Campgrounds near Mahwah, New Jersey sit at elevations ranging from 200 to 1,200 feet in the Ramapo Mountains, creating varied camping terrain across northern New Jersey and southern New York. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from December through February, making most primitive sites inaccessible, while summer highs average 82°F. Most campsites in this region are situated within dense deciduous forests with oak, maple, and hickory predominating.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Mahwah region hosts black bears, white-tailed deer, and over 200 bird species. At Beaver Pond Campground, "Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," notes Megan B. Bears are active throughout the area, requiring proper food storage.
Swimming and water activities: Most lakes in the region open for swimming from late May through early September. Sebago Cabin Camp offers excellent water recreation options. As Sara P. notes, "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."
Rock scrambling: The Stonetown Circular Trail contains challenging rock formations leading to significant elevation gains. The first primitive site requires navigating a difficult rock section, as Ethan K. explains: "This site is about 2 miles into the hike. 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."
What campers like
Raised tent platforms: Many campers appreciate the elevated platforms at several campsites near Mahwah. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "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," writes Christina L. These platforms help during wet conditions.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer affordable rates compared to other Northeast camping destinations. "Camping for just $15," notes Adaly about Beaver Pond Campground. "This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. Their staff is friendly."
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the site layout at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. Paulene-Amanda M. writes, "The campground is small but also secluded. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful." The separation between sites offers privacy not often found in more developed campgrounds.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Bears are common throughout the region, particularly during summer months. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center provides bear boxes: "They do have bear boxes available as this is bear country," Thomas M. advises. Most campsites require hanging food or using locked containers.
Reservation policies: Most established campgrounds require reservations weeks in advance for summer weekends. Some primitive sites operate on first-come, first-served basis. At Wawayanda State Park, sites often fill by Thursday for weekend camping from June through August.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have limited or no cellular connectivity. Sara P. notes about Sebago Cabin Camp: "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING." Signal is typically available at park entrances and visitor centers but not at individual campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment and accessible trails. Croton Point Park offers "playground within sight of our camper," according to Thomas. The park also includes basketball courts and beach access with lifeguards.
Educational opportunities: Rangers at many parks offer nature programs during summer weekends. Camper Elliot G. notes Beaver Pond offers "Something for all, swimming, camping, access to bear mountain pool, or the appalachian trails." Many programs focus on local ecology and wildlife.
Swimming access: Several campgrounds provide monitored swimming areas with lifeguards during summer months. Anil S. describes Croton Point Park's "private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty!" Most beaches close by 6pm with no evening swimming permitted.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited in the region, with most sites offering only electric and water. At Campgaw Mountain Reservation, sites are more primitive with fewer amenities. Jake R. notes, "The sites themselves are fairly close to the road and there are super popular hiking trails that run right through all the camps."
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the mountainous terrain require leveling blocks. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "The campsites are paved and mostly level," according to Jeff W., making it one of the better options for larger rigs in the region.
Water access solutions: Some campgrounds offer creative solutions for water hookups. At Mahlon Dickerson, "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.
