Camping options near Little Falls, New Jersey range from rustic tent sites to full-service RV facilities within 30 miles of town. The area sits at elevations between 150-400 feet in the New Jersey Highlands region, characterized by rolling hills and small lakes. Winter overnight temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, while summer camping season brings average highs of 80-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Staten Island's Camp Gateway offers unique urban-adjacent hiking with historical elements. "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building. This place is great if you live in New York city and don't want to drive really far from the city to go camping," notes Phillip L. from Camp Gateway Staten Island.
Swimming access: Several campsites near Little Falls feature lake swimming during summer months. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," according to Ethan K. who visited Sebago Cabin Camp. The beach areas typically have lifeguards during peak season.
Rock scrambling: For more adventurous campers, certain trails offer challenging terrain within an hour's drive. "This is a great spot to set up camp because it has a wide area and an amazing view. You will find the site right next to the American Flag at the top of the mountain. The only difficult thing about this site is that it is at the top of a fairly difficult rock scramble," explains Ethan K. about Stonetown Circular trail.
What campers like
City proximity with nature balance: Campsites maintain wilderness feel despite urban proximity. "Nightfall is great. This campground is amazing. You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a night light," shares Phillip L. about his experience at Camp Gateway Staten Island.
Lake amenities: Several campsites feature water recreation beyond just swimming. "Big campground, lots of sites, nice pool, big community hot tub, boating is great, good fishing, nice playground, basketball court and great amenities," according to Richard V. who stayed at Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Trail access: Many campsites connect directly to hiking networks. "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. Water and electric hookups and a dump station. Convenient for hiking and exploring," notes Jeff W. about his experience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds within 30 miles of Little Falls require advance booking, especially during summer weekends. "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great!" says Jojo P. about Panther Lake.
Urban camping reality: Some nearby options offer more urban than wilderness experiences. "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," explains Joe R. from Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Primitive site considerations: Free camping options exist but require additional planning. "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. If you like being woken up by folks walking their dog at 7 AM, this is the spot for you," shares Jake R. about his experience at Campgaw Mountain Reservation.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused campgrounds: Some sites offer organized programming. "Fun camping place to books groups. Very kid and pet friendly, lake to fish and kayak on, lots of activities, great pool and awesome hot tub," recommends Cynthia H. about Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Cabin options: Several locations offer cabin alternatives to tent camping. "We were able to rent a cabin which was equipped with an outside grill and picnic area. It is great if you are going with a group/family and people want to sleep inside a cabin as oppose to a tent outside," shares Ethan K. about his Sebago experience.
Location considerations: When camping with kids, proximity to facilities matters. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint. Free Hot showers in the bathrooms, with plenty of room to change," notes Megan B. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV sites vary significantly in spacing and privacy. "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," reports Ethan K.
Hookup availability: Water and electric access points vary between campgrounds. "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," explains a reviewer at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Urban RV options: RVers seeking city access have limited but functional options. "Small campground. Sites very close to one another. Close to ferry for downtown and Statue of Liberty. People are very nice and accommodating. More of a stopping place to see the sites," says Missy S. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
