Northern New Jersey sits at elevations between 50 and 1,800 feet, with the camping areas around Hackensack positioned primarily in the Ramapo Mountains and along the Delaware River valley. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with moderate humidity levels. The region's hardwood forests provide natural shade for tent campers, while elevated platforms at many sites help keep equipment dry during the region's frequent summer thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers multiple trails through wooded terrain. "Large wooded campsites in the NJ Skylands... 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. in his review of Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Water activities: Most glamping sites near Hackensack provide lake access. At Great Divide Campground, visitors appreciate the "nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach. Lots of weekend activities," according to Scott N. The campground provides complimentary kayaks for guest use.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park includes target practice areas for bow hunters or recreational archers. "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," suggests Patrick M. in his review of the facilities.
What campers like
Rustic cabins with amenities: Camp Glen Gray's cabins balance convenience with nature immersion. "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," writes Jose N. in his review of Camp Glen Gray.
Elevated camping platforms: Several parks feature raised tent platforms to keep equipment dry. At High Point State Park, "Each place comes with a lamp hang, a fire pit, and a picnic table. Bathrooms are spaced out. No running water except for pump founded outside of the bathrooms," according to Damia F.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds provide adequate spacing for a sense of seclusion. "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site," notes Lee D. about the layout at Turkey Swamp Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: All glamping sites near Hackensack require advance booking, especially during summer months. At Stokes State Forest, availability can be misleading: "We stayed at the campsite at Lake Ocquittunk Area. While making reservations it said almost all sites were full but upon arrival the vast majority of sites were empty which made for a quiet/relaxing night," reports Josh S.
Water access limitations: Not all sites provide direct water hookups. "Water and electric hookups and a dump station. Convenient for hiking and exploring," mentions Jeff W. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation facilities.
Bear safety protocols: The Hackensack region has active black bear populations requiring proper food storage. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," warns one reviewer about Stokes State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Facilities often include dedicated recreation areas. "The common area, along with the pool, had a small soccer field and volleyball court. They also had scheduled activities for kids," explains Ethan K. in his review of Great Divide Campground.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs suitable for children. At Round Valley State Park, visitors can access "the visitor center where staff provide information about local wildlife and trail conditions," according to camper feedback.
Insect preparation: Ticks are common throughout the region. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper," warns LAURA Y. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. At High Point State Park, "the 'trailer' sites aren't level. Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump," reports Grant M.
Hookup variations: Electric and water availability differs between campgrounds. "Sites had room to move and it was quiet and peaceful. Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down," notes Jojo P. about Great Divide Campground.
Seasonal considerations: RV accessibility varies throughout the year. "Even though we had a rainy day, we still enjoyed our time at Great Divide. The campgrounds were very big and spread out and the campsites have their own space so you can enjoy quiet at night. Each site had a water spout and electric plug in," mentions Ethan K.
