Best Campgrounds near Bloomingdale, NJ
The Skylands region surrounding Bloomingdale, New Jersey features several established campgrounds within a 30-minute drive, including Mahlon Dickerson Reservation and Camp Glen Gray. These areas provide a mix of camping experiences from developed sites with hookups to more primitive options. Most campgrounds in the region accommodate tent camping, while several also offer cabin rentals and RV sites with electric and water hookups. The forested terrain creates natural buffers between many campsites, with some properties featuring lake or pond access for recreation.
Camping facilities vary significantly across the region, with state parks like Wawayanda offering more rustic experiences compared to private campgrounds with full amenities. "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campground is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large," noted one visitor. Many campgrounds operate seasonally, typically from April through October, though some remain open year-round with limited services during winter months. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays during summer and fall foliage season. The region experiences typical Northeast seasonal patterns with humid summers and cold winters, making spring and fall particularly popular for camping.
Waterfront camping opportunities represent a significant draw throughout the area. Several campgrounds feature lake access, including sites at Wawayanda State Park and Panther Lake Camping Resort. Campers frequently mention the natural beauty and hiking opportunities as highlights of their stays. A visitor to Stokes State Forest commented that it is "nestled in a beautiful part of New Jersey and it's just remote enough that you can get away from the crowds and activity while still being in a short driving distance of restaurants, grocery stores, etc." Wildlife viewing is common, with deer, various bird species, and smaller mammals frequently spotted. Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours and have restrictions on alcohol consumption. Cell service can be spotty in more remote areas, particularly in the valleys between ridges and mountains.
