Bear Spring Mountain
00 review512 East Trout Brook Rd, Downsville, New York, 13755, United States
Bear Spring Mountain
$25.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range between $25 and $35 depending on the campsite type and season.
About this campground
Escape to Bear Spring Mountain, where rustic wilderness camping meets untamed natural beauty. This secluded haven beckons adventurers seeking authentic outdoor experiences far from the hustle of modern life. Whether you're pitching a tent under towering trees or settling in with your trailer, you'll find yourself immersed in pristine wilderness. Gather around crackling fire pits as evening falls, explore winding multi-use trails that reveal hidden corners of the forest, or spend lazy afternoons on the sandy beach. Equestrian enthusiasts will discover a true paradise with 24 dedicated horse tie stalls and miles of scenic riding trails that wind through ancient forests and alongside crystalline streams.
Bear Spring Mountain Campground caters to a variety of campers, including tent and trailer users, as well as equestrians.
Historical SignificanceBear Spring Mountain stands as a living testament to conservation foresight, nestled within the historic Catskill Forest Preserve established in 1885. Born from a visionary commitment to protect precious water resources, this protected landscape has evolved into a cherished sanctuary where generations of families have created lasting memories. Today's visitors walk the same paths and camp beneath the same ancient trees that have sheltered outdoor enthusiasts for over a century.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Bear Spring Mountain in dramatically different hues, but savvy campers know the sweet spots – those magical weeks when moderate temperatures meet crystal-clear skies and the mountain air carries just the right crispness. These perfect windows offer ideal conditions for everything from sunrise hikes to starlit evenings around the campfire, with dry trails that invite exploration and weather that enhances rather than challenges your outdoor adventures.
ElevationPerched among the rolling peaks and valleys of the legendary Catskill Mountains, Bear Spring Mountain offers that perfect mountain camping experience. Here, the elevation creates its own microclimate where cool mountain breezes refresh summer days and the air carries that distinctive clarity that only comes with altitude. The campground's position in these storied mountains provides both shelter and spectacular vantage points for taking in the surrounding wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking tapestry of the Catskill Forest Preserve, where dense canopies of ancient trees create natural cathedrals overhead. The jewel of the area, Launt Pond, mirrors the sky and surrounding forest in its pristine waters, offering photographers and nature lovers endless inspiration – especially during autumn's spectacular color show. Lush trails meander through varied ecosystems, from sun-dappled forest floors carpeted in ferns to rocky outcroppings that offer glimpses of distant peaks. Every turn reveals another postcard-worthy scene in this protected wilderness.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of the Western Catskills, Bear Spring Mountain is part of the greater Catskill Forest Preserve – a geological wonderland established in 1885. This remarkable landscape was shaped by ancient forces that carved deep valleys and sculpted rounded peaks, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor recreation. Originally protected to safeguard vital water resources, these mountains now serve dual purposes: preserving critical watersheds while offering an expansive natural playground for hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking authentic wilderness experiences.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible facilities such as a handicap site (#20) that is level for easy bathroom access. Showers also include handicap-friendly fold-down seats.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some large enough for 9-10 person tents (e.g., site #4) and others better suited for smaller 2-3 person tents (e.g., site #13).
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels at campsites vary greatly. Some sites are secluded and surrounded by trees, while others are directly on the road with minimal privacy (e.g., sites #8 and #9).
Total Campsites41 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose the first loop for better privacy and site quality. Avoid sites near horse stables due to odors. Site #2 offers proximity to amenities.
Best CampsitesSite #20 is a handicap-accessible site near bathrooms. Site #13 accommodates smaller tents, and Site #4 is praised for its spaciousness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
From 2pm until 9pm.
Check-out
10:00 a.m.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 cumulative nights during July 1 through Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limited to 6 individuals per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes loops with varying site sizes and privacy levels. Accessible site #20 is near bathrooms; equestrian sites are located in a separate loop.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, though specific peak and off-peak dates are not noted.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via the official campground contact lines.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome campsites are designated for walk-in availability depending on site conditions.
Cancellation PolicyFees are forfeited if campers fail to register for their sites by 9:00 p.m. on the first night of their reservation.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bear Spring Mountain Campground offers a range of outdoor activities tailored for nature enthusiasts and families. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating. Additional facilities include a playground, horseshoe pits, and volleyball courts.
Hiking
The campground features 24 miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking. User reviews mention a trail around the lake that provides scenic views, especially in the fall.Fishing
Fishing is available at Launt Pond. The fenced-in dock and dam on the pond are popular spots for anglers.Swimming
Swimming is permitted at a small sanded beach by the lake. However, the swimming area is unsupervised, with safeguards outlined in brochures provided at check-in.Biking
The campground's multi-use trails are also suitable for biking.Boating
The campground offers a boat launch and boat rental facilities, including canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats. Life jackets are available for rent.Wildlife viewing
The campground's natural setting is conducive to wildlife viewing, although no specific species are mentioned.Beach activities
Beach-related activities are centered around the sanded beach at Launt Pond, which includes picnic tables, grills, and a small floating dock.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing is listed as a potential winter activity, though detailed descriptions are unavailable.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be built in designated fireplaces using dead and down wood. Cutting trees and using chainsaws is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are From 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsNo bear problems reported; occasional wildlife such as turkey sightings. Site conditions like rocky ground may pose challenges for tent setup.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Hospital within 10 miles in Walton, NY.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are located behind the check-in cabin. These include two large green dumpsters and three smaller garbage cans for sorting metal and plastic. The setup is critter-proof, and there are no reported issues with bears.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Launt Pond; features a small sand beach and fishing-friendly docks.
Common complaintsComplaints include noise disturbances during quiet hours, small campsite sizes, plumbing issues during busy weekends, and rocky ground.
HostHosts are described as friendly and responsive, with specific mentions of Nick and Liza.
Campground Map
512 East Trout Brook Rd, Downsville, New York, 13755, United States
Driving directionsBear Spring Mountain is located in the western Catskills, 5 miles south of Walton, New York. From the south, take Route 17 west to exit 90 (East Branch), take Route 30 north to Shinhopple, turn left on East Trout Brook Road for 4-5 miles; the campground is on the right. (Launt Pond loop is 7 miles from Route 30).
The campground is accessible via paved routes including Route 17 and Route 30. Seasonal closures or challenging terrains have not been explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Walton, NY - 5 miles
Nearby supplies
Valero/Big M in Walton, NY approximately 4 miles away for essentials such as groceries and firewood.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Bear Spring Mountain has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Bear Spring Mountain Campground present a mixed picture. Positive aspects include friendly staff, well-maintained sites, and clean facilities. However, common complaints revolve around noise during quiet hours, limited shower facilities, and the remoteness of some amenities.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Campground is praised for its natural beauty, clean facilities, spacious showers, and friendly staff. Many reviewers found the campground to be relaxing and appreciated the presence of picnic tables,...
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Common Concerns
Some users reported issues with noise during quiet hours, maintenance problems with restrooms, and long distances to showers from certain sites. A lack of cell service and small campsite sizes were...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Camping in the first loop is recommended for better access to amenities. Larger groups should consider early reservations to secure spacious sites. Carry proof of negative rabies vaccinations for...
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Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular in summer and fall, with busy weekends leading to crowded facilities. Fall is noted for scenic views, while winter offers activities like cross-country skiing.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Showers were spacious, free, and always had hot water.' (Deanna Calvacca) 2. 'The campground is very clean, and the staff is friendly and helpful.' (Renee Sala) 3. 'Cell service is spotty, which...
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Site-Specific Reviews
1. Site #4 is large and private, suitable for big groups. 2. Sites #8 and #9 lack privacy but are convenient for pull-through access. 3. Site #20 is handicap-accessible and level, close to bathrooms.
Accessibility Features
Showers and site #20 are highlighted for accessibility. The handicap ramps and fold-down seats in showers are specifically appreciated.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed with proof of vaccination. Leashes are required, and pets cannot be left unattended or brought into facility structures.
Last updated August 10, 2025