RV camping options near Pompton Lakes, New Jersey provide convenient access to both wilderness and urban attractions. Located in the northern Highlands region at approximately 200 feet elevation, this area features rolling hills, lakes, and mixed hardwood forests. Year-round camping is available at select campgrounds, though winter access may require calling ahead to confirm availability during seasonal closures.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation in Jefferson features multiple nature trails with water features. "There are plenty of trails, water (creeks, pond, lake) views and even if the place is packed there is PLENTY of room," notes a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
NYC day trips: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers urban exploration opportunities within an hour's drive. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," reports a camper at Beaver Pond Campground.
Beach activities: Seasonal swimming at Welch Lake provides summer recreation options. "A stones throw from NYC this beautiful area combines Lake Welch and Harriman State Park. This camp ground is laid back away from the busy activity of the big city. The beach is secured with lifeguards and shower and bathroom facilities are available."
What campers like
Easy city access: RV campers appreciate the proximity to New York City attractions. "This is a pricey park, but options are limited. As in almost non existent. This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," explains a visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds provide well-separated camping areas. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor."
Farm atmosphere: Pleasant Acres offers a unique agricultural setting with animals. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool. Weekend was busy as usual but during the week it seems to be seasonal that stay," notes a camper at Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort.
What you should know
Traffic noise varies: Some campgrounds experience highway noise disruptions. "Located just off the highway so lots of vehicle noise 24/7. Sites are on a gravel lot. Restrooms are clean. Not much else to say about this CG, is just a parking lot with hookups," reports a visitor to Tri-State RV Park.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "We didn't need to use our hose at all, just the filter. If you want to decompress and get out in the woods, this is a great spot. There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys."
Reservation planning: Booking early is essential, particularly for weekend stays. "During summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great. Expect to purchase firewood, although scrounging for kindling was possible."
Tips for camping with families
Platform benefits: Raised tent platforms keep gear dry 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."
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. "They offer several planned activities for kids and they have nice facilities like a great swimming pool and ping pong."
Animal interactions: Farm settings provide educational opportunities. "Upon arrival we had a bit of a mix up. Someone was planted in our assigned spot. After a phone call, all was ok. The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground," shares a camper at Black Bear RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: End-of-row sites provide additional space at some parks. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig."
Winter utilities: Off-season camping may have limited water access. "We recently had the pleasure of staying at Mountain Top and were impressed by the exceptional experience and service provided by the owners. The newly upgraded camp infrastructure elevated the stay, providing amenities for comfort and entertainment," notes a visitor to Mountain Top RV Park.
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain for certain RV sizes. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze."
