Best Campgrounds near Old Tappan, NJ
Campgrounds near Old Tappan, New Jersey provide a mix of natural settings within reach of urban areas. Several established options exist within 30 miles, including Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park and Camp Glen Gray in New Jersey. The region includes tent and RV sites at places like Campgaw Mountain Reservation and Liberty Harbor RV Park, which offers urban camping just across from Manhattan. Many campgrounds feature cabin accommodations alongside traditional tent sites, particularly at Sebago Cabin Camp and The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, both located in Harriman State Park.
Camping availability varies seasonally, with parks like Beaver Pond Campground operating from April to October while others such as Croton Point Park remain open year-round. Permits are required at select locations like Campgaw Mountain Reservation, which offers free camping with necessary permits. Most established campgrounds provide water and toilet facilities, though amenities range from primitive sites with pit toilets to developed areas with showers and electric hookups. Road access is generally good throughout the region, with drive-in sites common at most campgrounds, though some areas offer more secluded walk-in or boat-in options. One visitor noted, "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."
Campers consistently mention privacy and spaciousness as highlights at state forest locations. Stokes State Forest receives praise for its large, wooded sites with platforms that can accommodate multiple tents. Water access represents another key feature, with several campgrounds situated near lakes or rivers. "The sites were very large and while covered by 40+ ft trees were open enough to make you wish you brought more gear and people just because it would fit," mentioned one camper about the Sandyston sites along the Delaware River. Wildlife sightings are common, with visitors reporting deer, various birds, and even bears in some locations. Noise levels vary significantly, from the quiet seclusion of forest sites to the background hum of nearby highways at campgrounds closer to urban areas. Liberty Harbor RV Park stands out for its proximity to Manhattan, offering a unique camping experience with city views rather than wilderness isolation.
