Ringwood, New Jersey sits within the Highland region at elevations between 600-1,300 feet, creating a climate that's typically 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby urban areas. The surrounding Ramapo Mountains offer a mix of hardwood forests and rocky outcroppings that provide natural windbreaks for campers. Most camping areas in the region close from November through March due to snowfall and freezing temperatures.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail access points: Several campgrounds provide direct access to the famous AT. High Point State Park Campground features multiple connecting trails. One visitor noted, "We fit in a hike up to the Appalachian Trail from our campsite, swam at the pond (Lake Marcia), and got in a fishing session at Steeny Kill Lake" (Justin P.).
Fishing at numerous lakes: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers both lake fishing and boating options for campers. The lake remains stocked throughout camping season, and visitors can rent equipment on-site. According to one camper, "Great atmosphere for families. Lake was not easy to get to due to the messy walkways and mud" (April L.).
Exploring the Ringwood State Park complex: Just minutes from most campgrounds, this 4,444-acre park includes Ringwood Manor, the New Jersey Botanical Gardens, and Skylands Manor. Hikers can access multiple trail systems connecting these features. A visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation mentioned, "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks... Convenient for hiking and exploring" (Jeff W.).
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options than others. At Stokes State Forest, campers appreciate the natural buffers: "The Steam Mill Camping Area is tucked out the of the way and is the most primitive. It is the smallest of the campgrounds with 27 sites only suitable for tents or small trailers/campervans" (Trip Over Life).
Clean facilities despite rustic settings: Many campgrounds maintain good standards for bathhouses. One camper at Great Divide Campground observed, "Bathrooms clean And shower was warm and clean as well. They even have a heater to keep you comfortable in and out of the shower" (Julie).
Diverse accommodation options: Beyond standard glamping in Ringwood, New Jersey area, several campgrounds offer unique structures. Camp Glen Gray provides rustic cabins alongside traditional sites. As one visitor shared, "Great Camp!!! 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" (Jose N.).
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: This region has active black bear populations. A camper at Stokes State Forest warned, "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes" (Trip Over Life).
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the Ringwood vicinity have spotty connectivity. As one camper at Panther Lake noted, "Love the place! People were nice. Bathrooms were clean. Only issue is the internet is terrible u have to be near the wifi zones" (Umar A.).