Camping areas near Glen Ridge, New Jersey, span across several counties within a 40-mile radius. Most camping options operate from April through October, with limited winter availability. Northern New Jersey camping terrain includes both highland forests in the northwest and coastal plains to the east, creating diverse camping environments within an hour's drive.
What to do
Hiking at Cheesequake State Park: The park offers several trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty with multiple lookout points. The elevation changes aren't overly strenuous, making them accessible for most skill levels. "This park is on the list of 50 top NJ Hikes, and it has a few great trails. While also walking the trails, people are able to come across many picnic and resting areas," notes one visitor to Cheesequake State Park.
Urban exploration at Fort Wadsworth: Explore abandoned historical military structures while camping. "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building," reports a camper who stayed at Staten Island Gateway National Recreation Area.
Water activities at Panther Lake: The large lake provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and boating. "Boating is great, good fishing," mentions a review. Panther Lake Camping Resort offers boat rentals for those who don't bring their own watercraft, allowing easy access to lake activities.
What campers like
NYC skyline views: Several campgrounds offer unique urban views while still providing camping amenities. "Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless," states a camper at Liberty Harbor RV Park. This park positions campers just across from Manhattan with convenient transportation options into the city.
Large, separated campsites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at county parks. "The campground is small but also secluded," mentions a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. Another notes, "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large."
Off-season quietness: Visiting during non-peak times provides a more peaceful experience. A camper at Beaver Pond Campground notes, "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. 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."
What you should know
Transportation options: When staying near the city, public transit is often more practical than driving. At Liberty Harbor, "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll."
Bear safety concerns: Bears are active in northern New Jersey forests. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! 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," reports a visitor to Beaver Pond Campground.
Seasonal site limitations: Many campgrounds convert significant portions of their property to seasonal rentals. At Panther Lake, "Majority of sites are seasonal campers with LOTS of cottages. Went early in the season so many had not been maintained in months. Only a handful of full hook up sites surrounded by seasonal cottages."
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Look for campgrounds with multiple recreation facilities. "Fun camping place to book groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub," recommends a camper who visited Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Noise considerations: Many campgrounds near urban areas experience traffic noise. At Cheesequake State Park, "The parkway runs through/over the park, you will be able to hear traffic noises. That said, this is probably a great place for those who have not camped before, it's easy to get to and close to civilization."
Weather-ready platforms: Raised tent platforms provide better camping conditions during wet weather. At Camp Glen Gray, "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." Another camper notes the rustic quality with many camp options including "Cabins - Leanto - Tent Sites."
Tips from RVers
Site utilities: Water connections at some campgrounds require planning. "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 an RVer at Mahlon Dickerson.
Urban RV parking limitations: Urban campgrounds often have tight spacing. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, a visitor notes it's "Basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. 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."
Cell service and connectivity: Signal strength varies significantly throughout the region. At Panther Lake, a camper warned "Only issue is the internet is terrible u have to be near the wifi zones," while another stated "it's like a black hole of signals there."
