Camping near Lyndhurst, New Jersey ranges from basic tent sites to urban camping options within a short drive. Most sites in the region are seasonal, typically operating from April through October when temperatures remain between 50-80°F. The proximity to New York City creates a unique blend of urban convenience and outdoor recreation opportunities, with many campgrounds offering views of the Manhattan skyline.
What to do
Lake activities at Harriman State Park: Sebago Cabin Camp provides access to multiple lakes for swimming and paddle boating within the larger Harriman State Park complex. According to Sara P., "There's a few very cute small towns nearby with surprisingly modern restaurants and friendly people. In the same state park (Harriman) is several other lakes for swimming, hiking, and paddle boating (up the road)."
Visit NYC via public transit: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers easy city access despite its basic amenities. One camper shared, "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." Several ferries are also available, with Karen S. noting, "2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you to Manhattan."
Hiking trails with historic sites: Beaver Pond Campground offers trail access to Revolutionary War era sites. "A quick 15 minute drive from Beaver Pond, is Bear Mountain State Park. Here you can find some of the Appalachian Trail, with various smaller trail heads for this historic (Revolutionary Times 1770s) part of the region including the one to Doodle Town," wrote Steve W.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation receives consistent praise for site spacing. Paulene-Amanda M. mentioned, "The campground is small but also secluded. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful." Another camper appreciates that "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large."
Urban camping views: Several campgrounds offer city skyline views as their main attraction. At Liberty Harbor, one camper noted, "Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless," while acknowledging its limitations: "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."
Free and clean shower facilities: Campers frequently mention bathroom quality as a deciding factor. At Beaver Pond Campground, Rebecca S. observed, "Facilities were clean and what you'd expect from a campground." The campground also offers "a moderately stocked store, public bath houses, a laundry facility, playground for the kids and camp-sinks with access to water."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Campgrounds closer to urban areas often experience traffic noise. At Cheesequake State Park, Theresa G. reported, "Used a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic with the exception of some sports cars/motorcycles speeding loudly." Another camper noted, "The parkway runs through/over the park, you will be able to hear traffic noises."
Wildlife management required: Bear activity is common at several campgrounds. At Beaver Pond Campground, the park ranger gives a standard warning about bears. As Steve W. described: "'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... and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area."
Variable campsite quality: Site conditions vary significantly even within the same campground. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, one camper advised, "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." Another reviewer called it "a glorified parking lot with water & electric hookups. Larger rigs will barely have a yard."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Camp Glen Gray offers family-oriented amenities. Christopher M. shared, "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." The trading post sells treats and supplies.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer affordable rates for families. At Beaver Pond Campground, Kelvin noted it's "Great location and quick to get to from NYC. 45 minute drive and location has a lot of amenities. Full bathrooms and slop sinks throughout the campsite." Christina L. added that it's "Very cheap as well. $15/night on Memorial Day weekend!"
Group site arrangements: For family gatherings, some campgrounds allow booking adjacent sites. Kelvin explained that at Beaver Pond, "The campsites are a bit close to one another but if you have a big group you can book several sites near each other and have a great time with family and friends."
Tips from RVers
Site selection at urban campgrounds: At Sandy Hook, RVers recommend specific sites. "Some of the sites do have a wooden pavilion covering the picnic table. Sites also have metal storage units for locking up foodstuffs to protect them from being pilfered by the numerous and bold raccoons," reported Craig M.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds offer dump stations but with limitations. At Liberty Harbor, a camper noted, "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use." At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, a reviewer had a better experience: "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill."
Hookup details: RVers should research electrical capacity before arrival. At Cheesequake State Park, water access requires planning, while Mahlon Dickerson offers both water and electric. According to one reviewer, "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."
