Primitive camping opportunities remain accessible around North Bergen, New Jersey despite its dense urban landscape. The region sits where the Hudson River meets the Atlantic coastal plain, creating a diverse topography of highlands to the northwest and tidal wetlands to the east. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, requiring campers to bring appropriate cold-weather gear when visiting during off-season months.
What to do
Kayaking on Round Valley Reservoir: Round Valley Recreation Area offers a 2,350-acre reservoir where campers can explore crystalline waters. According to camper Riley K., "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," making it ideal for a day on the water before returning to your primitive campsite.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: High Point State Park Campground connects directly to the Appalachian Trail with several access points near the campgrounds. A reviewer noted, "I stopped at this shelter while hiking the AT in High Point SP. It was raining the entire day and the shelter provided a dry place to take a break."
Mountain biking trails: Allaire State Park features extensive mountain biking options ranging from beginner to advanced. As camper Beau B. explains, "Mountain Biking from easy, paved trails to several miles of single track with everything in between," making it a versatile destination for cyclists of all skill levels.
What campers like
Secluded tent platforms: Many campgrounds provide elevated tent platforms that keep you dry in wet conditions. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, Christina L. shares that "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."
Lake access from campsites: Turkey Swamp Park features sites with immediate lake access for fishing and relaxation. One camper mentioned, "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forest. There is pretty lake with good fishing and they sell bait at the Ranger office."
Winter cabin options: For off-season glamping in North Bergen, New Jersey's surrounding area, several parks maintain heated cabins. A visitor to Stokes State Forest remarked, "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely. I went through two bundles of wood in one night."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Many camping areas require proper food storage due to active bear populations. At Stokes State Forest, one camper warned, "This is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes."
Limited shower facilities: Several campgrounds restrict shower access to certain hours or locations. At High Point State Park, a reviewer noted, "Showers are at the day use area, from 10-5:30, no trailer dump, website says laundry, but apparently not."
Reservation systems: Most glamping sites near North Bergen require advance booking, especially during peak season. Sites can fill up 3-6 months in advance on weekends from May through September.
Tick prevention: Ticks are prevalent throughout the region. One camper at Turkey Swamp Park warned, "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper."
Tips for camping with families
Look for private sites: Choose campgrounds that offer good separation between sites for a better family experience. At Great Divide Campground, a camper noted, "The campgrounds were very big and spread out and the campsites have their own space so you can enjoy quiet at night."
Free water activities: Some campgrounds include complimentary boat rentals. According to a Great Divide visitor, "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."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Turkey Swamp Park, one camper mentioned, "There are playgrounds and picnic areas as well. This is a lovely campground."
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds provide dump stations, so plan accordingly. A camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation shared, "The dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground."
Campsite leveling: Panther Lake Camping Resort and several other campgrounds require careful positioning for larger RVs. A visitor observed, "Only a handful of full hook up sites surrounded by seasonal cottages. Other area of the place had water and electric but it would be hard to get in/out of if it had rained a lot as it was all on soft grass."
Electric hookup options: For glamping near North Bergen with electricity, check amperage options carefully. As one Mahlon Dickerson camper noted, "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."
