Pet friendly camping options near Tenafly, New Jersey span across New York and New Jersey state lines, with most sites located within a 30-45 minute drive of the town. The region sits at the edge of the Hudson Highlands, where elevations range from sea level to over 1,000 feet at nearby mountain points. Campsites in this area typically experience moderate summer temperatures between 75-85°F, with cooler nights around 60-65°F.
What to do
Hiking with trail options: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers over 40 miles of trails for all skill levels. "This is a great place for camping. The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather. The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area," notes Ethan K. in his review of Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Swimming in lake waters: Beaver Pond Campground provides access to Welch Lake with lifeguard-monitored swimming. As Zorina N. explains, the campground has a "clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," making it easy to plan your swimming activities at Beaver Pond Campground.
Visiting NYC attractions: Use campgrounds as a base for city exploration. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, "We spent 3 nights here last week. I was in NYC for business and we took our RV. Very convenient location. My wife visited Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island," shares Kevin A.
What campers like
Easy access to transportation: Campers appreciate sites with transit connections. "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. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Seasonal camping options: Many sites offer extended seasons. At Croton Point Park, you can enjoy "a gorgeous camping ground right on the Hudson with beach and trails. Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but that's what make it unique experience!" according to Anil S.
Platform tent sites: Several parks feature raised platforms for tents. "The sites have a standard picnic table and fire ring. Our site is a trailer site, it's perfect for the trusty old pop-up, and feels nice and roomy," notes Steve W. from Croton Point Park.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation. At Beaver Pond, Steve W. warns, "'Welcome to Bear Mountain' grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area."
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Not all campgrounds offer full amenities. At Stonetown Circular Trail Primitive Site, "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," but Ethan K. cautions that "it is at the top of a fairly difficult rock scramble."
Reservation systems vary: Some parks require in-person booking. For Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, Paul R. notes, "They have great sights and are open all year round. The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds and kid-friendly waters: Family-focused campers should seek out amenities for children. "There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids," mentions Andrew A. about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, making it suitable for families with various interests.
Consider off-peak camping: Weekdays typically offer a quieter experience than weekends. Rebecca S. shares about Beaver Pond Campground, "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."
Pack for varying temperatures: The region experiences significant day-to-night temperature swings. As one camper notes, "Morning visitors frequently walk their dogs through the camping area, creating a busy atmosphere during daylight hours that contrasts with the quiet evenings."
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: RV sites vary widely in size and accessibility. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill," reports Nancymike K., while other campgrounds may have tighter constraints.
Prepare for proximity to neighbors: Some RV parks place units close together. As Keith and Tia S. advise about Liberty Harbor, "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig."
Utility hookups vary by campground: Research what's available before arrival. Antruze notes at Mahlon Dickerson, "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."
