Camp Glen Gray provides rustic cabin accommodations within a forested setting 30 miles northwest of New York City. Situated in the Ramapo Mountains at elevations ranging from 400 to 700 feet, the area experiences moderate seasonal temperature variations with summer averages of 75-85°F. Cabin camping options near Rockleigh extend beyond traditional settings to include yurts and various glamping accommodations throughout northern New Jersey and adjacent New York counties.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation features extensive wooded trail networks accessible from campsites. "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," explains reviewer Jeff W. at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Lakeside recreation: Multiple lakes provide swimming and fishing opportunities within short drives of campsites. "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. The slight downside was that we had to drive between the different lakes," notes Justin P. about his experience at High Point State Park Campground.
Elevation views: Access mountain viewpoints for regional panoramas. "You can drive to High Point monument that is 1803 feet above sea level and you get a spectacular panorama view. There are hiking trails and fresh water for kayaking," writes Yolanda T. about the state's highest elevation point.
What campers like
Woodland seclusion: Tent campsites at Stokes State Forest offer natural separation and terrain variation. "Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents. Site came with bear proof bin for garbage and fire ring," reports E.M.V. who stayed at Stokes State Forest.
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained bathhouses and common areas enhance camping comfort. "Bath houses are absolutely spotless. Fire pits, electric and water hook ups only. Will return! Staff is friendly and helpful. Military families should check it out!" shares Mindie C. about West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area.
Yurt camping options: Mountain Lakes Park offers alternative accommodation through yurt rentals. "Mountain Lakes park is a great place to camp within driving distance from NYC. A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in. The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes," explains Ethan K. who visited the park.
What you should know
Military-only access: Some facilities restrict usage to military personnel and families. "Yes, this is a military-only campground but, that doesn't take away from how incredible it is and that is properly advertised. This place is incredible. Being military-only keeps standards high, the campground clean and well maintained," notes Heather M. about Lake Frederick.
Wildlife considerations: The region has active bear populations requiring proper food storage. "Remember, this is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes," cautions one reviewer about Stokes State Forest.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance bookings, especially during summer months. "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks," adds Jeff W., highlighting the popularity that drives reservation demands.
Tips for camping with families
Child-focused activities: Jellystone Park Gardiner provides programmed recreation specifically designed for younger campers. "This campground is great for kids. It has a event just about every weekend with kid activity," confirms Jennifer I., while another reviewer adds, "This campground has a lot of activities and has kids of all ages galore. I was worried my 12 year old would be too old for it but he enjoyed making friends there."
Platform tent options: Some sites offer raised wooden platforms to improve tent camping comfort. "Each campsite has a firepit/ring, picnic table, and lantern hook. Campsite sells fire wood. Clean-ish bathrooms with flush toilets, no sinks, no showers," describes one camper about High Point State Park's amenities.
Water features for hot days: Several parks offer swimming options during summer months. "Nice pool that is shallow so you can relax and let the little ones go in the water park section alone or they have a 3 ft pool also. My older kids preferred a deeper pool but they still had a great time," notes Amanda S. about the water amenities at Jellystone Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection and leveling: Choose appropriate RV sites based on terrain and size. "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," advises antruze about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary significantly between campgrounds. "Each place comes with a lamp hang, a fire ring, and a picnic table. Bathrooms are spaced out. No running water except for pump founded outside of the bathrooms," reports Damia F. about High Point State Park facilities.
Transport limitations: Some facilities restrict vehicle access to camping areas. "No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Trading Post for treats and other items," explains Jose N. about Camp Glen Gray's limitations, which may affect RV campers' planning.
