Camping spots near Tenafly, New Jersey range from basic tent sites to full-amenity campgrounds within an hour's drive. The area sits within the New York-New Jersey Highlands region, characterized by rocky ridges reaching 1,000 feet in elevation and valleys with numerous lakes and streams. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing while summer camping season features average highs in the mid-80s with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking interconnected trail networks: At The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, trails accommodate various skill levels. "Great trails to hike for novices looking to branch out but not too large that you'll be lost forever," notes one visitor. The center provides access to multiple hiking routes around its lake.
Swimming in natural settings: Lake access is available at many campgrounds within 30-45 minutes of Tenafly. Sebago Cabin Camp offers "phenomenal local swimming" according to one reviewer, who adds: "Near lake Welch- which is phenomenal for easy nearly beach-like camping." Many campers recommend the swimming options over other amenities.
Disc golf and water activities: Campgaw Mountain Reservation features disc golf courses adjacent to camping areas. One camper mentions: "There was also plenty to do during the day, like joining the hikers on those trails, disc golf, and sitting by the water." The recreation areas remain accessible even during quiet camping periods.
What campers like
Proximity to New York City sights: Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront offers urban camping with city views. A camper reports: "The view of the skyline across the water is spectacular and there's a metro station within a 10-minute walk. The area feels safe and is pedestrian friendly, even at night."
Wildlife encounters: Multiple camping areas feature active wildlife. At Beaver Pond Campground, one camper observed: "Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint." Bear activity is also noted, with a ranger greeting campers with "Welcome to Bear Mountain" and providing information about bear safety protocols.
Off-peak tranquility: Visiting during weekdays or shoulder seasons provides a different experience. One camper at Beaver Pond notes: "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great." Many campgrounds transform from busy family destinations to quiet retreats outside peak periods.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Train sounds affect some camping areas. At Croton Point Park, "there is a train depot right outside and you can hear them shunting trains all night." Urban campgrounds may have additional noise sources.
Site spacing variations: Campground layouts vary significantly. Beaver Pond gets praise for its layout: "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." Other campgrounds feature more densely arranged sites.
Bathroom and shower facilities: Facility quality varies widely between campgrounds. Some offer full bathrooms while others provide minimal facilities. At Skyline RV Camp, a camper noted: "There was only 1 bathroom with small shower for all guests, however they are in the process of adding 5 more."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Playgrounds and protected swimming areas make certain campgrounds better for families. At Croton Point Park, a camper mentioned: "I took my 5 year-old-son and wife, all of us first time campers. This place was great. The site was very nice, all the people friendly and area beautiful."
Halloween camping options: Camp Glen Gray and nearby campgrounds offer seasonal activities. "This is our favorite family campsite. Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly," reports one family camper. Some locations organize holiday-themed events.
Cabin alternatives: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. Sebago Cabin Camp offers rustic accommodations described as: "These do not have plumbing or heat. It is a step up from cabin camping. They also have a beach behind it." Cabin rentals typically require advance reservations.
Tips from RVers
NYC access points: RV camping near transit connections provides unique urban access. Liberty Harbor RV Park's location allows for easy Manhattan visits. One RVer explains: "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."
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds near Tenafly offer partial hookups only. An RVer at Liberty Harbor noted: "Sites had electric and water and were in a fenced off section of the marina parking area. It was a little loud with city noises, but exactly what we expected being so close."
Arrival timing considerations: RVers recommend weekday arrivals to avoid traffic congestion. Construction and narrow roads can complicate navigation to some campgrounds. One RVer advised: "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."
