Situated in the eastern part of New Jersey, camping near Teaneck offers access to state forests and recreational areas with diverse terrain ranging from 200 to 1,800 feet in elevation. The region experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Many campgrounds remain open year-round but provide varying levels of winter facilities depending on location.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Stokes State Forest provides direct access to 12 miles of the iconic Appalachian Trail. A camper noted, "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail."
Water activities on multiple lakes: Round Valley State Park Campground offers a 2,350-acre reservoir for swimming and boating. According to one visitor, "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water."
Mountain viewpoints: High Point State Park features the highest elevation in New Jersey with observation points. A visitor shared, "You can also drive or hike to Sunset Mountain Scenic Overlook for a view of High Point Monument. High Point Monument is the highest elevation in New Jersey."
Wildlife observation: The forests around Teaneck support diverse wildlife including bears, deer, and various bird species. Campers should practice proper food storage, as one 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."
What campers like
Primitive camping options: While glamping near Teaneck is popular, some prefer more rustic experiences. One Round Valley camper said, "If you're looking for a getaway without doing backcountry planning this is the place."
Military-exclusive facilities: West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area caters specifically to military personnel. A veteran mentioned, "We've been coming here for at least 13 years. We love that it's a place specifically for Vets and active Military. Everyone is amazingly respectful of each other."
Secluded sites: Many campgrounds offer privacy despite proximity to urban areas. A camper at High Point State Park noted, "The campground has a pit toilet and a well. Each large campsite has a picnic table, fire pit, and lantern hook. Some sites also have a tent platform."
Winter accommodation options: Some areas offer cabins with heating for cold-weather stays. One visitor reported, "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend. The wood stove definitely heats the room up nicely."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season from May through October. Sites fill quickly on weekends.
Noise levels vary significantly: Some campgrounds enforce strict quiet hours while others are known for being more social. A camper at Kittatinny Campground warned, "Busy campground no quiet time loud music till 3 in the morning. Very clean, workers very friendly and helpful but after dark no one around."
Terrain challenges: Many campsites in the region feature uneven ground or require hiking to access. A visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation advised, "I have hiked throughout the entire US and consider myself somewhere between a moderate to skilled hiker and I found these trails challenging and uneven."
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity is common throughout the region. A visitor at High Point State Park emphasized, "This is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with dedicated activities: Great Divide Campground offers structured programs for children. One visitor noted, "The common area, along with the pool, had a small soccer field and volleyball court. They also had scheduled activities for kids."
Consider lake access for summer visits: Panther Lake Camping Resort provides multiple water options. A camper mentioned, "The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake."
Check bathroom facilities before booking: Comfort stations vary widely between locations. A Panther Lake camper cautioned, "Probably the worst shower ever. The lights are timed. The water is a button. The space is small as hell."
Plan for different site layouts: Tent platforms are common at some parks but not all. A High Point State Park visitor shared, "Some sites located around the opposite side of the ring back up to a babbling brook. The rushing water will soothe you to sleep."
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: Only certain campgrounds offer complete RV services. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, an RVer reported, "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."
Size restrictions exist: Many campgrounds cannot accommodate large rigs. One camper noted, "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N. Y. City."
Seasonal considerations: Some RV facilities close during winter months. Most upscale glamping near Teaneck with RV accommodations operates from April through October.
Level sites are limited: An RVer cautioned, "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."
