Saddle Brook campers have convenient access to RV campsites across northern New Jersey and neighboring New York state. The region sits at the edge of the Ramapo Mountains with elevations ranging from 40 to 1,200 feet. Seasonal variations significantly impact camping conditions, with most facilities operating from April through October when temperatures average between 50°F and 85°F.
What to do
Beach access at Harriman State Park: Canopus Lake features a sandy beach with lifeguard-monitored swimming during summer months. The beach remains accessible to campers after Labor Day even when closed to the general public. "A stones throw from NYC this beautiful area combines Lake Welch and Harriman State Park. This camp ground is laid back away from the busy activity of the big city," shares a Beaver Pond Campground visitor.
Hudson Valley exploration: Use camping as your base for regional sightseeing within 30-45 minutes of camp. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," notes a Harriman State Park camper.
Delaware River activities: Several campgrounds offer direct river access for fishing and small watercraft. "Safe, clean, and right on the Delaware River. Groceries and Home Depot close buy if you need to restock," reports a Tri-State RV Park guest.
What campers like
City access from rustic settings: Multiple campgrounds provide transit connections to Manhattan while maintaining natural surroundings. "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 a Liberty Harbor RV Park visitor.
Varied terrain options: Sites range from exposed parking-lot style to wooded, platform, and more private locations. "The campground offers several different sties, from platform tent spaces to those for 25' trailers. All sites have a standard picnic table and fire ring," notes a Fahnestock State Park camper.
Farm and wildlife interaction: Some campgrounds incorporate animal encounters as part of the experience. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," writes a Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort guest.
What you should know
Winter camping limitations: Most campgrounds in the region close seasonally, with only a few offering year-round RV sites near Saddle Brook, New Jersey. "When we tried to check in, they told us we were a day too early... They had another mixup. On checkout day, we didn't check out on time and they didn't contact us until it was so late we had to pay for and stay another night," reports a winter camper at Skyline RV Camp.
Bathroom facility variability: Quality and maintenance of facilities vary significantly between parks. "I do feel the campground bathhouse really needed more attention... while it had clearly been painted this past year, it was very 'buggy' - and did not appear to have been thoroughly cleaned since spring," notes a camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Double-check reservations: Several reviewers report booking issues, particularly during peak season. "Fahnestock State Park can book up during camping season in the Northeast so make sure to book early in advance," advises a regular visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground and activity options: Seek campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. "They have a small playground, a mini golf, and a large dog walk. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable of the area," writes a visitor to Pleasant Acres Farm.
Beach swimming access: Several parks offer designated swimming areas with amenities. "The park has a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean! They even have boat rentals," reports a Beaver Pond reviewer.
Noise considerations: Weekend noise levels can impact family camping experiences. "Offering the peaceful tranquility of sitting under the changing oak, sumacs, maples, and poplars, I wouldn't recommend this site for the quiet hearted. There is a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers," notes a Beaver Pond camper.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Many campgrounds have access limitations for larger rigs. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," advises an RVer who stayed at Liberty Harbor.
Winter RV adaptations: For cold-weather camping, be prepared for service limitations. "We recently had the pleasure of staying at Mountain Top and were impressed by the exceptional experience and service provided by the owners. The newly upgraded camp infrastructure elevated the stay, providing amenities for comfort and entertainment," shares a visitor to Mountain Top RV Park.
Site leveling challenges: Terrain varies significantly between RV parks in the region. "Small campground. Sites very close to one another. Close to ferry for downtown and Statue of Liberty. People are very nice and accommodating," reports a Liberty Harbor guest.
