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

For residents of New York looking for the quintessential mountain escape, North-South Lake Campground stands as the premier destination within the Catskill Forest Preserve. Renowned as the largest and most popular state-run campground in the region, it offers an unparalleled blend of natural splendor and historical significance. While the entire park spans over 1,100 acres, experienced local campers often seek out specific locations to maximize their experience. Loop #6, specifically Campsite #166, is a highly coveted spot that places visitors in the heart of the North Lake area. This site provides an ideal balance of wooded privacy and convenient access to the park’s most famous landmarks, making it a perfect choice for those who want to experience the "Grand Hotel" era's scenery from a modern, rugged perspective.

The allure of North-South Lake lies in its unique geography. Originally two separate lakes, the area was modified to create one expansive body of water that serves as the centerpiece for summer recreation. Campsite #166 in Loop 6 is situated on an elevated plain that characterizes the eastern edge of the Catskill Escarpment. From this vantage point, the "Blue Mountains" reveal their full glory, offering cool breezes and the distinct scent of balsam and pine. For New Yorkers, this campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it is a portal to the history of the Hudson River School of painters and the site of the legendary Catskill Mountain House, once the most famous resort in America.

Location and Accessibility are two of the strongest attributes of this Palenville-based retreat. Located at N Lake Rd, Palenville, NY 12436, the campground is approximately a two-and-a-half-hour drive from New York City, making it accessible for a long weekend or a week-long summer residency. To reach Loop 6 and Site #166, campers follow the scenic winding roads of Route 23A or Route 18 through Haines Falls. The campground entrance is well-marked, and the internal road system is paved and manageable for most vehicles. Site #166 specifically features a driveway length of 30 feet, accommodating most standard SUVs, vans, or small trailers. The site is designed to be accessible and easy to navigate, with clear markings and level ground for tent placement.

Services Offered at North-South Lake are designed to provide a comfortable "car camping" experience that appeals to both seasoned woodsmen and first-time campers. While the park maintains a rustic feel, it provides several essential services to ensure guest comfort. These include:

• Professional On-Site Management: Staffed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), the campground offers a formal check-in process and regular patrols for safety.
• Sanitation and Hygiene: Loop 6 features a modern shower building and restrooms with flushing toilets, which are kept exceptionally clean by the facility staff.
• Firewood and Supplies: To prevent the spread of invasive species, the campground offers on-site firewood sales, ensuring you have safe fuel for your evening campfire.
• Boat Rentals: Located near the North Lake beach area, guests can rent canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and stand-up paddleboards to explore the twin lakes.
• Junior Naturalist Program: An educational service for children that allows them to earn a patch by completing environmental modules during their stay.
• Recycling and Waste Disposal: Conveniently located recycling centers and a trailer dump station help maintain the pristine nature of the forest preserve.

Features and Highlights of Loop #6 and the surrounding North-South Lake area are truly world-class. Staying at Site #166 puts you within walking distance of some of the most spectacular views in the Eastern United States. Highlights include:

• The Catskill Mountain House Site: A short, easy walk from Loop 6 leads to the historic overlook where five states are visible on a clear day.
• Proximity to Waterfalls: The famous Kaaterskill Falls—New York’s highest two-tiered waterfall—is located just outside the campground boundaries, with nearby trail access.
• Mary’s Glen Trail: A favorite for families, this trail leads to the beautiful Ashley Falls and is easily reachable from the North Lake loops.
• Two Swimming Beaches: Guests have access to both North and South Lake beaches, featuring sandy shorelines and designated swimming areas.
• Escarpment Trail Access: For serious hikers, the site provides immediate access to miles of rugged trails, including Artist’s Rock, Sunset Rock, and Newman’s Ledge.
• Kid-Friendly Atmosphere: The loop features paved roads perfect for children to ride bikes, and a nearby playground provides a centralized spot for younger campers to socialize.
• Abundant Wildlife: The area is teeming with white-tailed deer, ruffed grouse, and the occasional black bear, providing a true nature-watching experience.

Contact Information for the facility is essential, as North-South Lake is notoriously popular and often books up months in advance during the peak summer season:Address: N Lake Rd, Palenville, NY 12436, USAPhone (Project Office): (518) 589-5058Reservations are primarily handled through the New York State Parks reservation system. When booking, specifically look for "North-South Lake Campground" and filter by "Loop 6" to locate Site #166. Note that check-in is strictly after 2:00 PM and quiet hours are enforced starting at 10:00 PM.

What is worth choosing about this particular campground and site is the sheer density of "must-see" New York landmarks located within a one-mile radius. While other campgrounds require a drive to reach a trailhead, choosing Loop 6 means your car can stay parked while you hike to world-famous overlooks and waterfalls. Site #166 is particularly worth choosing because it provides a level, shaded area that stays cool even in the heat of July. It is a perfect choice for families because it is situated close enough to the bathhouse for convenience but far enough away to avoid excessive foot traffic. Furthermore, the ability to launch a canoe in the morning and be back at your site for lunch makes it an efficient and relaxing choice for those who want to experience the best of the Catskills without the stress of complex logistics. Whether you are coming for the legendary sunsets at Sunset Rock or the family-friendly Junior Naturalist program, North-South Lake delivers a premium outdoor experience that captures the heart of New York’s wilderness.