Campgrounds near Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey sit within the Hudson River Palisades region, characterized by steep cliffs rising 300-550 feet above the Hudson River. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with limited winter camping options due to northeastern weather conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails at Harriman State Park: The park features miles of hiking paths directly accessible from camping areas. "There are a lot of nice hikes directly from the campground. The bathrooms and showers were also pretty clean too. Lots of water spickets throughout the ground," notes Sammi A. about Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Beach and water activities: Several campgrounds provide swimming opportunities from late spring through early fall. "The park has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean! They even have boat rentals - or you can bring your own boat to launch," shares Shelly B. about Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Historical exploration: Many campsites serve as bases for exploring Revolutionary War sites. "Bear Mountain State Park... here you can find 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," explains Steve W. about Beaver Pond Campground.
What campers like
City proximity: The ability to reach Manhattan easily ranks high for campers. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," writes Megan B. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Private tent areas: Tent campsites often offer more seclusion than RV sections. "The tent site is after the RV site, so use their LX before you get to site if you can. Dumpster and water near sites," explains Jonathan C. about Croton Point Park.
Elevated camping platforms: Raised tent platforms provide practical benefits in wet conditions. "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," shares Ethan K.
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Bears and other animals are active in the region. "Welcome to Bear Mountain' grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area," recounts Steve W.
Transportation planning: RV drivers need to plan routes carefully due to parkway restrictions. "I drove down from Connecticut to Long Island to find the main routes to the campsite all went through New York's parkways. There are height restrictions on the parkways so RVs and semis cannot travel on them without a high risk of crashing into the bridges," warns Matt S. about Nickerson Beach Park Campground.
Seasonal facilities: Some amenities close after peak season. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful. Great hikes," notes Courtney D. about Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for sites with dedicated children's areas. "They have cabins and RV sites and now that the Tapan Zee bridge work is done most of them are now open again as the bridge workers have moved out. There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids," shares Andrew A. about Croton Point Park.
Cabin options for beginners: First-time campers might prefer cabins for an easier experience. "I took my 5 year old-son and wife, all of us first time campers. This place was great. The site was very nice, all the people friendly and area beautiful," says Kevin G. about Croton Point Park.
Entertainment scheduling: Check for ranger-led programs during your stay. "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too," mentions Sara P. about Sebago Cabin Camp.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for space: Corner spots typically offer more 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," advises Keith and Tia S. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Access to public transit: Several campgrounds offer connections to New York City. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," notes Nancymike K. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Pet-friendly considerations: Most campgrounds allow pets but with specific areas for exercise. "Campsite allows dogs, however, the beach does not. They have a small dog run on the other side of the large beach parking lot," explains Theresa G. about Nickerson Beach Park Campground, making it part of the pet friendly camping options near Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey.
Legend
