Camping options near Lyndhurst, New Jersey range from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks within a 45-minute drive. The area sits at the intersection of the Meadowlands ecosystem and suburban development, with elevations ranging from sea level to 400 feet in nearby reservation lands. Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October, with summer temperatures typically reaching 80-90°F and moderate humidity.
What to do
Morning hikes at Beaver Pond: This campground in Harriman State Park offers multiple trail options with moderate elevation changes. Located about 30 minutes from Sleepy Hollow, the area features "deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint. Free Hot showers in the bathrooms, with plenty of room to change," according to Megan B., who visited Beaver Pond Campground.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds provide water access during summer months. At Sebago Cabins, "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," notes Ethan K. The cabins are "equipped with an outside grill and picnic area," making it convenient for day swimming trips.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities at most area campgrounds. Paul K. mentions that at Croton Point Park, visitors can enjoy "swimming, hiking, kayaking" and other activities along the Hudson River, though he notes the park has "become laden with all sorts of inexplicable and burdensome rules."
What campers like
Proximity to NYC: Many campers appreciate how quickly they can get from urban areas to camping sites. According to Emily L., Liberty Harbor RV Park provides "excellent access to the City" and is "right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City."
Platform tent sites: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers raised platforms for tents, which Christina L. found helpful: "They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt." She recommends "site 7. It is on a hill so have a hand truck or a few people to carry stuff. Trust me it is worth it."
Varied terrain for different skill levels: The region offers both easy and moderate trails suitable for different hiking abilities. At Cheesequake State Park, one reviewer noted that "trails range from easy to moderate with quite a few lookout locations. The elevation of the trails is not too strenuous."
What you should know
Bear awareness: Several campgrounds in the region have active bear populations. At Beaver Pond Campground, Steve W. describes his check-in experience: "'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."
Campground noise levels: Many campgrounds near urban areas experience higher noise levels. Jonathan C. warns that at Croton Point Park, "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm. Great site for a party, try to stay away from this end of the site or choose a site away from other bookings if you'd like quiet."
Misleading photos: Some campgrounds may not match their online representations. JOHN T. cautions about Skyline RV Camp: "Be advised that Skyline RV Camp has moved to: 50 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222... There no longer is a waterfront view of the NYC skyline when camping at Skyline RV. The website views are misleading."
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly options: Sebago Cabins State Park offers activities specifically for children. Sara P. notes, "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too."
Playground access: Several parks offer playground facilities for children. Thomas at Croton Point Park mentions a "playground within sight of our camper," making it easier for parents to supervise while at their site.
Pet considerations for families: For pet friendly camping near Lyndhurst, New Jersey, Paulene-Amanda M. recommends Mahlon Dickerson: "My fiancé, dog, and I have been going here for over 2 years and we love it. The campground is small but also secluded. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful."
Tips from RVers
Parking lot style RV camping: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers basic accommodations close to NYC. Keith and Tia S. explain: "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. 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 will be within inches of your rig."
Water hookup logistics: When staying at Mahlon Dickerson with an RV, note that water connections may require planning. One reviewer shared: "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."
City noise considerations: RVers should be prepared for urban sounds. Kevin A. shared about Liberty Harbor: "It was a little loud with city noises, but exactly what we expected being so close. Staff was great. Easy access with our 32 foot RV pulling our Jeep."
Legend
