Northern New Jersey's Skylands region sits at elevations between 400-1,200 feet, creating a diverse landscape for campers near Upper Montclair. The area features deciduous forest terrain with oak, maple and hickory trees that provide natural shade at many campsites. Temperature variations between valley campgrounds and ridge sites can differ by 5-10 degrees, particularly during spring and fall camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking accessible from camp: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, hikers can access trails directly from their campsites. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," notes Paulene-Amanda M. in her review of Mahlon Dickerson.
Swimming options: Beaver Pond Campground offers a lifeguard-monitored beach during summer months. "Beaver Pond has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," shares Ethan K. about Beaver Pond Campground.
NYC day trips: Liberty Harbor RV Park serves as a convenient base for city exploration. "Very easy to hop on transit to get to New York City. People were friendly," explains Karla S. The location allows campers to combine urban adventures with camping.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Campgaw Mountain Reservation offers primitive camping at no cost with proper permits. "This is a great spot to set up camp because it has a wide area and an amazing view," notes Ethan K. about the Stonetown Circular trail site, another free primitive option in the region.
Clean facilities: The bathhouses at Great Divide Campground receive consistent praise. "Bathrooms clean and shower was warm and clean as well. They even have a heater to keep you comfortable in and out of the shower," reports Julie in her review of Great Divide.
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds in the region offer programmed events. At Sebago Cabins, "they do big bon fire on Saturday very kid friendly ranger Joe is great with the kids and they have fire wood for purchase on site," according to Hashim C.
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Several campgrounds in the region require proper food storage. "Welcome to Bear Mountain grumbles the park ranger... He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area," shares Steve W. about his experience at Beaver Pond Campground.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise. At Cheesequake State Park, "the Parkway is right there so its not a nice quiet place," notes Stacey R. Consider site location when booking if seeking quiet.
Cell reception gaps: Signal varies widely between campgrounds. At Panther Lake, "Only issue is the internet is terrible u have to be near the wifi zones," mentions Umar A.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation access: Families appreciate campgrounds with swimming options. At Panther Lake, "We had a blast in the lake and riding their bikes around. Pool was packed so didn't spend time there but the ceramic class was fun for the girls," explains Jojo P. in her Panther Lake Camping Resort review.
Cabin alternatives for dog-friendly stays: Beyond tent sites, several dog-friendly campgrounds near Upper Montclair offer cabins. "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," shares Ethan K. about Sebago Cabins.
Hiking difficulty ratings: When camping with kids, check trail ratings first. At Harriman State Park, "trails in the area are friendly to hikers, bikers, and the non arthritic kneers, as most are rated moderate to challenging. Don't fret, trails that are rated easy and accessible to disabled are equally enjoyable and beautiful," advises Steve W.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: At Great Divide Campground, an RVer noted, "Most sites are level. Some areas are a little steeper then I would like to set up on, but that's me." The campground's terrain includes hills that may require additional preparation.
RV size limitations: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Upper Montclair have restrictions on large rigs. "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.
Utilities management: Water hookups can be challenging at some sites. "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 an RVer about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
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