Leo C.
Scout
ScoutWinding Hills Park
Nice but dated
Nice campground, bathrooms are clean but dated, first come first serve for the sites.
Camping near Ridgewood, NJ
113 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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Camping options near Ridgewood, New Jersey range from rustic tent sites to developed facilities with cabins and RV hookups. Within a 30-mile radius, several state parks and county reservations offer established campgrounds, with Harriman State Park in nearby New York providing multiple camping areas including Beaver Pond Campground and Sebago Cabin Camp. Camp Glen Gray in New Jersey features tent sites, cabins, and glamping options, while primitive camping can be found along the Stonetown Circular trail for hikers seeking more remote experiences.
Access to many campgrounds in the region requires advance planning, especially during peak summer months when sites fill quickly. Campgaw Mountain Reservation provides free camping with a permit, though the sites are situated close to popular hiking trails. "Campgaw doesn't seem to offer much in terms of a camping experience. The sites themselves are fairly close to the road and there are super popular hiking trails that run right through all the camps," notes one camper. Most developed campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with Beaver Pond Campground typically open from April through early October. Winter camping options are limited, though some areas like Croton Point Park remain open year-round.
The primitive campsites along Stonetown Circular trail provide solitude but require preparation for a challenging hike. Campers describe the first site as having "a wide area and an amazing view" but caution about "a fairly difficult rock scramble" to reach it. For those seeking more amenities, Camp Glen Gray receives consistently positive feedback for its clean cabins and well-maintained facilities. The AMC Harriman Outdoor Center offers both cabin and platform tent camping with access to a lake for swimming and canoeing. Many campgrounds in the area feature picnic tables, fire rings, and communal water sources, with some providing electric hookups suitable for RVs. Bear activity has been reported in several areas, particularly in Harriman State Park, requiring proper food storage and waste management.
Best Campgrounds near Ridgewood (113)
1. Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park
"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 $21 - $24 / night
Check Availability2. Liberty Harbor RV Park
"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 Availability3. Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
"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 $130 / night
Check Availability4. Camp Glen Gray
"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 Availability5. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
"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 👍🏽"
6. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
"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."
7. Croton Point Park
"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
Check Availability8. Campgaw Mountain Reservation
9. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #1
"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."
10. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2
"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."
Drive Time
- 25 min from New York, NY
- 28 min from Kiryas Joel, NY
- 1 hr 6 min from Bridgeport, CT
- 1 hr 17 min from Trenton, NJ
Recent Camping Photos near Ridgewood, NJ
390 Photos of 113 Ridgewood Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Campgaw Mountain Reservation
Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park
Croton Point Park
Wawayanda Group Shelter
Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
Tentrr Signature Site - Appalachian Trail Hilltop Hideaway - Coleman Cooking Site
Moon Valley CampgroundD
Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025
Black Bear RV ParkT
Woodland Trails
Camp Gateway- Brooklyn NY - CLOSED — Gateway National Recreation Area
Ward Pound Ridge Reservation
Recent Reviews near Ridgewood, NJ
707 Reviews of 113 Ridgewood Campgrounds
Thomas B.
RangerNeversink River Resort
Cool Riverside Campground
I'll start by saying this is a site-specific review (C20). I booked using Campspot and didn't select my own site but put in the criteria for my rig (30ft TT plus truck) and got a 50A back-in spot. The site was big but abnormal. Between the picnic table placement and the trees, I ended up right around 50ft from the electric and water, and the water spigot was so low I could barely put on my camco filter. With the uneven dirt roads, I had to unhitch with my truck in a gigantic puddle (lol). The site was otherwise fine aside from my gate code not working on Day 2. As for the campground as a whole, I thought it was pretty unique place by the river that offered several good amenities and activities, like downstream river tubing, an arcade, bathroom/shower facilities, a small store, little trails, and more. I would say this place borders the more primitive side.
Edwin R.ScoutCheesequake State Park Campground
Park uses county cops to shut down park by 9pm.
On Friday, September 4, 2026, I rented a trailer and brought my family to Cheesequake State Park to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary over the extended Labor Day weekend. Around 9:20 PM—well before the park's designated 10:00 PM quiet hours—we were sitting inside our canopy, playing Jenga, and listening to low background music. Two officers from the Matawan Police Department approached our campsite. They were polite and courteous, simply offering a standard reminder to wrap things up by 10:00 PM. Before they could leave, however, a third, senior officer intervened. Wanting to"show them how it's done," he made the two polite officers return and stand by to watch as he demonstrated how to aggressively harass campers. Flashlight in hand, the senior officer approached with an immediate hostile attitude, treating us like criminals as he demanded to know who rented the site. He began reiterating rules and claimed we had too many vehicles. We had three cars, one belonging to my brother-in-law's girlfriend, who was visiting with her daughter. She had paid the$10 visitor fee at the main office and was instructed by staff to obtain the gate access code from us, the primary renters, if she got locked in. No staff member ever informed her of an 8:00 PM visitor departure deadline, leading us to reasonably assume visitors were permitted until quiet hours began at 10:00 PM. The officer rudely snapped that she had been given wrong information. The senior officer then used profanity in front of three small children, aggressively telling her to ("get her shit and get the fuck out!") in that manner or use profanity, the officer went from hostile to furious. He angrily declared that these were official violations and threatened that he could be issuing us tickets instead. Desperately searching for anything and everything to throw at us, he demanded that we turn off our idling car—which was supplying power to our campsite—and instructed us to make sure the campfire was doused before shutting down for the night. He then proceeded to shine his flashlight into our private setup—including our canopy, tents, and the inside of our trailer—searching for any other possible violation while the two polite officers were forced to watch. What was supposed to be a special 10th wedding anniversary celebration with my family was completely ruined by a senior officer misusing his authority to put on an unnecessary display of intimidation. Worse than just ruining our night, he spent that evening teaching those two police officers how to be bad cops. He corrupted two officers in real time, demonstrating firsthand exactly why most people have lost faith in the police force. The next day we was ready for them. We turned off our lights and quietly by the fire while they went next door to harass an asian family that had just set up camp and had their leds lights on.
- eedgar V.Scout
Black Bear RV Park
Super clean and quiet
Past reviews has mentioned that the office seems to be closed often, while I found that to be true I had no reason to contact anyone. This is definitely one of the cleanest quiets site I’ve ever visited
- KKelly B.
GuideClarence Fahnestock State Park Campground
Check site photos first
Definitely a wide variety of sites—look at the site pictures before booking—there are two areas where it’s just an open field with bonfires and picnic tables that I’d avoid. I could see a large group going there or something but personally it doesn’t offer any privacy.
BUT if you book one of the other sites that DOES have privacy you’ll be in camping heaven. The “hike in” sites are more like “walk-in,” I was worried at first but it’s some are as little as a few yards from the road. The most annoying part was lugging the cooler back and forth, but totally worth it
- KKelly B.Guide
Stephens State Park Campground
Great last min getaway
Booked the day before—even on the holiday weekend! Just 1.5 hours outside of NYC, site was a bit close to the neighbors (fire pit was very far back and basically in the neighbors’ campsite, but we put up a “privacy clothesline” and hung a tarp over it for a bit of extra coverage.
The staff was friendly and helpful, they said it was the busiest they’ve seen the campground all year (there were lots of large groups but everyone seemed to settle down by 9:30pm
Poison ivy was EVERYWHERE at our site so make sure to stick to the open areas and the paths. Lots of families around, we felt very safe Bathrooms were fine—it was my impression they’re usually cleaner but the high traffic of the weekend left a bit to be desired, (lots of families around=dirty diapers in the bathroom trash bin) but it’s camping! I’m not gonna argue w a flushing toilet!
- KKevin F.
TravelerTri-State RV Park
A place to stay in an area lacking campgrounds.
This area seems to be devoid of campgrounds except for this one. It’s basically just a large parking lot with hook ups. Completely open, which is great for Starlink. Bathrooms were slightly above average; fairly clean and places to hang clothes for your shower. Has a laundry but be sure to bring quarters. It is about 100 yards from the interstate so you’ll get a lot of noise and diesel exhaust fumes.
- JJoyceScout
Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park
Bare bones
No hookups. It was wooded, quiet and dark at night. I used the dump station on my way out. The first time I ever saw a poop fountain. The sewer opening sticks up above ground level. The cover swivels away, so I couldn't put it on top of my hose. And then, when I tried to rinse it, there was nowhere for it to go, because the inlet is elevated.
Deiludi P.ScoutKittatinny Campground
AWFUL
We reserved for a day. Very bad service. The river is super dirty and they did not even clean the trash cans. Besides, the fire ring has no grill cooking grate, so if you don’t bring your own NO GRILLING. Ryan was the person in front that took care of us, he was rude, my kids felt weird because he was not welcoming at all. Also, we try to ask for a partial refund since we did not felt comfortable since the beginning, and they said NO. We have experience camping, but this one was simply THE WORST. We lost the money but we won’t put our kids in a difficult situation. Thanks.
Guide to Ridgewood
Camping options near Ridgewood, New Jersey span across northern New Jersey and southern New York, with campsites nestled within the Ramapo Mountains at elevations ranging from 400 to 1,300 feet. The area features deciduous forest terrain with oak, maple and hickory trees, creating seasonal camping experiences that vary dramatically from summer's dense canopy to fall's colorful displays. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F while summer averages 70-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Swimming in natural settings: At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, visitors have access to a peaceful lake for swimming and boating. "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity," notes Ethan K., who recommends hiking around the lake perimeter for additional scenic views.
Disc golf courses: Campgaw Mountain Reservation offers disc golf among its recreational options, making it a versatile day activity when not hiking. The course is accessible from campsites, allowing campers to easily mix outdoor activities during their stay.
Seasonal beach activities: Croton Point Park features a private beach with lifeguards on duty from Wednesday through the weekend during summer months. "Short 5 minute drive to nearby supermarket to pick up food or firewood," adds Anil S., who recommends the beach for families looking for swimming options along the Hudson River.
What campers like
Private, elevated sites: Many campers appreciate the platform tent sites available at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, particularly for weather protection. "They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt," explains Christina L., who recommends site 7 for tent campers despite the uphill carry.
Communal facilities: At Beaver Pond Campground, campers highlight practical amenities that make extended stays comfortable. "I particularly enjoyed the communal sink which made it very convenient and easy to wash dishes and fill up water," writes Ethan K., who also notes how the spread-out campsites create privacy even when the campground is busy.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Natural encounters are common at several campgrounds in the region. "Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," reports Megan B. about Beaver Pond, while others mention rabbit sightings at Croton Point Park and beaver watching at the AMC Harriman Center.
What you should know
Rock scrambles to primitive sites: The Stonetown Circular trail Primitive site requires proper preparation for challenging access. "The only difficult thing about this site is that it is at the top of a fairly difficult rock scramble. I would advise packing light if making camp at this site because a heavy pack would make this scramble up the mountain even harder," cautions Ethan K.
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby rail lines. At Croton Point Park, Jonathan C. reports: "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm. Great site for a party, try to stay away from this end of the site or choose a site away from other bookings if you'd like quiet."
Seasonal booking patterns: Off-season camping offers different experiences than peak summer months. "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," shares Rebecca S. about Beaver Pond Campground, recommending Thursday nights in September for quiet camping experiences.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Camp Glen Gray receives high marks for family accommodations with clean facilities. "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 Christopher M., highlighting the convenience for families needing supplies.
Playground access: Croton Point Park features a playground within sight of RV sites, making it convenient for parents to monitor children while setting up camp. "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper," notes Thomas.
Educational opportunities: Several campsites offer historical attractions nearby. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, families can easily access the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. "My wife visited Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The sites had electric and water and were in a fenced off section of the marina parking area," explains Kevin A.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RVers at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation appreciate the campground layout. "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," notes antruze, addressing a practical concern for RV setups.
Transit access to NYC: For RVers wanting to combine camping with city exploration, location matters. "This is a great spot with views of Manhattan, Statue of Liberty, etc. Expect to pay pretty good to be here, but from here you can pretty much easily get anywhere in NYC," shares John G. about Liberty Harbor RV Park, which sits near public transportation options.
Campsite sizes and maneuvering: Knowing vehicle limitations helps with site selection. "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, confirming accessibility for larger recreational vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Ridgewood Campground located and how do I find it?
Where is Ridgewood Campground located and how do I find it?
Ridgewood Campground is located in the scenic Skylands region of New Jersey. For similar camping experiences in this area, you can visit Mahlon Dickerson Reservation which offers wooded, spacious sites with paved, mostly level pads ideal for camping vehicles. Another option is High Point State Park Campground, situated in the same Skylands region. These campgrounds provide excellent access points for exploring the natural beauty of northern New Jersey, with hiking and biking trails connecting directly to the campsites. Most campgrounds in this region are accessible via well-maintained roads suitable for both cars and RVs.
What amenities and facilities are available at Ridgewood Campground?
What amenities and facilities are available at Ridgewood Campground?
Campgrounds in the Ridgewood area typically offer a variety of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Stephens State Park Campground provides basic facilities with some sites suitable for smaller camping vehicles, though larger RVs may find access challenging. For water activities, Sandyston Boat In Campsites in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers unique waterfront access. Most campgrounds in the region provide toilet facilities, with many also offering water hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. Some locations have dump stations, electrical hookups, and shower facilities. Amenities vary significantly between primitive sites and more developed campgrounds, so check specific campground details before your visit.
Are there any seasonal closures or best times to visit Ridgewood Campground?
Are there any seasonal closures or best times to visit Ridgewood Campground?
The best time to visit campgrounds in the Ridgewood area is typically late spring through early fall when weather conditions are optimal. Stokes State Forest and other public campgrounds in the region generally operate seasonally, with most facilities closing during winter months (November through March). Great Divide Campground offers a longer camping season as a private facility. Summer weekends tend to be busiest, so consider mid-week visits for a quieter experience. Fall camping is especially popular when the foliage changes color, creating spectacular views throughout the area. Always check official websites for current opening dates as they may vary year to year based on weather conditions and maintenance schedules.
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