Paterson area campgrounds range from basic tent sites to glamping accommodations within the New Jersey Highlands, situated at elevations between 400-1,800 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most campgrounds operate from April through October with limited winter options at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking to scenic views: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, you can access Headley Overlook via well-maintained trails. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," notes one camper. The reservation features multiple interconnected trails through wooded terrain.
Water activities: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers kayak rentals and fishing opportunities on their namesake lake. "Big campground, lots of sites, nice pool, big community hot tub, boating is great, good fishing," explains a visitor. The lake water is notably clear and suitable for swimming during summer months.
Monument exploration: The highest point in New Jersey sits within driving distance of several campgrounds. "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view," explains one camper from High Point State Park. This lookout offers views spanning three states.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the private nature of High Point State Park Campground sites. "Camps are secluded from each other and most if not all have an elevated space to put tents or chairs. Each place comes with a lamp hang, a fire pit, and a picnic table," notes a recent visitor.
Tent platforms: Elevated wooden platforms at several campgrounds keep tents dry during wet weather. "Campsite and lean to was clean. Fire pit with grill and picnic table," mentions a Mahlon Dickerson visitor. These platforms measure approximately 12x12 feet at many sites.
Rustic cabins: Camp Glen Gray offers a traditional camp experience with basic cabin accommodations. "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," explains a visitor. The camp maintains its historic character from its Boy Scout camp origins.
What you should know
Site accessibility: At Round Valley State Park Campground, primitive sites require significant effort to reach. "Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon...it is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping(a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles—or if you come with your own boat," explains a visitor.
Varied terrain: Many campgrounds feature steep terrain requiring good footwear. "Campgrounds have lots of hills so be prepared to hike up and down," warns a Great Divide Campground visitor. Sites on inclines may make tent setup challenging.
Seasonal operations: Most facilities close during winter months. Great Divide Campground operates "May 1 - Oct 14" according to their official season dates, while other properties have similar schedules. Panther Lake operates "Apr 1 to Nov 1" annually.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Great Divide Campground offers structured recreation for children. "Lots of weekend activities...Nice small lake with boats to use. Nice small beach," notes one visitor. Their staffed recreation program runs weekends during peak summer months.
Bear safety: Multiple campgrounds require proper food storage due to local black bear populations. "Bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys," mentions a Mahlon Dickerson visitor. Campgrounds provide bear-proof containers at some sites.
Yurt options: For families seeking yurt camping near Paterson, New Jersey, several campgrounds offer these accommodations. "Jake from the Dyrt here! The Moon Valley Campground is an awesome spot for those who want to camp in luxury, with their awesome dome structures," explains a reviewer. These circular structures provide solid protection from weather.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites often have specific advantages worth requesting. "Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection. Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point," explains a Mahlon Dickerson RVer.
Hook-up access: Water connections require planning at some campgrounds. "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that," notes one RVer about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. Some sites require 75-100 feet of hose to reach connections.
Navigation: Larger rigs face challenges at certain campgrounds. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill," reports a Mahlon Dickerson visitor, indicating this property accommodates larger vehicles despite not being marketed as "big-rig friendly."
