Camping sites near Chatham, New Jersey range in elevation from 200 to 1,200 feet above sea level, with diverse terrain spanning urban-adjacent properties to mountain wilderness areas. The region has a humid continental climate with warm summers reaching 85°F and cold winters dropping to 20°F. Many campgrounds in the area implement strict bear-aware policies due to the increasing black bear population in northern New Jersey forests.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: At Round Valley State Park Campground, the 2,350-acre reservoir provides crystal clear water for kayaking and canoeing. "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature," notes Ryan M. The reservoir reaches 180 feet deep, making it popular for fishing and swimming during summer months.
Hiking trails: Harriman State Park's Beaver Pond Campground offers access to the Appalachian Trail and multiple historic paths from Revolutionary War times. "Quick 15 minute drive from Beaver Pond, is Bear Mountain State Park. Here you can find some of the Appalachian Trail, with various smaller trail heads for this historic part of the region including the one to Doodle Town," reports Steve W.
Wildlife observation: Black bears are common in the camping areas surrounding Chatham. Beaver Pond Campground has regular wildlife sightings. The park ranger greets visitors with "Welcome to Bear Mountain" and provides information on recent bear activity. The campground requires proper food storage in designated containers.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Great Divide Campground receives praise for its small lake with free watercraft. "Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach. Lots of weekend activities," says Scott N. Campers appreciate that kayaks are provided at no additional cost.
Wooded privacy: Tent sites at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation include 12x12 raised platforms that keep tents dry during wet conditions. "The sites are wooded and large," notes one camper. Another visitor, John S., considers it the "Best. Campground.Ever." adding that "even if the place is packed there is PLENTY of room."
Urban escape options: Camping near Manhattan is possible at Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City. "There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F. There is a great market about 1/4 of a mile away, and the path that can take you to WTC or 33rd Street area is only a mile away," explains Shawn B. Sites offer views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline.
What you should know
Varying noise levels: Not all campgrounds provide a quiet wilderness experience. Cheesequake State Park Campground sits near the Garden State Parkway, with one reviewer noting "the Parkway is right there so it's not a nice quiet place." Similarly, a camper at Beaver Pond described "a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers."
Accessibility challenges: Round Valley's wilderness campsites require significant effort to reach. "It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort! If you get a site on the water, you can take a boat across to your site," explains one visitor. The hiking path is described as "incredibly difficult to manage without hauling all of your camping gear."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close between late October and early April. Cheesequake State Park operates from April 1 to October 31, while Great Divide Campground runs from May 1 to October 14. Winter camping options are extremely limited in the immediate Chatham area.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-rich campgrounds: Panther Lake Camping Resort provides numerous amenities for children. "Lots of activities to keep kids busy which was nice but this place is a party place for sure," notes Julie F. The resort features an arcade room, swimming pool, ceramic classes, and organized weekend activities.
Wildlife considerations: Multiple campgrounds report wildlife encounters that may concern families with small children. One visitor to Panther Lake mentioned "a skunk that visited our campsite multiple times in one night. Was not afraid of humans." At Beaver Pond, campers are warned to secure food properly due to bears.
Terrain challenges: Many campgrounds have significant elevation changes. At Great Divide Campground, one visitor cautions: "Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down." Similarly, Mahlon Dickerson has hilltop sites that are worth the climb but require planning: "It is on a hill so have a hand truck or a few people to carry stuff. Trust me it is worth it."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: The larger RV sites at Liberty Harbor offer limited personal space. "Larger rigs will barely have a yard. And don't bet on a private picnic table," warns Ericka T. Many reviewers recommend selecting end-row sites for additional room: "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig."
Utility connections: At Mahlon Dickerson, water connections can be distant from RV sites. "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 camper. The campground provides these reels throughout the property.
Budget considerations: Urban camping at Liberty Harbor costs significantly more than rural options, with rates around $120 per night compared to $15-35 at state parks. "We've paid much less for 'more'... the $120 price per night was ridiculous. But being that they have no competitors in the area (and they know it), RVers wanting a quick escape to see NYC can get it here."
