills for day-use visitors and campers.
• Wildlife Watching: The diverse ecosystems around the lakes and forests provide ample opportunities to observe local wildlife, including white-tailed deer, various bird species, and occasionally black bears (campers are advised to be bear-aware).
• Scenic Vistas: The campground's location at the Catskill Escarpment offers incredible panoramic views, with some overlooks reportedly providing views of up to five states on a clear day.
• Junior Naturalist Program: An environmental education program for younger campers to learn about nature and earn a patch.

As a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) campground, North/South Lake operates under state-set fee structures and programs rather than typical commercial "promotions" or "special offers." However, there are ways for New Yorkers to maximize value and access.

• Empire Pass: For frequent visitors to New York State Parks and DEC campgrounds, purchasing an Empire Pass is a significant value. For an annual fee (currently $80), this pass provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to most DEC forest preserve areas, boat launch sites, arboretums, and state parks. If you plan multiple visits throughout the season, or visit other state facilities, the Empire Pass quickly pays for itself, covering the day-use entrance fee (typically $10).
• Day Pass Options: For those not camping overnight, North/South Lake offers day passes for access to its beaches, picnic areas, and trailheads. A day pass typically costs around $10 per vehicle.
• Senior Citizen and Military/Veteran Discounts: While not a promotional offer in the traditional sense, New York State Parks and DEC campgrounds often offer discounted rates for senior citizens and military personnel/veterans for day-use entry. It is advisable to inquire about these specific discounts upon arrival or when making reservations.

Campsite fees for North/South Lake are standardized at $22.00 per night for New York State residents (with an additional $5.00 fee per night for non-residents). Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season (May through October), and can be made online through ReserveAmerica or by phone. It's always a good idea to check the NYSDEC website or ReserveAmerica for the most current information on fees, policies, and any seasonal announcements.

To plan your visit or make a reservation at North/South Lake Campground, you can use the following information:

Address: Loop 5, Palenville, NY 12463, USA

Phone: While a direct general campground phone number isn't widely published for inquiries, reservations are handled centrally.

For reservations and general information, you should typically use the New York State Parks reservation system:

Online Reservations: Via ReserveAmerica (search for "North-South Lake Campground, NY")

Phone Reservations: 1-800-456-2267

For specific questions about North/South Lake Campground that are not covered by the reservation system, you may try calling the general DEC Bureau of Recreation information line: (518) 457-2500 or email campinfo@dec.ny.gov. Always refer to the official NYSDEC website or ReserveAmerica for the most up-to-date and accurate contact and booking information.

For New Yorkers, North/South Lake Campground truly represents an unparalleled local gem for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Its strategic location in Palenville, within a convenient driving distance from major metropolitan areas, means that a profound escape into nature is easily within reach for a weekend or even a day trip. This accessibility makes it a practical and appealing choice for families, friends, and solo adventurers looking to reconnect with the wilderness without enduring arduous travel.

The suitability for locals extends beyond just convenience. North/South Lake offers a quintessential Catskills experience, rich in history and natural beauty. The dual lakes provide ample opportunities for swimming and non-motorized boating, offering a refreshing respite during warmer months. The extensive network of hiking trails, leading to iconic overlooks and the majestic Kaaterskill Falls, ensures that adventure is always at your doorstep, catering to all levels of hikers from casual strollers to seasoned trekkers. These stunning vistas and the sense of immersion in nature are precisely what many New Yorkers seek to balance their fast-paced urban lives.

Furthermore, the positive customer reviews highlight key aspects that resonate with local users: clean restrooms, helpful employees, and the overall "amazing" quality of the experience. These elements speak to the well-maintained facilities and the dedicated staff who ensure a pleasant visit. Whether you're looking for a campsite to spend several nights under the stars, a day pass for a picnic and a swim, or an opportunity to explore some of New York's most famous natural landmarks, North/South Lake Campground provides a comprehensive and deeply satisfying outdoor experience that is both accessible and immensely rewarding for any New Yorker. It's an investment of time that truly pays dividends in natural beauty and rejuvenation.

North/South Lake Campground - Campsite #145

Loop 5, Palenville, NY 12463, USA