Camping sites near Franklin Lakes, New Jersey offer diverse terrain options within a 45-minute drive of the area. The region sits at the edge of the Ramapo Mountains, where elevations range from 300 to 1,100 feet. Summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F during camping season, with cooler nights around 60-65°F in wooded areas.
What to do
Hiking with varying difficulty levels: Stonetown Circular Trail provides challenging rock scrambles with stunning viewpoints. "Stonetown Circular trail is a 11 mile medium/high difficulty loop trail. 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 primitive camping site.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Lakes throughout the region provide swimming and boating options during summer months. "This was beautiful campground with an even nicer lake. You are able to do a hike around the lake. They have both cabins for rent and camping spots on platforms which are great, especially when it rains. You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity," writes Ethan K. about the AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
Winter activities: Some parks maintain year-round operations. "This place is only an hour away from NYC with so much to do and see. These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge," explains Sara P. about winter options at Sebago.
What campers like
Privacy and spaciousness: Many campsites offer good separation between sites. "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," reports Ethan K. from Beaver Pond Campground.
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds feature raised wooden platforms for tents. "I have camped Beaver Pond for the last 45 years and have found something new and better each every year I've gone to the campgrounds. I have gone from tent platform, tent camping, tarp, and now hammock camping," shares Elliot G. about camping options at Beaver Pond.
Meal services at select campgrounds: Some locations offer dining options beyond self-catering. "I camped on one of the platforms, which was very nice and did not feel crowded even with other people on neighboring platforms. One highlight was having meals cooked by the stellar chef. The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio," notes Ilya F. about the AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "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," explains Steve W. from Beaver Pond.
Transportation options: Many campgrounds are accessible without a car. "This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station (reservations on shuttle required)," mentions Ilya F. about getting to certain camping areas.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly across campgrounds. "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," Sara P. notes about Sebago Cabin Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer facilities designed for children. "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," explains Zorina N. about Beaver Pond.
Cabin options for mixed camping comfort: Cabins provide a middle ground between tents and hotels. "Sebago cabins the way to get away and relax enjoy the lake... you can go hiking they also have movie nights they do big bon 🔥 on Saturday very kid friendly ranger Joe is 👌 with the kids and they have 🔥 wood for purchase on site most cabins have 2rooms with 4cots but some are larger inside has a full fridge and double hot plate," shares Hashim C.
Entertainment programs: Some campgrounds offer organized activities. "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions," writes Christopher M. about Camp Glen Gray.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Water and electric connections can be challenging at some sites. "Very clean and quiet. 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. Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point," reports antruze about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Site leveling considerations: Most sites require minimal adjustment. "This county park has large, wooded campsites with electric and water. It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities. And yet it's only about a 15 minute drive to a large mall with movies, shopping, and restaurants," notes Jeff W.
Off-season advantages: Campgrounds are less crowded during non-peak times. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. RV hook-ups, tent platforms, and rustic tent sites were available. 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," explains Rebecca S.
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