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Camping near Paterson, NJ

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    State parks and forests within an hour of Paterson, New Jersey provide a surprising variety of camping experiences despite the urban setting. Harriman State Park's Beaver Pond Campground, located about 30 miles north in New York, offers tent and RV sites with electric hookups in a forested setting. Closer to Paterson, Campgaw Mountain Reservation provides more primitive camping with fewer amenities but free access. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, approximately 45 miles west, features both developed campgrounds and boat-in primitive sites along the river. Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City stands as one of the few urban camping options, primarily serving RVers who want proximity to New York City.

    Camping regulations vary significantly between New Jersey and New York state parks, with alcohol prohibited at some locations like Beaver Pond but permitted at others. Many campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically from April through October, requiring advance reservations during summer weekends. As one camper noted, "Stokes is nestled in a beautiful part of New Jersey and it's just remote enough that you can get away from the crowds and activity while still being in a short driving distance of restaurants, grocery stores, etc." Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region, particularly in the more remote areas. Cell service can be spotty in the highlands and valleys west of Paterson, though coverage improves at campgrounds closer to urban areas.

    Lakefront sites receive consistently positive reviews across the region's campgrounds. At High Point State Park, campers appreciate the "large sites around Sawmill Lake" that provide privacy despite being in a popular recreation area. The boat-in sites along the Delaware River offer a more secluded experience, with one visitor describing Namanock Island as having "tons of room to enjoy your camping trip... Once night falls the absence of light sources beyond your camp remind you that you are truly alone in the wilderness." Families tend to favor campgrounds with amenities like showers and flush toilets, while more experienced campers seek out primitive sites with fewer neighbors. Wildlife sightings, including deer, various birds, and occasionally bears, are commonly reported at campgrounds throughout the region.

    Best Campgrounds near Paterson (115)

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      1. Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park

      4.2(41)23mi from Paterson129 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Drive-in tent campgrounds. Adequate restroom facilities sprinkled amongst tent sites. Some campsites have raised platforms. All sites have picnic tables and fire ring with flip-top grill."

      "The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out."

      from $21 - $24 / night

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      2. Liberty Harbor RV Park

      3.8(16)15mi from Paterson1 siteRVs

      "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."

      "Basicly a parking lot, but the location can't be beat. 2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you yyo manhatten."

      from $145 - $180 / night

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      3. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation

      4.6(19)22mi from PatersonRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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. They are wooded and large."

      "It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities."

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      4. Camp Glen Gray

      5.0(2)11mi from PatersonRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Trading Post for treats and other items."

      "Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions"

      from $5 - $200 / night

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      5. Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park

      4.7(6)18mi from Paterson40 sitesTents, Cabins

      "It is a step up from cabin camping. They also have a beach behind it."

      "This place is only an hour away from NYC with so much to do and see. These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge."

      from $74 - $130 / night

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      6. Campgaw Mountain Reservation

      3.0(1)10mi from PatersonTents
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      7. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park

      5.0(6)21mi from PatersonTents, Cabins

      "This was beautiful campground with an even nicer lake. You are able to do a hike around the lake."

      "Great trails to hike for novices looking to branch out but not too large that you'll be lost forever lol highly recommend and can't do so enough 👍🏽"

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      8. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #1

      4.0(1)13mi from PatersonTents

      "Stonetown Circular trail is a 11 mile medium/high difficulty loop trail. This is the first of two primitive sites along the trail. The trailhead is across the street from a large parking lot."

      9. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2

      4.0(1)15mi from PatersonTents

      "Stonetown Circular trail is a 11 mile medium/high difficulty loop trail. This is the second of two primitive sites along the trail. The trailhead is across the street from a large parking lot."

      10. Croton Point Park

      3.7(10)24mi from PatersonRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but thats what make it unique experience! Bathrooms with shower is near by and has plenty porta potties all around."

      "Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!"

      from $30 - $60 / night

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    Recent Camping Photos near Paterson, NJ

    419 Photos of 115 Paterson Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers

    Recent Reviews near Paterson, NJ

    741 Reviews of 115 Paterson Campgrounds

    • K
      Sep. 9, 2026

      Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground

      Check site photos first

      Definitely a wide variety of sites—look at the site pictures before booking—there are two areas where it’s just an open field with bonfires and picnic tables that I’d avoid. I could see a large group going there or something but personally it doesn’t offer any privacy.

      BUT if you book one of the other sites that DOES have privacy you’ll be in camping heaven. The “hike in” sites are more like “walk-in,” I was worried at first but it’s some are as little as a few yards from the road. The most annoying part was lugging the cooler back and forth, but totally worth it

    • K
      Sep. 8, 2026

      Stephens State Park Campground

      Great last min getaway

      Booked the day before—even on the holiday weekend! Just 1.5 hours outside of NYC, site was a bit close to the neighbors (fire pit was very far back and basically in the neighbors’ campsite, but we put up a “privacy clothesline” and hung a tarp over it for a bit of extra coverage.

      The staff was friendly and helpful, they said it was the busiest they’ve seen the campground all year (there were lots of large groups but everyone seemed to settle down by 9:30pm

      Poison ivy was EVERYWHERE at our site so make sure to stick to the open areas and the paths. Lots of families around, we felt very safe Bathrooms were fine—it was my impression they’re usually cleaner but the high traffic of the weekend left a bit to be desired, (lots of families around=dirty diapers in the bathroom trash bin) but it’s camping! I’m not gonna argue w a flushing toilet!

    • KThe Dyrt Pro User
      Aug. 24, 2026

      Tri-State RV Park

      A place to stay in an area lacking campgrounds.

      This area seems to be devoid of campgrounds except for this one. It’s basically just a large parking lot with hook ups. Completely open, which is great for Starlink. Bathrooms were slightly above average; fairly clean and places to hang clothes for your shower. Has a laundry but be sure to bring quarters. It is about 100 yards from the interstate so you’ll get a lot of noise and diesel exhaust fumes.

    • Sue B.The Dyrt Pro User
      Aug. 23, 2026

      Delaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA

      Great off season camping

      We camped here in our pop up for our Anniversary in November. We were impressed with the cleanliness and available amenities for the time of year we were camping in! Close proximity to DWG and PA AND NJ attractions.

    • JThe Dyrt Pro User
      Aug. 22, 2026

      Delaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA

      Large sites & friendly staff!

      Another great experience. Sites were large. Staff was friendly with many different things for kids to do. Great base camp for local hikes.

    • JThe Dyrt Pro User
      Aug. 11, 2026

      Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park

      Bare bones

      No hookups. It was wooded, quiet and dark at night. I used the dump station on my way out. The first time I ever saw a poop fountain. The sewer opening sticks up above ground level. The cover swivels away, so I couldn't put it on top of my hose. And then, when I tried to rinse it, there was nowhere for it to go, because the inlet is elevated.

    • Deiludi P.
      Aug. 10, 2026

      Kittatinny Campground

      AWFUL

      We reserved for a day. Very bad service. The river is super dirty and they did not even clean the trash cans. Besides, the fire ring has no grill cooking grate, so if you don’t bring your own NO GRILLING. Ryan was the person in front that took care of us, he was rude, my kids felt weird because he was not welcoming at all. Also, we try to ask for a partial refund since we did not felt comfortable since the beginning, and they said NO. We have experience camping, but this one was simply THE WORST. We lost the money but we won’t put our kids in a difficult situation. Thanks.

    • Coll G.
      Aug. 3, 2026

      Camp Taylor Campground

      Privacy & quiet hours are king

      We’ve been to Camp Taylor twice now for tent camping: September 2021 and May 2023. We stayed at the rustic tent sites both times, and there was room for 2 cars and 2 tents. Depending on how you want your setup, there are some that are more secluded and others that are close together and would be great for group camping.

      The staff are all lovely and take the time to explain the rules both in-person at check-in and on the forms they provide at the time of booking. They are not hiding how seriously they take rules like quiet hours, and it will keep campers like me coming back. If you are respectful of the folks around you and especially during the posted quiet hours, you will have no problems.

      The office and shop keep supply of snacks, firewood, and gifts. There are flush toilets mapped in spots of the tent sites (SUCH a pleasant surprise! I was expecting a porta-potty or vault toilet), and hot showers are available at the same complex as the office.

    Guide to Paterson

    Camping areas near Paterson, New Jersey range from 300 to 1,500 feet in elevation across the NJ Highlands and nearby New York state. The region receives approximately 48 inches of annual precipitation, creating seasonal waterfalls and streams that campers can visit year-round. Most camping locations operate from April through October with limited wintertime options due to snowfall and freezing conditions.

    What to do

    Hiking at Stonetown Circular Trail: The 11-mile loop offers primitive camping at two locations. "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," notes Ethan K. about the first primitive site.

    Swimming at Sebago Lake: The beach area provides summer recreation opportunities. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," according to Ethan K. who visited Sebago Cabin Camp.

    Wildlife watching: Many campgrounds report deer sightings throughout the region. At Beaver Pond Campground, Steve W. describes, "A quick 40 minutes north of NYC, Harriman State Park has an eclectic little campground called Beaver Pond. Welcome to Bear Mountain grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness!"

    What campers like

    Platform camping: Raised tent platforms provide comfort during wet conditions. "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," explains Ethan K. about Beaver Pond Campground.

    Rustic cabins for easy access: For those who want minimal setup with basic amenities. "These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge," says Sara P. about Sebago Cabin Camp.

    Quiet weekday camping: Off-peak visits provide a more peaceful experience. "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," notes Rebecca S. who visited Beaver Pond Campground.

    What you should know

    Bear safety requirements: Proper food storage is essential throughout the region. "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping," advises Kelvin about Beaver Pond Campground.

    Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close during winter months. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, campers can expect "Large wooded campsites with electric and water. It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities," according to Jeff W.

    Limited cell service: Coverage varies greatly between urban and rural sites. "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING," reports Sara P. about her stay at Sebago Cabin Camp.

    Tips for camping with families

    Accessible activities: Short hikes suitable for children. At Camp Glen Gray, Christopher M. shares, "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions."

    Look for dedicated facilities: Some campgrounds offer specific family amenities. "They have a beach. Their staff is friendly. I love going here," explains Adaly about Beaver Pond Campground, which charges just $15 for camping.

    Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds maintain strict quiet hours while others don't. At Beaver Pond, Steve W. notes, "Quiet time at night is laughable as the enjoyment of being in nature rages on into the early morning."

    Tips from RVers

    City access options: RV sites with transit connections to NYC. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, Keith and Tia S. explain, "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."

    RV size limitations: Many campsites near Paterson have size restrictions. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," reports Nancymike K. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.

    Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary between campgrounds. "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," mentions antruze at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are there any RV campgrounds near Paterson, New Jersey?

    Mahlon Dickerson Reservation is an excellent RV option near Paterson, featuring paved, mostly level campsites with water and electric hookups plus a dump station. The spacious, wooded sites can accommodate RVs, and the location in the Skylands region offers convenient access to hiking trails and outdoor activities. Great Divide Campground near Newton is another RV-friendly option with scenic surroundings including a small lake and pond. For those needing proximity to NYC while still having RV accommodations, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers big-rig-friendly sites with basic amenities and easy access to urban attractions.

    Are there cabin camping options near Paterson?

    Yes, several cabin options are available within reasonable driving distance of Paterson. Sebago Cabin Camp in Harriman State Park offers rustic cabins surrounded by beautiful forest and lake settings. These cabins provide a more comfortable camping experience while still immersing you in nature. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center also offers cabin accommodations with access to outdoor activities. For those willing to travel a bit further, Camp Glen Gray provides cabin options in a wooded setting with various amenities. Reservations are recommended for all cabin facilities, especially during peak summer months.

    What tent camping parks are available near Paterson?

    Several excellent tent camping options are available within driving distance of Paterson. Stokes State Forest offers multiple camping areas including the Steam Mill Camping Area with 27 primitive sites perfect for tents or small trailers. The forest provides a remote feel while still being accessible to amenities. High Point State Park Campground features beautiful lakeside tent sites with excellent hiking opportunities, including access to the Appalachian Trail and the highest point in New Jersey. Both parks offer wooded sites, hiking trails, and water recreation opportunities, making them ideal for tent campers looking to escape the urban environment of Paterson.

    What amenities are available at Camp Paterson?

    There is no specific "Camp Paterson" listed in the available camping databases or reviews. If you're looking for camping amenities near Paterson, New Jersey, Stephens State Park Campground offers a lovely setting with basic amenities, though it may not be suitable for larger RVs and has pet restrictions in certain areas. Alternatively, Campgaw Mountain Reservation provides camping opportunities with toilet facilities and is reservable. For the most accurate and up-to-date information about camping facilities specifically in Paterson, it would be best to contact the Paterson Parks and Recreation Department or check their official website.

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