Harriman State Park offers pet-friendly camping options for visitors from Ridgewood, New Jersey, situated approximately one hour's drive from the city. The park covers over 47,500 acres with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,300 feet, creating varied terrain accessible to dogs and their owners. Camping areas accommodate both tent and RV campers with seasonal availability from April through October when temperatures average 65-85°F in summer months.
What to do
Off-season visits for solitude: At Beaver Pond Campground, weekday trips outside peak summer season provide a more tranquil experience. "Quiet, off-season, mid-week retreat... the campground was clean and quiet... 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," reports Rebecca S.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water bodies within a short drive offer fishing for various species. "If you are into fishing, there are another lake and two ponds that our neighbor campers said were great for catching panfish - one fisherman said he had caught several bass weighing over 3 pounds," notes a visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground.
Primitive backpacking: For more adventurous pet owners, the Stonetown Circular trail offers challenging hiking and primitive camping. "This site is about 4 miles into the hike... right next to a flowing stream with fresh water. The site is marked by a sign on a tree that says 'The Island'. This is a pretty spread out site with plenty of level space to set up multiple tents," explains Ethan K.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Elevated platforms at Beaver Pond provide practical benefits that many pet owners appreciate. "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. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained," explains Ethan K.
Communal amenities: Pet owners appreciate the convenience of shared facilities. "I also particularly enjoyed the communal sink which made it very convenient and easy to wash dishes and fill up water," notes a Beaver Pond visitor, while another mentions, "Full bathrooms and slop sinks throughout the campsite."
Cabin options: Sebago Cabin Camp provides rustic shelter for those who prefer not to tent camp with pets. "These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge," explains Sara P., who adds "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING."
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Bears are active in the area, requiring proper food storage when camping with pets. "Welcome to Bear Mountain grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness... He's nice, but you can tell he's given this welcome speech too many times to get overly excited about it. 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," shares Steve W.
Limited utilities: Most campgrounds have basic amenities but limited hookups. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "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. Trash dumpster is an easy walk and the dump station has a flush hose point."
Capacity restrictions: During peak season, facilities like beaches may limit access. "On July 4th, my partner and I tried to go to the beach, but were told it was at capacity at 3 different points throughout the day... Just frustrating to deal with as it didn't seem like a clear system," reports a visitor to Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly options: Several pet-friendly sites near Ridgewood offer affordable camping rates. "This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. They have a beach. Their staff is friendly. I love going here," shares a Beaver Pond visitor, adding it costs "just $15."
Activity planning: Croton Point Park offers family-oriented amenities with pet access. "This must be one of the most breathtaking camp grounds (family friendly) right on the Hudson with beach and trails. 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," notes Anil S.
Site selection strategy: Research individual sites before booking to ensure pet comfort. "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site... I highly recommend this place but check out the sites online to get one that is private," advises a camper at Clarence Fahnestock.
Tips from RVers
Urban access options: For those seeking pet-friendly camping with city proximity, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers urban convenience at higher cost. "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," notes Joe R., adding that "Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless."
Site spacing considerations: Most pet-friendly RV sites have limited privacy. "Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door," explains Emily L. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Weather preparedness: The varied terrain creates microclimates requiring adaptable gear. "The sites can be a bit tight, at times and you may find a few visitors, not necessarily on two legs, but always a delight," notes an experienced Beaver Pond camper, recommending diverse camping styles from "tent platform, tent camping, tarp, and now hammock camping."
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