Camping options near Alpine, New Jersey range from rustic tent sites to yurt accommodations within short driving distance. The region sits at the northern edge of the Palisades, where elevation ranges from 400-900 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with cooler nights around 60-65°F, while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking diverse trails: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers extensive hiking opportunities through wooded terrain. "Large, wooded campsites with electric and water. It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities," notes Jeff W. The park connects to multiple trail systems within the New Jersey Skylands region.
Water activities: Great Divide Campground provides lake access with complimentary watercraft. "Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool," writes Jojo P. The small lake includes boat rentals and a beach area for swimming during summer months when water temperatures reach the mid-70s.
Wildlife viewing: Stokes State Forest campers should prepare for natural encounters in preserved woodland settings. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," cautions one visitor. The forest encompasses 21 marked trails covering over 63 miles, including 12 miles of the Appalachian Trail.
What campers like
Lake views: High Point State Park Campground offers waterfront sites with elevated platforms for tents. "Camping right along the lake was nice, small trail to walk around river and trails to hike into the mt," explains Christine N. The park includes multiple water features with designated fishing areas.
Secluded sites: At Mountain Lakes Park, campers appreciate the isolation from urban areas. "A gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County. A dirt road loops through the property with trails off and through it," describes Ben H. The park provides yurt camping options near Alpine, New Jersey, approximately 30 minutes from downtown.
Clean facilities: West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area maintains well-kept amenities. "Bath houses are absolutely spotless. Fire pits, electric and water hook ups only," states Mindie C. The recreation area restricts access to military personnel and veterans, with regular maintenance schedules for facilities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance bookings, particularly for specialized accommodations like yurts near Alpine. During peak season (June-August), reservations should be made 2-3 months ahead.
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage at most locations. "We had a great time. Only issue was a skunk that visited our campsite multiple times in one night. Was not afraid of humans," reports Colleen C. from Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Site conditions: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds, affecting setup ease and comfort. "The gravel driveway is on a 30-40 degree incline. The tent was too long for the 12'x10' platform, so we had to set it up on the flattest part and hope not to roll down the hill in the night," explains one camper at High Point State Park.
Weather planning: The region experiences rapid weather changes, particularly in spring and fall. Temperatures can fluctuate 20-30 degrees in 24 hours, requiring layered clothing and rain gear year-round.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate activities: Campgrounds offer varying levels of structured programming for children. "Fun camping place to books groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub," mentions Cynthia H. about Panther Lake.
Site selection: When camping with children, consider proximity to bathrooms and noise levels. Sites near lakes may have more mosquitoes but provide easier access to swimming.
Meal planning: Most sites include fire rings with cooking grates, but bring a portable stove as backup during fire restrictions. Store food securely to prevent wildlife encounters.
Safety considerations: Review specific campground rules regarding swimming areas and trail difficulty ratings. Many locations require children under 12 to wear life jackets during water activities.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Verify length restrictions before booking as many campgrounds have limited large rig access. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill," reports Nancymike K. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary significantly between campgrounds. "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," explains a reviewer.
Leveling challenges: Many sites in the region require significant leveling due to terrain. "The sites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station," notes Jeff W.
Seasonal access: Most RV sites close during winter months (November-March) due to freezing temperatures affecting water systems. Roads leading to campgrounds may have low clearance areas or weight restrictions.
