Camping options near Upper Montclair, New Jersey are centered in a region of rolling hills and deciduous forests, part of the northeastern Piedmont plateau with elevations ranging from 150 to 500 feet. Most established campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, typically closing between late October and early April due to the region's cold winters with average January temperatures around 30°F. Access to natural areas requires driving 30-60 minutes from Upper Montclair's suburban environment.
What to do
Swimming at nearby lakes: Harriman State Park offers multiple swimming options, with Beaver Pond Campground located just steps from Welch Lake. "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. If you want to get away and relax you can come here to walk, swim and camp," notes Brian O.
Urban exploration and hiking: While camping at Camp Gateway Sandy Hook, visitors can explore military history on the base. "The history housed on this base, with a hanger were full of old planes where dedicated veterans worked diligently to restore them, provided us up close inspection of multiple planes, including a mini-sized glider which we were granted personal access to get into," shares Susan B.
Trail exploration: The region offers extensive trail systems for day hiking. "Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Convenient for hiking and exploring, it's also only a 20 minute drive to a large mall in Rockaway," explains Jeff W.
What campers like
Privacy and space between sites: Many campers value the generous spacing at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, unlike the urban camping options. "We really like this campground. Quiet and spacious. No facilities, just a porta-jon, but i think that makes it better. Police patrolled, and dog friendly," notes Paul N.
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds in the area feature raised wooden platforms for tent setup. At Beaver Pond Campground, "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. 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," says Ethan K.
Access to New York City: The area's unique appeal lies in combining outdoor experiences with urban proximity. "Staten Island has 7 campsites here and it fill up really fast. There is abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. At night there are no stars because the city lights cover them up. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building. This place is great if you live in New York city and don't want to drive really far from the city to go camping," shares phillip L.
What you should know
Bear awareness is essential: When camping in the best places near Upper Montclair, wildlife encounters are possible. At Beaver Pond Campground, rangers emphasize bear safety. "'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. It's totally dark inside, lit only by the glow of the outside lamps," recounts Steve W., who adds that rangers "gives us the run down on bear activity in the area. I mean, we are in Bear Mountain, what do you expect?!?"
Limited amenities at some sites: While Camp Glen Gray offers rustic charm, it requires self-sufficiency. "Great Camp!!! One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp," explains Jose N.
Noise levels vary significantly: Urban-adjacent camping often means traffic noise. At Cheesequake State Park, "Located between two busy roads... Stayed in the family campground in a travel trailer. Used a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic with the exception of some sports cars/motorcycles speeding loudly," notes Theresa G.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kid-friendly activities: Several parks organize ranger-led programs. At Sebago Cabin Camp, "ranger Joe is 👌 with the kids and they have 🔥 wood for purchase on site most cabins have 2rooms with 4cots but some are larger inside has a full fridge and double hot plate outside a 🔥 pit and grill with table," shares Hashim C.
Consider cabin options for mixed comfort levels: For families with members who prefer indoor sleeping, cabins provide compromise. "We were able to rent a cabin which was equipped with an outside grill and picnic area. It is great if you are going with a group/family and people want to sleep inside a cabin as oppose to a tent outside," explains Ethan K. about Sebago Cabins.
Check swimming safety features: Family-friendly swimming areas typically offer lifeguards. At Beaver Pond, "The beach is secured with lifeguards and shower and bathroom facilities are available," mentions Brian O., making it safer for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: At Liberty Harbor RV Park, RVers note terrain challenges. "Sites kind of level and very close. Power and water, and convenient dump station if staying and needing to dump. The bath house was above average and heated. The laundry was helpful and was acceptable," shares Joe R.
Utility access considerations: Water connections often require planning at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. "Very clean and quiet. 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," explains antruze.
Approach routes matter: When navigating to RV parks near the city, toll avoidance requires strategy. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," advises Joe R. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
