Public Campground
12 Mile (Horsey Hilton) Camping Area
Gaines, New York
camping area, 4 numbered site, mostly ATV users now
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Bear Spring Mountain - Launt Pond
37 tent/trailer sites; picnic areas, grills, playground, horseshoes; volleyball, pavilion, rowboat, canoe, and kayak rentals; firewood sales; trailer dump station; boat launch; sand beach. Only open May 16 to September 1!
Bear Spring Mountain - Launt Pond offers a serene escape into the natural beauty of the Catskill region in upstate New York. Nestled in the charming town of Downsville, this public campground provides the perfect basecamp for travelers seeking authentic outdoor experiences without venturing too far from civilization's conveniences.
The campground's location along East Trout Brook Road positions it ideally for those who love water-based recreation and forest exploration. The surrounding landscape features the rolling hills and mountain vistas that make the Catskills a destination cherished by nature lovers across the Northeast. Whether you're an early riser who wants to catch the morning mist rising off the water or an evening wanderer exploring forest trails as the sun sets, this area delivers the kind of peaceful atmosphere that makes RV camping restorative.
Downsville itself is a gateway community with genuine small-town character. The Delaware River runs nearby, making this area exceptional for fly fishing, kayaking, and other water sports. The region has cultivated a reputation among outdoor enthusiasts, and the campground's proximity to these natural features makes it an excellent choice for active travelers. Hiking opportunities abound in the surrounding mountains, with trails ranging from leisurely walks to more challenging summit climbs.
The broader Catskills region attracts visitors year-round. Spring brings wildflower blooms and rushing streams fed by snowmelt. Summer offers pleasant temperatures perfect for outdoor activities. Fall transforms the landscape with spectacular foliage that draws visitors from across the country. Even winter has its appeal for those who enjoy quieter seasons and occasional snow-covered scenery.
This area works wonderfully for families seeking outdoor adventures, couples looking for peaceful getaways, and solo travelers wanting to reconnect with nature. Retirees enjoy the slower pace and natural beauty, while outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the access to fishing, hiking, and water recreation. The 4.4-star rating from nearly 100 visitors reflects the genuine appeal this campground holds for diverse travelers. It's the kind of place where you can truly unplug and experience the authentic character of upstate New York's natural landscape.
The campground's location along East Trout Brook Road positions it ideally for those who love water-based recreation and forest exploration. The surrounding landscape features the rolling hills and mountain vistas that make the Catskills a destination cherished by nature lovers across the Northeast. Whether you're an early riser who wants to catch the morning mist rising off the water or an evening wanderer exploring forest trails as the sun sets, this area delivers the kind of peaceful atmosphere that makes RV camping restorative.
Downsville itself is a gateway community with genuine small-town character. The Delaware River runs nearby, making this area exceptional for fly fishing, kayaking, and other water sports. The region has cultivated a reputation among outdoor enthusiasts, and the campground's proximity to these natural features makes it an excellent choice for active travelers. Hiking opportunities abound in the surrounding mountains, with trails ranging from leisurely walks to more challenging summit climbs.
The broader Catskills region attracts visitors year-round. Spring brings wildflower blooms and rushing streams fed by snowmelt. Summer offers pleasant temperatures perfect for outdoor activities. Fall transforms the landscape with spectacular foliage that draws visitors from across the country. Even winter has its appeal for those who enjoy quieter seasons and occasional snow-covered scenery.
This area works wonderfully for families seeking outdoor adventures, couples looking for peaceful getaways, and solo travelers wanting to reconnect with nature. Retirees enjoy the slower pace and natural beauty, while outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the access to fishing, hiking, and water recreation. The 4.4-star rating from nearly 100 visitors reflects the genuine appeal this campground holds for diverse travelers. It's the kind of place where you can truly unplug and experience the authentic character of upstate New York's natural landscape.
4.4
Rating
94
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Downsville is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
New York weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Downsville.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Downsville. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Bear Spring Mountain - Launt Pond Reviews
Sign in to Review
G
Kirstin Connor
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Kirstin Connor
What a great camping experience, definitely one of the best (if not the best) camping grounds in the Catskills region. You can really tell how hard the 3 employees that run the entire campground work. Larry, Jim and Mike show so much care for these grounds and make it their goal for everyone to leave with a positive experience. Extremely clean campground with bathrooms that are cleaned daily, free... What a great camping experience, definitely one of the best (if not the best) camping grounds in the Catskills region. You can really tell how hard the 3 employees that run the entire campground work. Larry, Jim and Mike show so much care for these grounds and make it their goal for everyone to leave with a positive experience. Extremely clean campground with bathrooms that are cleaned daily, free showers that are also cleaned daily, beautiful and unique campsites that are well maintained and have many trees in between each making your camping experience private and full of nothing but the beauty of nature. Clean fire pits that are suitable to cook all of your food on, picnic tables at each site to sit at/ eat on and a lot of beautiful wildlife within the perimeters of the campground/ park and beyond. This particular campsite offers more than just camping, with several hiking trails around the park, horseback trails, a pond to swim/ kayak in and more. Overall a great experience and we can’t wait to come back.
G
Sarah E
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Sarah E
Absolutely gorgeous spot. Not much privacy with sites 28-40 but less crowded on weekdays. Beautiful trails and very well maintained.
G
Katerin Lopez
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Katerin Lopez
I loved the experience of camping on Bear Mountain, the tranquility and silence that you breathe there is inexplicable. If you are a quiet person who does not want to hear noise, you just want to enjoy and connect with nature, that is the best place. The person who works in front and care, I think the entire camp is too kind and polite. I will definitely drive four hours again to get there. I love... I loved the experience of camping on Bear Mountain, the tranquility and silence that you breathe there is inexplicable. If you are a quiet person who does not want to hear noise, you just want to enjoy and connect with nature, that is the best place. The person who works in front and care, I think the entire camp is too kind and polite. I will definitely drive four hours again to get there. I loved it.🏕️🏕️🏕️🏕️
G
olena n
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by olena n
Campground is pretty big, but the lake itself - not much. Although we had a chance to take some beautiful fall pictures and some sports along the lake allow you to photograph great scenic views. There is also a trail around this lake.
G
Colleen Kimble
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Colleen Kimble
Nice campground, staff (Nick) super helpful. Only 1 shower house in main campground, which was uphill from sites 1- 10. Firewood is available for sale at the camp office, no ice tho. If you need anything, the Valero/Big M in Walton has it, and only 4 miles away. There is fishing and boat rentals on Launt pond, along with a small swimming beach.
Own or manage Bear Spring Mountain - Launt Pond?
Claim this listing for free to update info, respond to reviews, add real photos, and start accepting online bookings.
Nearby Parks
Bear Spring Mountain - Spruce Grove
Downsville, NY
3.2 miles away
Miller Hollow Campgrounds
Downsville, NY
8.9 miles away
Butternut Grove Campsites
Downsville, NY
11.5 miles away
Russell Brook Campsites
Downsville, NY
11.6 miles away
Kingswood Campsite
Hancock, NY
11.7 miles away
Camp L'man Achai
Margaretville, NY
13.8 miles away