Camping opportunities near Paramus, New Jersey range from rustic tent platforms to full-service RV sites within an hour's drive. The region sits at the northern edge of the Piedmont plateau where elevations average 100-400 feet, transitioning to the higher Highlands region to the west. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing between December and February, making many campgrounds seasonal operations with peak usage from May through October.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: At Beaver Pond Campground, trails range from easy to challenging with connections to the historic Appalachian Trail. A camper notes, "Don't fret, trails that are rated easy and accessible to disabled are equally enjoyable and beautiful. They offer stunning views of the changing foliage, quick glances at the Hudson River and the rolling hills of the area."
Water activities: Sebago Cabin Camp features lake access for summer recreation. As one visitor shares: "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day." Swimming is restricted to designated areas with lifeguards present during summer months.
Winter sports: Some locations near Paramus offer year-round activities. Campgaw Mountain Reservation maintains winter skiing facilities adjacent to camping areas. The terrain includes disc golf courses and hiking trails that remain accessible in warmer months.
What campers like
Platform camping: Raised platforms at several sites prevent ground moisture issues. A camper at Sebago Cabin Camp mentions, "It is a step up from cabin camping. They have rustic cabins. These do not have plumbing or heat." Another camper at Beaver Pond appreciated that "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."
Urban proximity: Campsites near Paramus balance natural settings with accessibility to urban amenities. Liberty Harbor RV Park exemplifies this: "This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8." Another visitor noted it's "Very convenient location. My wife visited Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds feature active wildlife. A Beaver Pond visitor cautions, "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... He's nice, but you can tell he's given this welcome speech too many times to get overly excited about it."
What you should know
Site spacing varies dramatically: Reviews consistently mention differences in campsite proximity. At Croton Point Park, "Tent site is after the RV site... The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm." Conversely, another camper notes some areas have "sites very private with some dirt roads to exit out."
Reservation systems differ: Some locations require phone booking while others permit online reservations. For Croton Point Park, "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."
Firewood regulations: Many campgrounds restrict outside firewood to prevent pest transmission. At Campgaw Mountain, fires are permitted but firewood is not provided. Campers must purchase from approved sources rather than collecting deadwood.
Tips for camping with families
Structured activities: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers family-friendly environments with spacious sites. A visitor remarks, "Very nice forest! The campground is clean, paved nicely and well run. Our site is easily the nicest- all the way in the back with only one neighbor. It is so quiet here."
Beach access: Several locations feature swimming areas with lifeguard supervision. Beaver Pond Campground has "a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out."
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly by location. A Campgaw Mountain visitor mentions connections remain strong enough for communications, while at others service diminishes. One camper at Beaver Pond noted, "Your phone will have signal" - an important consideration for families needing to stay connected.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Mahlon Dickerson accommodates medium-sized RVs with prepared sites. A camper notes, "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station."
Urban camping limitations: Camp Glen Gray restricts vehicle access: "No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Trading Post for treats and other items." This limits RV options while providing alternatives for vehicle-based campers.
Hookup logistics: RV sites often require equipment planning. At Mahlon Dickerson, "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."
