Camping sites near Hawthorne, New Jersey sit at elevations between 200-1,300 feet in the northern New Jersey Highlands region. The area receives approximately 50 inches of annual rainfall with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Many campgrounds maintain operations from April through October, with several properties implementing fire restrictions during dry periods from July through September.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Welch: Beaver Pond Campground provides easy access to Lake Welch beach, complete with lifeguard-monitored swimming areas during summer. "The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out," notes Steve W. from Beaver Pond Campground.
Hiking on historic trails: Several camping areas connect to sections of the Appalachian Trail and Revolutionary War-era paths. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers direct trail access. "Been here a dozen times! Great hiking for all abilities. Free camping at stone shelters. Beautiful lakes all over the place," writes Meredith C. from The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
Boating and canoeing options: Rental canoes and kayaks are available at several properties. "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity," explains Ethan K. about The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
What campers like
Platform tent sites for weather protection: Several campgrounds feature elevated wooden platforms for tent setup. "Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay," explains Ethan K. from Beaver Pond Campground.
Large, well-spaced campsites: Campers consistently mention appreciation for site privacy. "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," shares Ethan K.
Affordable camping options: Several properties maintain lower fees compared to private campgrounds. "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," writes Adaly about Beaver Pond Campground, adding "Camping for just $15."
What you should know
Bear activity protocols: Harriman State Park campgrounds maintain strict bear-aware policies. "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," reports Steve W. from Beaver Pond Campground.
Rockier terrain on primitive sites: Backcountry sites require preparation for challenging access. At Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #1, "The only difficult thing about this site is that it is at the top of a fairly difficult rock scramble. I would advise packing light if making camp at this site because a heavy pack would make this scramble up the mountain even harder," advises Ethan K.
Seasonal availability variations: Most properties close during winter months. "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," notes Rebecca S. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Some campgrounds feature play areas visible from camping sites. "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper," writes Thomas about Croton Point Park.
Cabin cleanliness standards: Family-friendly cabins maintain consistent maintenance schedules. "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," reports Christopher M. from Camp Glen Gray.
Phone service considerations: Cell coverage varies significantly between properties. At Croton Point Park, Thomas mentions: "Site does not have Wi-Fi and street address didn't work correctly with multiple GPS apps. (Used Park address.)" In contrast, Zorina N. notes about Beaver Pond: "Your phone will have signal."
Tips from RVers
Gear transport assistance: Some parks restrict vehicle access but provide equipment moving services. "Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp," explains Jose N. from Camp Glen Gray.
Water hookup distances: RV sites may require extended hose lengths at certain properties. "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," reports antruze about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Dump station accessibility: Several campgrounds maintain on-site dump stations with specific access times. "Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground," notes antruze about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
