RV camping options near Allendale, New Jersey offer access to both urban attractions and natural scenery. Located in the northeastern part of the state, this area sits at elevations ranging from 300 to 800 feet above sea level within the Ramapo Mountains. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, while summer visitors should plan for humidity and temperatures averaging 75-85°F between June and August.
What to do
Water recreation at Harriman State Park: Beaver Pond Campground offers swimming access at Welch Lake, which features a lifeguard-monitored beach during summer months. One camper noted, "A stones throw from NYC this beautiful area combines Lake Welch and Harriman State Park. This camp ground is laid back away from the busy activity of the big city. If you want to get away and relax you can come here to walk, swim and camp."
Hiking opportunities: Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground connects to numerous trails directly from the camping area. A reviewer mentioned, "There are plenty of nice hikes directly from the campground. The bathrooms and showers were also pretty clean too. Lots of water spickets throughout the ground."
Farm animal interaction: Families can interact with farm animals at Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort in Sussex. One camper shared, "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool." Another mentioned, "Important to not miss: the amazingly beautiful miniature horse that wonders around its huge pin located in the middle of the campground."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park receives positive feedback for its layout. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained," a visitor explained.
Easy access to New York City: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides convenient transportation options to Manhattan. One reviewer shared, "This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless."
Seasonal appeal: Fall camping near Allendale offers scenic foliage views. A Clarence Fahnestock visitor wrote, "We make a habit of going during the end-of-summer/fall when you can watch the leaves change along the hiking trails, go apple and pumpkin picking near the campsites, and eat some scrumptious apple cinnamon doughnuts and drink pumpkin hot chocolate."
What you should know
Cellular connectivity: AT&T users report 3-4 bars at Clarence Fahnestock State Park, making it reliable for remote work needs. Contrary to the variable reception noted at other campgrounds, one visitor shared: "My partner and I spent July 4th weekend here this year. Overall we had an amazing time...They were clean, it was very quiet, and there were a lot of nice hikes directly from the campground."
Site availability trends: Black Bear RV Park in Florida, NY accepts campers year-round. A camper noted, "Have stayed here several times - great location and nice, full hook-up sites. Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs. A little expensive but everything is included."
Water availability varies: Some campgrounds shut off water during winter months. A visitor at Black Bear reported, "Unfortunately at this site, the heated water pipe was broken so we had no water for the night. I could have kept trying to get ahold of someone, but we were tired and it really wasn't worth it for our short amount of time."
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: Bear activity occurs throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. A Beaver Pond visitor advised, "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping. Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby."
Playground access: Mountain Top RV Park offers recreational facilities for children. As one visitor described, "They have a small playground, a mini golf, and a large dog walk. The newly upgraded camp infrastructure elevated the stay, providing amenities for comfort and entertainment. The family-friendly atmosphere was evident through the thoughtfully designed property, including an updated pool, playground, game room, and a brand-new pickleball court."
Off-season swimming: Some campgrounds maintain beach access for campers after public closure. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful," reported a Clarence Fahnestock visitor.
Tips from RVers
Urban RV camping considerations: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides water and electric hookups, but limited amenities. One RVer explained, "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze."
Overnight transit options: Tri-State RV Park in Matamoras, PA serves as a convenient stopover for those traveling through the region. "Located just off the highway so lots of vehicle noise 24/7. Sites are on a gravel lot. Restrooms are clean. Not much else to say about this CG, is just a parking lot with hookups," noted one reviewer.
Site spacing considerations: Several RV parks near Allendale arrange sites closely together. A Liberty Harbor visitor explained, "Basically a parking lot, but the location can't be beat. 2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you to Manhattan. Jersey city has a lot of restaurants and bars walking distance."
