Northern New Jersey offers varied terrain for camping with elevations ranging from 160 to 1,800 feet in nearby mountain areas. Campgrounds near Little Falls provide access to the scenic Watchung Mountains and Ramapo Valley regions where temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during summer days. Most camping areas remain open from April through late October with varying amenities for pet owners.
What to do
Hiking with dogs: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation in Jefferson offers pet-friendly hiking trails surrounding their camping areas. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," notes camper Paulene-Amanda M. Dogs must stay leashed on all trails.
Swimming options: While not all pet-friendly sites have swimming, Beaver Pond Campground provides lake access a short walk from camping areas. "A stones throw from NYC this beautiful area combines Lake Welch and Harriman State Park. This camp ground is laid back away from the busy activity of the big city," explains Brian O.
Urban exploration: Liberty Harbor RV Park serves as a strategic base for NYC trips with pets. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," according to Joe R. The location allows pet owners to return to their animals between city excursions rather than boarding them elsewhere.
What campers like
Security features: Many pet owners appreciate the safety measures at campgrounds near Little Falls. "We had some issues with our converter and they wanted to extort a 20% commission to allow our repair man in. A bit of logical conversation put that idea to sleep," reports Joe R. about Liberty Harbor, indicating that while security is tight, communication with staff resolves issues.
Natural seclusion: Stonetown Circular Trail Primitive #1 provides truly remote camping with pets. "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," shares Ethan K. The primitive site requires carrying pet supplies for approximately two miles.
Tent platforms: Raised camping platforms at several sites keep tents dry during wet weather. "And at the campgrounds there is a platform where you can pitch your tent," mentions Paulene-Amanda M. about Mahlon Dickerson. These platforms provide better drainage when camping with pets, preventing muddy paws inside sleeping areas.
What you should know
Site spacing variations: Cheesequake State Park Campground offers mixed experiences for pet owners. "Sites were a little too close together and one of the sites we reserved was filled with broken glass, we did call the park office and they promptly sent someone out to clean it up," reports Katrina Z., though staff addressed the issue quickly.
Urban noise levels: Proximity to highways affects some pet-friendly camping areas. According to Stacey R., "the Parkway is right there so its not a nice quiet place" at Cheesequake. This may impact dogs sensitive to traffic sounds.
Rock scrambles: The primitive sites along Stonetown Circular require challenging terrain navigation. "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," warns Ethan K. Consider dog mobility limitations before attempting these hikes.
Tips for camping with families
First-timer friendly: Cheesequake works well for introducing children and pets to camping. "This is a great site for those who are not avid campers. It's close to town if you forget something and it has all the facilities you may need, bathroom, shower, etc.," advises Maggie A.
Activity options: Panther Lake Camping Resort provides numerous pet-friendly activities for families. "Big campground, lots of sites, nice pool, big community hot tub, boating is great, good fishing, nice playground, basketball court and great amenities," lists Richard V., offering activities after dog walks.
Wildlife awareness: Several campgrounds report wildlife encounters near pet-friendly sites. "We had a great time. Only issue was a skunk that visited our campsite multiple times in one night. Was not afraid of humans," cautions Colleen C. from Panther Lake. Keep pet food secured at night to prevent unwanted animal visitors.
Tips from RVers
Transit connections: For RVers with pets wanting to visit NYC, Liberty Harbor offers strategic location advantages. "This is a pricey park, but options are limited. As in almost non existent. This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," explains Joe R.
Size considerations: Sebago Cabin Camp provides alternatives to RV camping with pets. "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," describes Sara P., noting the cabins accommodate pets while maintaining a camping feel.
Hookup locations: Water connections at some pet-friendly sites 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," notes camper "antruze" at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, helpful when needing water for pets.
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