Best Campgrounds near Mountain Lakes, NJ
Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers spacious, wooded sites for camping near Mountain Lakes, New Jersey, approximately 15 miles west of the city. Several campgrounds in the region accommodate various camping styles, including tent camping on wooden platforms, RV sites with water and electric hookups, and cabin options. Great Divide Campground and Panther Lake Camping Resort provide additional mixed-use campgrounds with tent and RV sites, while Stokes State Forest, located about 30 miles northwest, features year-round camping opportunities with more rustic amenities.
Camping season for most facilities runs from April through October, with limited winter camping available at select locations. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends. One camper noted, "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that." Road access to most camping areas remains good throughout the season, though visitors should check for seasonal closures after heavy rain or snow events. Sites near Mountain Lakes generally sit at moderate elevations, offering comfortable summer temperatures but potential for cold nights in spring and fall. Cell service varies across the region but tends to be stronger near developed areas and campgrounds.
Campers consistently praise the spacious, private nature of sites at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. "The sites are nicely wooded, very well spaced, fairly level with 50A service and water hookup," wrote one visitor. The extensive trail networks connected to many camping areas provide additional recreational opportunities, with several campgrounds offering direct trail access from sites. While some campgrounds prohibit alcohol, most allow pets with proper leashing. Bathroom facilities range from basic pit toilets at primitive sites to modern shower buildings at larger campgrounds. The proximity to New York City (approximately 40 miles east) makes these camping areas popular weekend destinations, so midweek visits often provide more solitude and better site selection, especially for last-minute travelers.
