114 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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.
"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 $17 - $20 / night
Check Availability"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
Check Availability"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."
"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
Check Availability"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
Check Availability"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 👍🏽"
"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."
"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."
"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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ScoutVery nice family oriented, places the beach, which is great except for the birds watch out they come at you. They have a dog park basketball courts playground swimming just about everything.
GuideThis was by far the worst campground we have ever stayed at. First of all, the campground is basically just a large open field where everyone is on display. There is absolutely no privacy. If that's not enough and you want even more attention, choose a site near the playground, where you'll have a constant audience. The bathrooms were also extremely dirty and poorly maintained, which only added to the overall disappointing experience. The biggest issue, however, is the complete lack of quiet hours enforcement. Until at least 1:00 AM, there were screaming children, loud groups of intoxicated adults, and nonstop noise. It felt more like a chaotic party zone than a campground. There seemed to be no rules, no supervision, and no consideration for people who actually came to relax. The sites farther back in the woods offer a little more privacy, but don't expect peace and quiet there either. This campground may be fine if your goal is to drink and party outdoors, but if you're looking for a relaxing camping experience, I would strongly recommend staying elsewhere. The only positive part of our stay was seeing a few baby deer wandering through the campground. They were adorable and ended up being the highlight of our trip.
ScoutThe campsite is beautiful and lovely to walk around, the outside campground cats are the best part though ❣️
ScoutWe stopped here overnight on our way down south. Very convenient location, nice large lawn with beautiful tall shade trees, bathroom was extremely clean and you can see were just recently renovated. They had a pool and some basic playground equipment. Pet friendly. You have to enter the camping area by driving through an RV and truck storage area first. We would stay here again .
RangerI've hiked the A.T. through New Jersey, and this is probably my favorite NJ A.T. campsite. The only downside is that there is no water, so depending on which way you come in (nobo or sobo), you'll have to collect water before you get here from either Sunfish Pond, or one of the streams before the climb up here. There are 2 privies, one newer, and also a great spot to watch the sunset. Plenty of campsites, and during peak season there is a caretaker on site.
RangerWe enjoyed our first winter camping trip in our travel trailer at Stokes State Forest! The Shotwell area has trailer/tent sites as well.as enclosed mini cabins (think lean-to but with 4 walls). The bathroom is heated and kept clean. Lots of trails to explore, including the Appalachian Trail nearby! Great experience, we'll be back!
ScoutI love this location. Close to public transportation, great staff, and site security.
TravelerGoing back for Memorial Day weekend my 3rd time going and always had a great time nice place ,clean Bathroom & Shower with hot water 👍🏽convenient location easy access to campground and lake
RangerThe 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!
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.
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!"
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.
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.
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."
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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