Camping sites near Oakland, New Jersey range from primitive trail campsites to more established campgrounds with modern amenities. The region sits within the Highlands physiographic province with elevations between 400-1,500 feet, creating varied terrain for camping experiences. Most camping areas sit on rocky, acidic soils derived from metamorphic bedrock that contributes to the diverse plant communities and wildlife habitats campers encounter.
What to do
**Hiking trails: Explore extensive trail networks at Camp Glen Gray where "lots of hiking trails" are available according to one camper who noted the "Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions."
Paddling opportunities: Take advantage of lake access at The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center where "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity."
Swimming spots: Visit Croton Point Park where "a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty" provides summer recreation options for campers looking to cool off.
Winter activities: Some camping locations transition to winter recreation areas. Campgaw Mountain Reservation offers winter skiing when camping operations close for the season, providing year-round outdoor recreation options.
What campers like
Platform camping: Many campers appreciate the raised tent platforms available at Beaver Pond Campground where "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."
Wilderness proximity: Campers value the remote feeling at Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #1 where one reviewer noted the site is "worth the scramble for the view" and found "a wide area and an amazing view" at the campsite "right next to the American Flag at the top of the mountain."
Meal options: Some campsites offer prepared food services. At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, one camper highlighted that "One highlight was having meals cooked by the stellar chef" and recommended the meal plan as "Worth the added cost."
Accessibility: Several campgrounds provide options for reaching sites without personal vehicles. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center "is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station."
What you should know
Bear awareness: Many camping areas in the region require special precautions for food storage. At Sebago Cabin Camp, campers should "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Site selection: Consider location factors when booking. At Croton Point Park, "The tent site is after the RV site, so use their LX before you get to site if you can" and "The higher number sites were closer to the RV site and the water."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Sebago Cabins typically operates during warmer months, with one camper noting "No on-site stores so pick up all your necessary essentials prior to."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience higher noise levels. One camper at Croton Point Park noted "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers family-friendly facilities. The campground is "beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities."
Site spacing: Families appreciate room to spread out. At Beaver Pond Campground, "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."
Water activities: Children enjoy the lakes available at several campgrounds. Croton Point Park features "a gorgeous camping ground right on the Hudson with beach and trails" where one camper reported having "no issues of mosquitoes."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature programs. At Beaver Pond Campground, campers can access trails that connect to "Bear Mountain State Park. Here you can find some of the Appalachian Trail, with various smaller trail heads for this historic (Revolutionary Times 1770s) part of the region."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Croton Point Park offers a mix of electric and full-hookup sites. One reviewer noted the park has "a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites" though "the FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together."
Site leveling: Most RV sites in the region are graded for easy setup. At Croton Point Park, campers found "a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level."
Length restrictions: Many campgrounds have size limitations. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation is noted as "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill."
Utility management: Some campgrounds provide assistance with utilities. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "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."
