Mahlon Dickerson Reservation in Jefferson Township sits at 1,200 feet elevation in the highlands of New Jersey, making it one of the higher elevation camping areas within an hour of New York City. The reservation spans 3,500 acres with campsites nestled among hardwood forests that display vibrant fall colors from late September through October. Winter camping is available at select sites when temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking at Harriman State Park: Located 40 minutes from Mountain Lakes, Beaver Pond Campground offers direct access to the Appalachian Trail. "A quick 40 minutes north of NYC, Harriman State Park has an eclectic little campground called Beaver Pond. The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out," notes camper Steve W.
Kayaking at Round Valley: The 2,350-acre reservoir at Round Valley State Park Campground provides crystal-clear water for paddling. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," explains James R. The park requires either a 3-6 mile hike or boat access to reach campsites.
Fishing at multiple sites: Dog friendly campgrounds near Mountain Lakes offer various fishing opportunities. "We stayed at site 11 on Lake Ocquittunk. Site was located on a small hill next to the lake with the road directly in front and water about 50 yards away," shares Josh S. about his experience at Stokes State Forest, where trout fishing is available spring through fall.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Great Divide Campground near Newton features spacious campsites with natural separation. "Sites had room to move and it was quiet and peaceful. Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful. Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down," explains Jojo P.
Accessibility to NYC: For campers wanting to combine outdoor experiences with city visits, certain campgrounds offer strategic locations. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint. Free Hot showers in the bathrooms, with plenty of room to change," describes Megan B. about her stay at Beaver Pond.
Tent platforms: Several pet-friendly camping options near Mountain Lakes feature raised platforms for tents. "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," notes Ethan K.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Most forested campgrounds in the region have black bear populations. "We didn't visit Welch Lake beach but for a quick walk to the area for a few pictures; it's past season at this point, and I still have to do some fishing pole shopping. 'Welcome to Bear Mountain' grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness!" reports Steve W. about his Beaver Pond experience.
Reservation timing: Peak summer weekends fill quickly at dog-accommodating campgrounds around Mountain Lakes. "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great!" shares Jojo P. about Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Campsite selection considerations: Privacy levels vary significantly between sites. "The campground is small but also secluded. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful. Definitely come here when you get a chance," advises Paulene-Amanda M. about her experience with dogs at a local reservation.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Swartswood State Park Campground offers family-friendly water options. "A bit of a 'low frills' campground, but with lots of good hiking trails, fishing spots, and a great beach area for swimming with the kids," notes Dan B. The park maintains a designated swimming beach with lifeguards during summer months.
Pet-specific sites: When camping with dogs, choose designated pet-friendly sites. "There are only 4 dog friendly sites, which we need. They are 42-45. Be careful with site 44, no good place for a tent. The other are nice," advises Rob M. about Swartswood State Park, highlighting the importance of researching pet policies.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play equipment for children. "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," explains Zorina N. about Beaver Pond, making it suitable for families wanting to stay connected.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Jenny Jump State Forest offers limited electrical hookups for RVs in a wooded setting. "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path. You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake). The sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort," explains Seth K. about this dog-friendly option.
Water connection logistics: Some campgrounds require extra equipment for water connections. "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 a camper about their experience at a local reservation.
Dump station details: Most dog-welcoming campgrounds with RV sites provide dump facilities, though setup varies. "Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground," notes an RVer about their stay at a reservation near Mountain Lakes, emphasizing the practical amenities available.
Legend
