Camping spots near Emerson, New Jersey range from rustic tent sites to well-equipped RV parks within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at moderate elevations between 200-1,200 feet with mixed deciduous forests dominating the landscape. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during camping season, with periodic afternoon thunderstorms common from June through August.
What to do
Hiking to viewpoints: At Stonetown Circular trail, accessible primitive sites reward moderate effort with stunning vistas. "This site is about 2 miles into the hike. This is a great spot to set up camp because it has a wide area and an amazing view. You will find the site right next to the American Flag at the top of the mountain," notes Ethan K. about the first primitive site.
Water activities: Swimming beaches provide relief during summer months. Kelvin from Beaver Pond Campground shares, "The campsites are a bit close to one another but if you have a big group you can book several sites near each other and have a great time with family and friends. Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby."
History exploration: Revolutionary War sites dot the region near Bear Mountain. Steve W. describes trails near Beaver Pond: "Bear Mountain State Park offers some of the Appalachian Trail, with various smaller trail heads for this historic (Revolutionary Times 1770s) part of the region including the one to Doodle Town. Long since the last resident left, the area is a ruins with markers showing where a house was."
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds feature raised platforms, providing better protection from ground moisture. "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," explains Ethan K.
Lakefront access: Many camping areas include swimming beaches with lifeguards during summer. At Sebago Cabin Camp, Sara P. found disconnection a benefit: "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING. There's a few very cute small towns nearby with surprisingly modern restaurants and friendly people. In the same state park (Harriman) is several other lakes for swimming, hiking, and paddle boating."
Off-season solitude: Fall and spring camping provides quieter experiences. Rebecca S. explains about Croton Point Park: "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great. Expect to purchase firewood, although scrounging for kindling was possible."
What you should know
Bear activity: Black bears are common in the region, requiring proper food storage. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness," shares Steve W. about check-in procedures at Beaver Pond, where rangers provide "the run down on bear activity in the area. I mean, we are in Bear Mountain, what do you expect?!"
Seasonal crowding: Summer weekends fill quickly at most sites. Jonathan C. warns about Campgaw Mountain Reservation: "The sites themselves are fairly close to the road and there are super popular hiking trails that run right through all the camps. If you like being woken up by folks walking their dog at 7 AM, this is the spot for you."
Noise considerations: Train tracks near some campgrounds create periodic disturbances. Andrew A. notes about Croton Point Park: "Only down side is there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Zorina N. recommends Beaver Pond: "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal."
Consider rustic cabins: Basic cabins offer a middle ground between tenting and RVs. Hashim C. describes Camp Glen Gray accommodations: "Great Camp! One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Trading Post for treats and other items."
Pack for wildlife encounters: Raccoons frequently visit campsites after dark. Anil S. advises at Croton Point Park: "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night. Fire is allowed and has no issues of mosquitoes."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most campgrounds near Emerson limit RV size. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, Jeff W. notes: "This county park has large, wooded campsites with electric and water. The campsites are paved and mostly level."
Long water hose requirements: Some hookup sites require extended hoses. The "antruze" reviewer at Mahlon Dickerson observed: "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."
Limited sewer hookups: Most campgrounds offer dump stations rather than site hookups. Nancymike K. found Mahlon Dickerson suitable: "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City."
