The Pompton Lakes area sits at an elevation of around 200 feet above sea level in the Highlands region of northern New Jersey, where the Pequannock, Wanaque, and Ramapo Rivers merge. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, making most campgrounds in the area seasonal operations that close between late October and early April. Summer camping sees average highs in the mid-80s with moderate humidity.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park offers access to Lake Welch, where campers can enjoy water recreation. "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," notes Steve W., who found the location convenient at "about 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park."
Winter skiing access: Great Divide Campground provides a base camp for winter sports enthusiasts when open during ski season. Campers appreciate the location's proximity to regional ski areas and the hiking trails that double as cross-country routes in winter. "We hiked the golf cart trails which are beautiful and go throughout the woods," mentions Jojo P., adding that there are "lots of hills so bikes are hard to use."
Trail exploration: At Wawayanda State Park Campground, hikers can access portions of the Appalachian Trail and several other hiking paths. "Fantastic loop hike near some amazing hidden lakes," reports Meredith C., though she cautions that visitors should "bring a trashbag" as some previous hikers didn't follow Leave No Trace principles.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers well-spaced sites with natural screening. Christina L. notes, "The sites are very large and I suggest site 7. It is on a hill so have a hand truck or a few people to carry stuff. Trust me it is worth it and I think it's the best tent site they have." Jeff W. adds that the "county park has large, wooded campsites with electric and water. It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails."
Off-grid camping access: Stonetown Circular Trail primitive sites provide a true backcountry experience near Pompton Lakes. Ethan K. describes the first site as having "a wide area and an amazing view. You will find the site right next to the American Flag at the top of the mountain." He notes that reaching the site requires "a fairly difficult rock scramble" and advises "packing light if making camp at this site because a heavy pack would make this scramble up the mountain even harder."
Facilities for extended stays: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers amenities that make longer visits comfortable. Richard V. describes "a nice pool, big community hot tub, boating is great, good fishing, nice playground, basketball court and great amenities." For families, Ethan K. notes, "The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake."
What you should know
Water management: At Great Divide Campground, water access points require planning. "Each site had a water spout and electric plug in," mentions Ethan K., but also notes that "you are not allowed to keep your car at your site. You have to drop your supplies off and drive it back to the parking lot which was slightly annoying."
Primitive site challenges: Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2 offers natural rewards but requires preparation. "This site is about 4 miles into the hike. This is a nice spot to set up camp because it is right next to a flowing stream with fresh water," reports Ethan K., who adds, "The trail loop is definitely a difficult hike and setting up camp at one of the two sites is a nice way to break up adventure."
Wildlife encounters: Bear activity is common in the region. Steve W. from Beaver Pond Campground recounts, "'Welcome to Bear Mountain' grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... 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."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: Sebago Cabin Camp provides child-friendly swimming areas. Sara P. notes, "There's a few very cute small towns nearby with surprisingly modern restaurants and friendly people. In the same state park (Harriman) is several other lakes for swimming, hiking, and paddle boating (up the road.)" Katharine T. recommends, "Ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire out other outdoor set up. Don't expect to swim on site- go to Lake Welch near by!"
Weekend activities: Panther Lake Camping Resort schedules regular events for children. "They offer both RV and primitive camping. The grounds were fairly large and each campsite gets their own space with decent privacy," shares Ethan K., while Cynthia H. explains it's a "fun camping place to book groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Pompton Lakes: Many local campgrounds accommodate pets with specific amenities. John S. describes Mahlon Dickerson Reservation as the "best place I have ever been and plenty to do near by," making it suitable for families with dogs. Paulene-Amanda M. adds, "My fiancé, dog, and I have been going here for over 2 years and we love it. The campground is small but also secluded. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful."
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookups: Great Divide Campground provides power connections but with limitations. Jesse C. calls it "beautiful, clean, well maintained, lots to do, great value for your $," while Stacey R. recommends specific areas: "The W loop is by far our favorite!!!!" For those needing power, Jojo P. notes that "spots are spacious and campers were spread out throughout the large campground."
Tight maneuvering: Most dog-friendly RV campgrounds near Pompton Lakes have size limitations. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, antruze found it "very clean and quiet. 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." Nancymike K. rated it as "easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill."
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