Campsite #57, Palenville, NY

Introduction / Overview: Campsite #57 in the Catskills' Most Popular Campground

Nestled deep within the vast and stunning Catskill Forest Preserve lies North/South Lake Campground, the largest and most sought-after state-operated camping area in the region. This magnificent destination, managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), is where history, nature, and recreation beautifully converge. The provided location, Campsite #57, is situated in Loop 3 of this expansive campground, placing you right in the heart of a quintessential New York mountain escape.

North/South Lake Campground is renowned for offering much more than a simple place to pitch a tent. It is a dual-lake sanctuary featuring two designated swimming beaches, non-motorized boating access, and a dense network of hiking trails that lead to some of the most spectacular, historic vistas in the Northeast. This is the place made famous by the Hudson River School painters, a destination that has captured the imagination of travelers for nearly two centuries. The campground is well-structured, featuring seven distinct loops and over 200 sites, accommodating both tent campers and those with trailers and small RVs. Campsite #57, like others in the area, offers a private, wooded setting with easy access to the modern comforts provided by the DEC facilities. The commitment to maintaining a clean, well-managed environment ensures a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for all local users seeking a break from the urban bustle.

Location and Accessibility: Loop 3, Palenville, NY – The Gateway to Adventure

The North/South Lake Campground complex is situated high on the Catskill Escarpment, offering a commanding view of the Hudson Valley. While the physical address pinpoints a specific spot within the park, the overall location offers prime accessibility for New Yorkers looking for a convenient, yet dramatic, mountain getaway.

Campsite Information: Campsite #57, Loop 3

Address: Loop 3, Palenville, NY 12463, USA

Accessibility is a key advantage for residents of New York State. The campground is located approximately two-and-a-half hours north of New York City by car. Travelers typically use the New York State Thruway (I-87), taking Exit 20 (Saugerties) or Exit 21 (Catskill), and following scenic routes like NY-23A up to Haines Falls, before taking the final turn onto the mountain road leading to the campground entrance. This proximity allows for easy weekend trips, making it an excellent choice for individuals, couples, and families who need a fast, deep immersion in nature. The Loop 3 location places your basecamp centrally within the sprawling facility, typically offering a quieter, more wooded environment while still being a manageable walk or short drive to the main day-use areas.

Services Offered (DEC Campground Standards)

The New York State DEC ensures a comfortable camping experience by maintaining a comprehensive set of facilities at North/South Lake. These amenities enhance the enjoyment of the natural surroundings without compromising the rustic charm of the Catskills.

Campsite Equipment: Each of the 219 tent and trailer sites is equipped with a sturdy picnic table, a fire ring, and a cooking grate.
Comfort Stations: Conveniently located restrooms featuring flush toilets and hot showers are available across multiple loops, including five dedicated shower buildings (one of which is located in Loop 3).
Water Access: Centralized drinking water taps are available throughout the camping loops.
Vehicle Services: A dedicated trailer dump station and a recycling center are available on-site for the convenience of RV and trailer campers.
Campfire Supplies: Firewood is sold directly at the campground office. Campers are reminded to purchase wood locally to prevent the spread of invasive species, and all fires must remain within the provided fireplaces.
Reservations and Check-In: The campground adheres to strict check-in (2 p.m. to 9 p.m.) and check-out (11 a.m.) times, with all reservations managed through the state’s online and phone system (ReserveAmerica).
Pet-Friendly Policy: Leashed pets are welcome in the camping areas, provided they have proof of a valid rabies vaccination and are not left unattended.

Features / Highlights (Historic Vistas and Iconic Waterfalls)

North/South Lake Campground's true distinction lies in its recreational and historical features, making it a powerful magnet for local adventurers.

Kaaterskill Falls: The campground serves as a primary access point to the spectacular Kaaterskill Falls, New York State’s tallest two-tiered waterfall, reached via a dedicated trail network.
Historic Escarpment Trail: Direct access to the legendary Escarpment Trail allows hikers to explore sites of immense historical and natural value, including the short walk to the former site of the Catskill Mountain House, which offers arguably the region's best panoramic overlooks.
Twin Lake Recreation: The campground is centered around North Lake and South Lake, which feature two separate, designated sandy swimming beaches monitored by lifeguards during the summer season (Memorial Day to Labor Day, subject to staff availability).
Paddling and Fishing: Non-motorized boating is permitted on both lakes. Rowboat, kayak, canoe, and paddleboat rentals are available on-site. The lakes are stocked with various fish species, including largemouth bass, providing excellent fishing opportunities.
Family Activity Areas: The facility includes a large playground, playing fields, volleyball, and horseshoe courts, ensuring diverse entertainment for families and groups.
Nature Programming: The campground often offers a Junior Naturalist Program, encouraging younger campers to engage with environmental education and earn a patch.

Contact Information (Booking and General Inquiries)

As a highly popular New York State DEC facility, reservations are essential and can be made up to nine months in advance through the official state reservation system. Do not call the individual campground for booking a site.

Campsite Location: Loop 3, Palenville, NY 12463, USA

General Campground Office Phone (For on-site inquiries, not reservations): (518) 589-5058

Official DEC Bureau of Recreation (General Information): (518) 457-2500

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For anyone living in the greater New York region, the North/South Lake Campground is perfectly positioned to deliver a high-impact natural retreat without requiring extensive travel time. It represents the quintessential Catskills experience, making it an ideal choice for a multi-day family vacation or a quick, restorative weekend away. The ease of accessibility from major metropolitan areas, combined with the comprehensive set of amenities—such as hot showers, clean facilities, and on-site rentals—offers the rugged adventure of wilderness camping with the comforts that make a trip manageable and enjoyable for all ages.

The site's main selling point is the direct access it provides to the most important natural and historical landmarks of the Catskills. Locals can leave their homes in the morning and be swimming at a beautiful mountain lake beach or hiking to a stunning five-state view by the early afternoon. Campsite #57 in Loop 3 specifically places you in a desirable, heavily wooded section, allowing for privacy and quiet contemplation while still being integrated into the energetic outdoor community of the campground. For New Yorkers looking to trade city noise for the sound of wind in the pines, and asphalt views for legendary mountain panoramas, North/South Lake Campground offers a reliable, factually stunning, and professionally maintained option.