North-South Lake Campground

North-South Lake Campground Review

In the Catskill Forest Preserve, the facility has a recreational program (July 4 through Labor Day) that keeps the kids engaged in the natural world. North-South Lake has sand beaches, and you can swim in the brisk water from late May through Labor Day, when lifeguards are on duty. If the water's too cold—the lakes are 2,000 feet above sea level—rent a boat and go fishing (with a license) for bass, perch, or catfish, or hit the surrounding trails on a mountain bike or on foot. From here it's a short hike to the site of the old Catskill Mountain House. The campground is 3 mi northeast of Haines Falls. Reservations are essential for summer weekends. Day-trippers pay $6 entry.