Camping areas near Englewood, New Jersey sit at the transition zone between the Palisades' steep cliffs and the Hackensack River wetlands, with elevations ranging from 3 to 400 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, closing during winter months when overnight temperatures frequently drop below freezing. Access to camping sites requires navigation through dense urban areas before reaching more natural settings.
What to do
Swimming and beach access: Croton Point Park offers swimming in the Hudson River during summer months with lifeguards on duty. "The park itself is located on a peninsula on the Hudson River... with beach access during summer months when lifeguards are on duty," notes a visitor to Croton Point Park. Another camper adds, "Short 5 minute drive to nearby supermarket to pick up food or firewood. I would highly recommend it. Oh...and did i say, gorgeous scenery along the river and a private beach."
Hiking accessible trails: Within an hour of Englewood, multiple trail systems provide varied terrain options. At Beaver Pond Campground, a camper reports, "Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby. Definitely coming back again and making this place a regular visit for my family and friends." The trails range from easy to challenging with options for all ability levels.
Urban exploration: For campers wanting to balance outdoor experiences with city visits, transit access becomes important. A visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park explains, "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless. Getting in and out of the city is an adventure."
What campers like
Natural surroundings despite urban proximity: Many campers appreciate the natural elements that persist so close to urban areas. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, a visitor notes, "The campsite was pleasant and it was peaceful during quiet hours (10pm-7am) on both Friday and Saturday nights." Another camper reports, "When you are camping with a large group of friends and don't all have access to a car, this is the perfect spot."
Waterfront settings: Several campgrounds feature water access that campers particularly enjoy. One visitor to Skyline RV Camp describes, "A little intimidating driving in to a nondescript gate at the end of a narrow street but the overall experience exceeded expectation... the view of the skyline across the water is spectacular and there's a metro station within a 10-minute walk."
Budget-friendly options: Some campgrounds near Englewood offer economical alternatives to expensive hotels. A camper at Beaver Pond Campground notes, "Camping for just $15. This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. They have a beach. Their staff is friendly. I love going here."
What you should know
Noise factors: Urban-adjacent camping often comes with noise considerations. A camper at Cheesequake State Park shares, "Used a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic with the exception of some sports cars/motorcycles speeding loudly." Another notes, "If you're truly looking to get away from it all I would go elsewhere since the parkway runs through/over the park."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Campground bathroom quality differs significantly across locations. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, a visitor reports, "The laundry was not working properly and ate a good $5 of our quarters. We went to the office where the security guard told us that they cannot do anything." In contrast, at Skyline RV Camp, a camper states, "On-site bathrooms were warm and clean. There were portable showers available but beware the broken shower head holders."
Primitive camping limitations: Some sites have minimal amenities. At 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."
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly considerations: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Englewood require leashing pets at all times. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a visitor notes, "My fiancé, dog, and I have been going here for over 2 years and we love it. The campground is small but also secluded. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful."
Wildlife awareness: Several campgrounds have active wildlife populations requiring precautions. At Croton Point Park, one camper advises, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Swimming options for children: Families benefit from campgrounds with controlled swimming areas. A visitor to Beaver Pond Campground shares, "Great location and quick to get to from NYC. 45 minute drive and location has a lot of amenities. Full bathrooms and slop sinks throughout the campsite... The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary dramatically in terms of space and privacy. A Liberty Harbor RV Park visitor advises, "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. Pluses, minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, liberty Science center."
Utility access: Water and electric hookups present challenges at some locations. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a camper notes, "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."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer dump stations. A Mahlon Dickerson camper reports, "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City." In contrast, Croton Point Park has more limited facilities for large rigs.
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