The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App
Map showing campgrounds near Paterson, New JerseyExplore the Map

Best Campgrounds near Paterson, NJ

720 Reviews

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 Camping Sites Near Paterson, New Jersey (113)

    1. New York City North/Newburgh KOA

    40 Reviews
    Pomona, NY
    23 miles
    +1 (845) 947-2792

    $17 - $20 / night

    "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."

    2. Liberty Harbor RV Park

    15 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (201) 516-7500

    $145 - $180 / night

    "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."

    3. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation

    18 Reviews
    Jefferson, NJ
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (973) 697-3140

    "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."

    4. Camp Glen Gray

    2 Reviews
    Oakland, NJ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (201) 327-7234

    $5 - $200 / night

    "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"

    5. Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park

    6 Reviews
    Sloatsburg, NY
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 429-2039

    $130 / night

    "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."

    6. Collective Governors Island

    2 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 445-2033

    $529 - $1200 / night

    "The article also mentions the benefits of camping on Governor Island, such as feeling close to nature, relaxing and enjoying a peaceful space, away from the noise of the city."

    7. Campgaw Mountain Reservation

    1 Review
    Ramsey, NJ
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (201) 327-3500

    8. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park

    6 Reviews
    Pomona, NY
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (617) 523-0636

    "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 👍🏽"

    9. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #1

    1 Review
    Ringwood, NJ
    13 miles

    "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."

    10. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2

    1 Review
    Ringwood, NJ
    15 miles

    "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."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 113 campgrounds

2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Paterson Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Camping Photos near Paterson, NJ

415 Photos of 113 Paterson Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Paterson, NJ

720 Reviews of 113 Paterson Campgrounds

  • Sue B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 7, 2026

    Mohican Walk-In Campsites

    Great Spot for many Adventures!

    The Mohican Outdoor Center is just steps away from the Appalachian Trail in Southern New Jersey. No matter what your adventure needs, there are many different outing and lodging options. They even host training classes run in conjunction with the Appalachian Mountain Club. You can come for a day hike, there is a camp store with hiking and backpacking gear as well as helpful staff. In season, there is a chef on-site cooking delicious breakfasts and lunches. You can rent a campsite, share a cottage with others with all the amenities (shared kitchen, bathroom, etc) or rent a cabin. And if you want free camping, hop on the A.T., the nicest A.T. campsite in NJ is just a few miles south of the Mohican Center!

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 23, 2025

    Jugtown Mountain Campsites

    A decent, clean campground.

    I stopped by in early October 2025 for one night, as I was on my home from Dad's.  The place is attached to a trailer company.  Most of the good camping spots are for RV's.  There is a small area up the hill for tents.  I was the only one in the Tent area.  The restroom was clean and simple; two toilets and two sinks.

  • Nadine R.
    Dec. 10, 2025

    Stokes State Forest

    Lots to Love Here

    We stayed at a tent platform site in Shotwell camping area. The platforms could use a little maintenance as there were a few tie down hooks that were missing or corroded. The campsites are close around this loop that includes lean-tos, but not so close that you are bothered by your neighbors normal sounds. The bathroom is close and clean. There is a bear box at each campsite which gave peace of mind. Firewood is available for sale at the park office. The staff there is very welcoming. Great Jersey getaway with gorgeous hiking trails.

  • Nadine R.
    Dec. 10, 2025

    Jenny Jump State Forest

    Calm Camp, Great Trails

    This was a great weekend camping trip. Despite extreme thunderstorms both nights I'd stayed, this was still a great experience. The campsites are spaced a little close, but there is good enough separation with trees and shrubs you're not staring right at your neighbor. Everyone staying here was really friendly, and the vibes felt good and safe. Easy access to all hiking trails from this camping area. The staff works hard to maintain a clean and safe park, and had quickly cleared out fallen trees from a strong thunderstorm the night prior. This is a lovely park for solo campers or families.

  • M
    Nov. 20, 2025

    Ward Pound Ridge Reservation

    Secluded sites

    Beautiful campsites! Lots of lean to sites with fireplaces in them. You have to go in person to make a reservation and pay. The camp area is beautiful, especially in the fall. Pet friendly and kid friendly with a playground available. Our favorite site is #25. Up a hill, totally private and has a lean-to.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 2, 2025

    Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront

    Waterfront Skyline Views, Clean Bathrooms

    A little intimidating driving in to a nondescript gate at the end of a narrow street but the overall experience exceeded expectation. It’s essentially a spacious parking lot with electrical pedestals but the view of the skyline across the water is spectacular and there’s a metro station within a 10-minute walk. The area feels safe and is pedestrian friendly, even at night (we were there Halloween night and we took our kids out trick-or-treating just outside the gate). During the day, I saw another RV patron walking to do their laundry just outside the complex on the next street over (I didn’t ask where exactly). On-site bathrooms were warm and clean. There were portable showers available but beware the broken shower head holders and lack of shelving/hooks for towels & clothing. This was a minor issue considering the convenience of RV accommodations so easily accessible within the NYC region, would definitely recommend. I couldn’t find a map prior to my booking but would suggest requesting the highest number site available for best direct views.

  • Erin N.
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Tri-State RV Park

    Friendly Owners and Reasonable rates

    We just stayed the night last minute. We hit unexpected traffic on the way and the owners were kind enough to wait for us to check in. The sites aren’t anything glamorous but the hookups are great and easy to pull through. It is by the highway so it can be loud at times but I don’t mind. Beautiful river on the property. Bathroom and showers were clean and well stocked.

  • Missy R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Dingmans Campground — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

    Beautiful, wooded, campsites

    I’m stopping through for the night and so grateful that I did. This campground is lovely. The spots are wooded so you have a bit of privacy. And you are so close to activities throughout the park. I’m changing my schedule to enjoy the campground and park a bit tomorrow.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Liberty Harbor RV Park

    Functional with excellent access to the City

    Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door. We brought scooters & had a great stay! Plus you can see the Statue of Liberty from there!

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.

Keep Exploring

  4. View all New Jersey cities for camping