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 Saddle Brook, NJ
103 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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Camping options near Saddle Brook, New Jersey range from urban RV parks to more secluded mountain campgrounds. The area includes Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City with views of the Statue of Liberty, Camp Glen Gray with cabin accommodations, and Campgaw Mountain Reservation offering tent sites. Within a 30-mile radius, campers can find several established campgrounds that accommodate both tents and RVs, with some facilities like Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park operating seasonally from April through October.
Permit requirements and amenities vary considerably across camping areas. At Campgaw Mountain Reservation, permits are required but camping is free, while most other developed campgrounds charge fees and require reservations. "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," noted one visitor. Weather conditions are generally mild during summer months, though higher elevation sites in nearby mountain areas can experience cooler temperatures. Most campgrounds in the region provide basic amenities such as toilets and picnic tables, while more developed sites offer electric hookups, showers, and in some cases, cabin rentals.
Camper experiences highlight the contrast between urban and natural settings available in the region. Liberty Harbor RV Park receives mixed reviews due to its parking lot-like setting but earns praise for its strategic location near Manhattan. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "It is just a gravel parking lot with water and electricity... but if you are looking for a place to crash and hit up the city or Liberty Island, this place is great." Camp Glen Gray garners positive reviews for its clean cabins, hiking trails, and rustic atmosphere. For those seeking more isolated experiences, primitive camping sites along the Stonetown Circular trail offer spectacular views but require navigating challenging terrain with lightweight gear. The diversity of camping environments makes the Saddle Brook area suitable for various camping styles from urban exploration bases to nature immersion.
Best Campgrounds near Saddle Brook (103)
1. 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 Availability2. 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 Availability3. 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 Availability4. 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."
5. 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 Availability6. Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront
"A little intimidating driving in to a nondescript gate at the end of a narrow street but the overall experience exceeded expectation."
from $130 / night
Check Availability7. 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. 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 👍🏽"
10. Skyline RV Camp - Non-Waterfront
from $85 - $120 / night
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Drive Time
- 17 min from New York, NY
- 34 min from Kiryas Joel, NY
- 1 hr 6 min from Bridgeport, CT
- 1 hr 7 min from Trenton, NJ
Recent Camping Photos near Saddle Brook, NJ
351 Photos of 103 Saddle Brook Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Campgaw Mountain Reservation
Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025
Croton Point Park
Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park
Camp Gateway- Brooklyn NY - CLOSED — Gateway National Recreation Area
Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
Wawayanda Group Shelter
Tentrr Signature Site - Appalachian Trail Hilltop Hideaway - Coleman Cooking Site
Moon Valley CampgroundD
Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Areas
Woodland Trails
Black Bear RV ParkT
Recent Reviews near Saddle Brook, NJ
644 Reviews of 103 Saddle Brook 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 Saddle Brook
Camping near Saddle Brook, New Jersey ranges from free wilderness sites to full-service campgrounds, with elevations varying from 400 feet in the valleys to over 1,000 feet at mountain sites. Seasonal restrictions apply at most locations, with Beaver Pond Campground closing between October and April while Mahlon Dickerson Reservation remains open year-round. The proximity to New York City means weekend reservations should be secured 3-4 months in advance.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, miles of well-marked paths connect directly to campsites. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," notes Paulene-Amanda M., highlighting the family-friendly nature of the trails.
Water activities: Swimming and boating options expand during summer months at The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center. "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity," recommends Ethan K., who found the lake "beautiful" with opportunities to "do a hike around" it.
Winter sports: Several campgrounds near Saddle Brook offer seasonal activities. Campgaw Mountain Reservation transforms in winter months, with camping areas near ski and snowboard runs. During other seasons, "there was plenty to do during the day, like joining the hikers on those trails, disc golf, and sitting by the water," according to Jake R.
What campers like
Proximity to NYC: The best camping spots near Saddle Brook appeal to urban escapees. Liberty Harbor RV Park lets campers maintain city access. "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," explains Emily L., highlighting the practical convenience.
Peaceful lake settings: Many campers praise the quiet water features. "Beaver Pond has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," explains Ethan K. about Sebago Cabin Camp.
Spacious sites: At more remote locations, the separation between campsites receives positive mentions. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that," notes reviewer antruze about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, appreciating the thoughtful amenities.
What you should know
Bear activity: Wildlife encounters require preparation at several campgrounds. At Beaver Pond Campground, "Welcome to Bear Mountain" greets arrivals according to Steve W., who explains, "He's nice, but you can tell he's given this welcome speech too many times to get overly excited about it."
Alcohol restrictions: Many county and state parks prohibit alcohol. Campgaw Mountain Reservation and Croton Point Park both post this rule at entrances. One camper at Mahlon Dickerson notes: "Campground rules do not list anything about alcohol on the website or the emailed rules given after reservation, however there is an alcohol prohibited sign as you enter."
Site-specific quirks: Each campground has unique challenges. At Campgaw Mountain, "The sites themselves are fairly close to the road and there are super popular hiking trails that run right through all the camps. If you like being woken up by folks walking their dog at 7 AM, this is the spot for you," writes Jake R.
Tips for camping with families
Platform tent options: Several campgrounds offer raised platforms that improve the camping experience. At Croton Point Park, "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper," notes Thomas, highlighting the family-friendly setup.
Wildlife education opportunities: Turn animal sightings into learning moments. At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC, "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio," shares Ilya F., describing a natural viewing platform for wildlife observation.
Off-season advantages: For families seeking quieter experiences, timing matters. Jake R. reports about Campgaw: "We went on a holiday weekend, and we were the only campsite that was occupied, so that is absolutely a plus."
Tips from RVers
City access sites: For RVers wanting urban adventures, select sites strategically. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, "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," advises Joe R.
GPS challenges: Several RV-friendly campgrounds have navigation issues. At Croton Point Park, "Site does not have Wi-Fi and street address didn't work correctly with multiple GPS apps. (Used Park address)," warns Thomas, suggesting campers prepare alternate directions.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use," notes Shawn B. about Liberty Harbor. Compare with Mahlon Dickerson, where reviewers appreciate the "dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Saddle Brook, NJ?
What camping is available near Saddle Brook, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Saddle Brook, NJ offers a wide range of camping options, with 103 campgrounds and RV parks near Saddle Brook, NJ and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Saddle Brook, NJ?
Which is the most popular campground near Saddle Brook, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Saddle Brook, NJ is Liberty Harbor RV Park with a 3.8-star rating from 16 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Saddle Brook, NJ?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Saddle Brook, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Saddle Brook, NJ.
What parks are near Saddle Brook, NJ?
What parks are near Saddle Brook, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near Saddle Brook, NJ that allow camping, notably Gateway National Recreation Area and Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
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