Camping sites near Pompton Plains, New Jersey range from primitive backcountry spots to developed campgrounds with amenities. The area sits within the Highlands region at elevations between 200-1000 feet, creating varied terrain for different camping experiences. Most campgrounds in this region experience typical Northeast seasonal changes with camping season running April through October, though weather can extend or shorten these timeframes.
What to do
Hiking on marked trails: Wawayanda State Park Campground provides access to numerous trails including sections of the Appalachian Trail. "Fantastic loop hike near some amazing hidden lakes. One downside is there were obviously people who had visited and didn't understand what LEAVE NO TRACE means," notes a visitor who plans to bring a trash bag on future hikes.
Kayaking and water activities: The lakes and ponds throughout the region offer water recreation opportunities during summer months. A camper at Sebago Cabin Camp advised: "Ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire or other outdoor set up. Don't expect to swim on site - go to Lake Welch near by!"
Winter sports: Some camping areas convert to winter recreation destinations during off-season. Campgaw Mountain Reservation transforms into a ski area when temperatures drop, though one camper notes the campground itself can be "busy but lonely" with "super popular hiking trails that run right through all the camps."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Camp Glen Gray earns praise for its rustic isolation. "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 satisfied camper.
Clean facilities: Beaver Pond Campground receives consistent positive feedback about maintenance. "The campground was clean and quiet. RV hook-ups, tent platforms, and rustic tent sites were available. Our rustic tent site had a few good options for pitching a tent, as well as picnic table and fire ring," reports one visitor during off-season.
Wildlife viewing: While requiring proper precautions, the natural setting offers wildlife observation opportunities. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, a camper mentioned: "We had a great time. Only issue was a skunk that visited our campsite multiple times in one night. Was not afraid of humans."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Bear activity is common throughout the region. A visitor to Beaver Pond Campground noted, "'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... and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area. I mean, we are in Bear Mountain, what do you expect?!?"
Limited cellular coverage: Plan accordingly for spotty or nonexistent phone service. A camper at Wawayanda State Park reported: "No phone service at campsite, but could get phone service by the kayak hut or the main entrance."
Permit requirements: Several sites require advance permits or reservations. Campgaw Mountain Reservation requires permits for all overnight stays, while other parks have specific booking windows that open months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Look for specialized activities: Some campgrounds offer organized programming for children. At Panther Lake Camping Resort, one visitor mentioned their "2 teenage girls had a blast in the lake and riding their bikes around. Pool was packed so didn't spend time there but the ceramic class was fun for the girls."
Choose campgrounds with playground access: Harriman State Park's Beaver Pond Campground includes family-friendly amenities. "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," notes one parent.
Consider camping cabins: For families new to camping, cabin options provide comfort with outdoor experience. "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," reports a Camp Glen Gray visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, RV sites are paved but vary in quality. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," notes one RVer about the convenience.
Water hookup planning: Some campgrounds have unusual water hookup systems. "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," explains a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson.
Seasonal considerations: Many RV-friendly campgrounds near Pompton Plains have limited operating seasons. "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. Water and electric hookups and a dump station," says an RVer who found the off-season experience enjoyable.
