Camping options near Paramus extend beyond the immediate area into nearby New Jersey and New York state parks. Located in Bergen County at around 50 feet above sea level, Paramus experiences typical Northeast seasonal changes with summer highs in the 80s and winter lows below freezing. Fall camping offers ideal temperatures in the 60s with vibrant foliage displays throughout nearby Ramapo Mountains and Hudson Highlands.
What to do
Hiking at Pelton Pond: Fahnestock State Park offers a 1.5-mile hiking loop accessible directly from campsites. "The Pelton Pond hike loop" provides a moderate trail experience with "the soft sounds of bullfrogs at night," according to Jess M.
Swimming at Canopus Lake: Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground maintains a beach area with concessions during summer months. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful," notes Courtney D.
NYC sightseeing: For campers wanting to explore the city, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers convenient access. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," explains Joe R., while Emily L. adds it's "close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers separated camping areas. "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods a bit from the pad that you park on," reports Greg S. Many campers appreciate the natural separation between sites.
Primitive camping with water access: Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2 offers backcountry options. "This is a nice spot to set up camp because it is right next to a flowing stream with fresh water," explains Ethan K., who adds the site "is marked by a sign on a tree that says 'The Island'."
Off-season tranquility: Busy campgrounds become peaceful during weekdays and after summer. "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," shares Rebecca S. about her September stay at Beaver Pond.
What you should know
Bear activity: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions at Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park. Steve W. recounts his check-in experience: "'Welcome to Bear Mountain' grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area."
Differing bathroom conditions: Facility quality varies widely between parks. Courtney D. found "bathrooms and dishwashing... UGH. So old and dirty!!!" at Fahnestock, while antruze at Mahlon Dickerson noted "the dump station has a flush hose point" and "the bath house was above average and heated."
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience periodic noise disruptions. Jonathan C. mentions Croton Point Park had "dance music until after 11pm" despite quiet hours starting at 10pm, calling it "great site for a party."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Croton Point Park offers family-friendly recreation areas. "There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids," reports Andrew A., while Thomas describes having a "playground within sight of our camper."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children enjoy spotting local animals at various parks. Isabel L. notes "there are lots of bunnies!" at Croton Point Park, while Anil S. warns families to "keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Paramus: Many parks welcome four-legged family members. At Campgaw Mountain Reservation, Jake R. notes "the sites themselves are fairly close to the road and there are super popular hiking trails that run right through all the camps. If you like being woken up by folks walking their dog at 7 AM, this is the spot for you."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Liberty Harbor RV Park, Keith and Tia S. advise: "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig."
Utility connections: Water access varies between campgrounds. At Mahlon Dickerson, antruze explains "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."
Navigation challenges: Some pet-friendly RV parks near Paramus have tricky approaches. Kevin A. shares about Liberty Harbor: "It was a little loud with city noises, but exactly what we expected being so close. Staff was great. Easy access with our 32 foot RV pulling our Jeep."