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

Introduction / Overview: Campsite #166 in the Heart of the Catskill Mountains

For generations of New Yorkers, the Catskill Forest Preserve has served as the ultimate backyard escape, and at the heart of this iconic mountain range lies the North/South Lake Campground. Operated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), this destination is more than just a place to stay—it's a world-class recreation area offering an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, historic significance, and modern convenience. Campsite #166, located within the desirable Loop 6, places you right in the middle of this legendary outdoor hub.

North/South Lake Campground is the largest and most popular state campground in the Catskills, boasting over 200 sites spread across seven different loops. Its fame is well-deserved, offering direct access to the region's most magnificent overlooks and the start of the trail system leading to Kaaterskill Falls. The campground is situated on the eastern edge of the Catskill Escarpment, where the land drops dramatically, creating breathtaking vistas that inspired the 19th-century Hudson River School of painters. Your experience at Campsite #166 is characterized by a wooded setting, offering a degree of privacy and the rustic atmosphere of true mountain camping, all while being a stone's throw from the twin lakes that define this magnificent park. This location allows New York residents to easily unplug and connect with the immense wilderness of the Catskills.

Location and Accessibility: Loop 6, Palenville, NY – Prime Lakeside Access

The specific location of your mountain retreat is highly strategic. Campsite #166 is found in Loop 6 of the North/South Lake Campground complex, an area often sought after for its convenient proximity to the North Lake shore. Loop 6 typically features sites that are either directly waterfront or offer a short walk to one of the lakes, enhancing the overall camping experience with easy access to swimming, boating, and fishing.

Campsite Information: Campsite #166, Loop 6

Address: N Lake Rd, Palenville, NY 12436, USA

For local users, the campground's setting in Palenville, NY, makes it a highly practical weekend getaway. Located in Greene County, the drive is easily navigable from major metropolitan areas. From downstate regions, the primary route involves using the New York State Thruway (I-87), typically exiting at Saugerties (Exit 20) or Catskill (Exit 21). The final leg of the drive involves ascending scenic mountain roads, often County Route 18, which leads directly to the campground entrance. While the address uses the Palenville zip code, the immediate surrounding area is Haines Falls. This location's accessibility is a key factor in its popularity, as it allows for a rapid transition from city life to deep wilderness immersion in just a couple of hours.

Services Offered (DEC Standard Amenities)

As a DEC-operated facility, North/South Lake provides all the essential services and amenities needed for a comfortable and secure camping experience. These services are strategically located across the seven loops to ensure easy access for all 219 sites, including those in Loop 6.

Individual Campsite Provisions: Every campsite, including #166, comes equipped with a picnic table, a metal fire ring, and a cooking grate, providing the basics for outdoor dining.
Comfort Stations with Hot Showers: Restrooms featuring modern flush toilets and free hot showers are conveniently located throughout the campground. Loop 6 is one of the designated loops with an accessible shower building nearby.
Water and Waste Facilities: Centralized drinking water taps are provided, and a vehicle dump station for RVs and trailers is available within the park complex.
Firewood Sales: Campers can purchase firewood at the campground office, a crucial service that helps prevent the transport of invasive insects.
Recreational Gear Rentals: Rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboats are available to rent, allowing campers without their own equipment to fully enjoy the lakes.
Safety and Security: The campground is patrolled by staff and adheres to strict quiet hours (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) to ensure a peaceful stay for all visitors.
Pet Policy: Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and are not permitted in the day-use beach areas or facility buildings.

Features / Highlights (Two Lakes and Historic Hiking)

The features of North/South Lake are truly what set it apart, making it a bucket-list destination for any New York outdoor enthusiast.

Dual Lake Access: The campground encompasses two pristine bodies of water, North Lake and South Lake, both of which offer dedicated sandy swimming beaches with lifeguard supervision during the summer season (typically Memorial Day to Labor Day).
Kaaterskill Falls Trailhead: The site is famously the most convenient basecamp for accessing the trail leading to Kaaterskill Falls, New York State’s highest two-tiered waterfall, an absolute must-see for all visitors.
Historic Escarpment Trail: Direct access to the legendary Escarpment Trail allows hikers to visit historic landmarks, including the former site of the Catskill Mountain House, which offers expansive views where it is said five states can be seen on a clear day.
Boating and Fishing: Non-motorized boating is permitted with a launch ramp available. The lakes are popular for fishing, hosting species like largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and panfish.
Family Recreation Areas: The campground features a playground, volleyball, and horseshoe courts, as well as a Junior Naturalist Program during peak season, perfect for engaging children in environmental education.
Scenic Overlooks: Numerous short and long hikes depart directly from the camping loops, leading to famous overlooks such as Artist's Rock, Sunset Rock, and Newman's Ledge, showcasing the area's geological and artistic heritage.

Contact Information (DEC Campground)

All reservations for Campsite #166 and all other sites at the North/South Lake Campground must be made through the official statewide reservation system.

Campsite Location: Loop 6, North and south lakes Campground N Lake Rd, Palenville, NY 12436, USA

DEC Campground Office Phone (For on-site or current season inquiries, not reservations): (518) 589-5058

Official Reservation System Contact: Call ReserveAmerica at 1-800-456-CAMP (1-800-456-2267) or visit the NYSDEC website.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

North/South Lake Campground is custom-made for New York residents seeking a comprehensive, accessible, and high-quality outdoor experience. Its blend of rugged Catskill wilderness and necessary creature comforts (hot showers, flush toilets) ensures that a camping trip here is enjoyable for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts and novice families alike. The ease of the two-hour drive from New York City means less time commuting and more time swimming in the clean mountain lakes, tackling the Escarpment Trail, or sitting around a crackling campfire at Campsite #166. It is an extraordinary opportunity to camp at the historic nexus of New York’s cultural and natural heritage, a true basecamp for adventure in the famed Catskill Forest Preserve. By choosing a specific location like Campsite #166 in the desirable Loop 6, locals are securing their spot at a premier recreational destination where world-class hiking and waterfront fun are guaranteed. This campground isn't just a break from the city; it is an annual tradition for those who know the best of what Upstate New York has to offer.