Northern New Jersey's Morris and Passaic County areas sit at elevations between 350-1,500 feet, with campgrounds nestled among hardwood forests and glacial lakes. Seasonal weather ranges from humid summers averaging 85°F to freezing winters, making late spring through fall the primary camping season. Many campgrounds operate from April through October, with varying options for pet owners.
What to Do
Hiking at Wawayanda State Park: Explore over 60 miles of trails including a section of the Appalachian Trail. The park offers primitive camping with basic amenities and lake access. "Haven't gotten the chance to camp here yet, but will definitely do so this summer. Fantastic loop hike near some hidden lakes. One downside is there were obviously people who had visited and didn't understand what LEAVE NO TRACE means," notes Meredith C.
Swimming and beach access: Croton Point Park features a beach with lifeguards during summer months. Visitors can enjoy the Hudson River views while camping nearby. "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!" writes Wendy C.
Water sports on Panther Lake: Rent boats and kayaks for fishing and exploring at this family-oriented campground. "Panther lake was a pretty good campground with lots of spots to camp at. The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake," says Ethan K.
What Campers Like
Elevated tent platforms: Beaver Pond Campground offers raised camping platforms that keep tents dry during wet weather. "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," reports Ethan K.
Primitive trail sites: The Stonetown Circular Trail provides free backcountry camping with scenic views for hikers with pets. "This is the first of two primitive sites along the trail. This is a great spot to set up camp because it has a wide area and an amazing view. You will find the site right next to the American Flag at the top of the mountain," explains Ethan K.
Proximity to NYC attractions: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near North Haledon provide access to New York City via public transit. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," shares Megan B. about Beaver Pond Campground.
What You Should Know
Off-season advantages: Campgrounds are less crowded and often more peaceful during weekdays and shoulder seasons. "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great. Expect to purchase firewood, although scrounging for kindling was possible," notes Rebecca S.
Wildlife awareness: Sebago Cabin Camp and other area campgrounds have active wildlife including bears. "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping," advises Kelvin from Beaver Pond.
Varied cabin options: Rustic cabins without running water offer a middle ground between tent camping and full amenities. "Sebago cabins the way to get away and relax enjoy the lake 🎏 you can go hiking they also have movie nights they do big bon 🔥 on Saturday very kid friendly ranger Joe is 👌 with the kids and they have 🔥 wood for purchase on site most cabins have 2rooms with 4cots," reports Hashim C.
Tips for Camping with Families
Plan for activities: Panther Lake Camping Resort provides organized events for children. "Fun camping place to books groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub," recommends Cynthia H.
Consider noise levels: Some dog-friendly campgrounds near North Haledon can be busy on weekends with music and group activities. "There is a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers. Quiet time at night is laughable as the enjoyment of being in nature rages on into the early morning," observes Steve W. at Beaver Pond.
Choose sites strategically: Request sites away from main trails or activity centers for more privacy with children and pets. "Our site is a trailer site, it's perfect for the trusty old pop-up, and feels nice and roomy. Although no site offers electric or water hook up, camp amenities include: a moderately stocked store, public bath houses, a laundry facility, playground for the kids," notes Steve W.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup planning: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides extended water access. "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.
Electric requirements: RV campers should verify amperage availability when booking sites. "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, 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. Water and electric hookups and a dump station," states Jeff W.
Cell service limitations: Many dog-friendly campgrounds in the North Haledon region have limited connectivity. "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! 2 teenage girls had a blast in the lake and riding their bikes around," shares Jojo P. about Panther Lake.
Legend
