Beyond the main recreational areas near Old Tappan, several lesser-known camping options exist within a 30-minute drive. The region's mixed hardwood forest terrain ranges from 250 to 1,100 feet elevation, creating diverse microclimates across different campgrounds. Winter camping remains available at select locations, though water systems typically shut down from November through March.
What to do
Explore waterfront recreation: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers unique water access with views of the Manhattan skyline and Statue of Liberty. "The park itself is located just an hour and a half outside of the city. This proximity is both its perk and its downfall, as the park itself, but particularly the campground, has become laden with all sorts of inexplicable and burdensome rules," notes Paul K.
Experience wilderness hiking: Stonetown Circular Trail Primitive #1 provides challenging terrain for experienced hikers. According to Ethan K., "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."
Visit local attractions: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers both camping and cultural experiences. As Anil S. describes, "This is by far one of my favorite camp site I've been to. Simply beautiful sceneries every where you turn. My family and friends stayed at the Kimberly campsite 7 on Sept, 2020 and I have to say, we couldn't ask for a better spot."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers spacious campsites with good separation. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that," reports antruze.
Year-round availability: Some parks remain open through winter months. Paul R. notes about Ward Pound Ridge: "They have great sights and are open all year round. Ive stayed in hammocks, tents, leantos, and even did a good share of car camping. All of the shelters have fire pits and some have interior fireplaces."
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer affordable rates compared to commercial sites. "This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. Theu have a beach. Their staff is friendly. I love going here," writes Adaly about Beaver Pond Campground.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some parks require in-person booking. "The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in to find out your site," explains Lee D. about Croton Point Park.
Wildlife considerations: Multiple parks report active wildlife. Anil S. warns at Croton Point: "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Facilities quality fluctuates: Bathroom conditions vary significantly between parks. "Bath/Shower house: Clean but a bit dated. No shelves or hooks for toiletries. I was surprised the door was left open all night long," reports Lee D., while Courtney D. states about Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground: "Bathrooms and dishwashing... UGH. So old and dirty!!!"
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with playgrounds: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Zorina N. recommends Beaver Pond: "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal."
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds become busy during peak periods. Jonathan C. shares about Croton Point Park: "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm. Great site for a party, try to stay away from this end of the site or choose a site away from other bookings if you'd like quiet."
Look for educational opportunities: Sebago Cabin Camp offers structured activities for kids. "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too," notes Sara P.
Tips from RVers
Power and water access: RV sites have varying hookup availability. "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," shares Ethan K.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Old Tappan: Most parks welcome pets with restrictions. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. RV hook-ups, tent platforms, and rustic tent sites were available," explains Rebecca S.
Size restrictions apply: Not all parks accommodate larger rigs. Nancymike K. notes about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation: "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N. Y. City."
Legend
