Leo C.
Scout
ScoutWinding Hills Park
Nice but dated
Nice campground, bathrooms are clean but dated, first come first serve for the sites.
Camping near Washington Township, NJ
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Located roughly 30 miles northwest of New York City, Washington Township, New Jersey provides access to campgrounds ranging from developed RV sites with full electric hookups to primitive tent camping and cabin rentals. Campgrounds such as Mahlon Dickerson Reservation and Camp Glen Gray offer multiple accommodation types including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Harriman State Park, situated just across the state line in New York, features several developed campgrounds including Beaver Pond and the rustic Sebago Cabin Camp. The region includes both established campgrounds with amenities and more primitive camping opportunities along trails like the Stonetown Circular, where backpackers can access designated backcountry sites.
Many campgrounds in the area require advance reservations, particularly during the peak summer season from late May through early September. Developed sites at places like Campgaw Mountain Reservation and Croton Point Park provide varying levels of amenities, from basic toilets to full electric hookups and shower facilities. Several campgrounds maintain seasonal operations, with many closing during winter months. Primitive camping options remain accessible year-round but may have weather restrictions. Road access varies considerably, with some locations requiring short hikes from parking areas to reach tent sites. A visitor to Stonetown Circular trail noted, "This is a great spot to set up camp because it has a wide area and an amazing view, but the only difficult thing is that it is at the top of a fairly difficult rock scramble."
Campers consistently mention the region's proximity to hiking trails and water features as major highlights. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center receives positive reviews for its lake access and camping platforms. According to one visitor, "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio." Sebago Cabin Camp draws campers seeking a rustic experience with electricity but without indoor plumbing. Those seeking solitude might encounter challenges at some locations—a review of Campgaw Mountain Reservation mentions "super popular hiking trails that run right through all the camps," though the site becomes quiet after sunset. Many campgrounds in the region balance natural settings with relative proximity to urban areas, making them popular weekend destinations for residents of the New York metropolitan area.
Best Campgrounds near Washington Township (104)
1. Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park
"Drive-in tent campgrounds. Adequate restroom facilities sprinkled amongst tent sites. Some campsites have raised platforms. All sites have picnic tables and fire ring with flip-top grill."
"The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out."
from $21 - $24 / night
Check Availability2. Liberty Harbor RV Park
"This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."
"Basicly a parking lot, but the location can't be beat. 2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you yyo manhatten."
from $145 - $180 / night
Check Availability3. Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
"It is a step up from cabin camping. They also have a beach behind it."
"This place is only an hour away from NYC with so much to do and see. These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge."
from $130 / night
Check Availability4. Croton Point Park
"Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but thats what make it unique experience! Bathrooms with shower is near by and has plenty porta potties all around."
"Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!"
from $30 - $60 / night
Check Availability5. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
"This was beautiful campground with an even nicer lake. You are able to do a hike around the lake."
"Great trails to hike for novices looking to branch out but not too large that you'll be lost forever lol highly recommend and can't do so enough 👍🏽"
6. Camp Glen Gray
"One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Trading Post for treats and other items."
"Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions"
from $5 - $200 / night
Check Availability7. Campgaw Mountain Reservation
8. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
"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."
"It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities."
9. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #1
"Stonetown Circular trail is a 11 mile medium/high difficulty loop trail. This is the first of two primitive sites along the trail. The trailhead is across the street from a large parking lot."
10. Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2
"Stonetown Circular trail is a 11 mile medium/high difficulty loop trail. This is the second of two primitive sites along the trail. The trailhead is across the street from a large parking lot."
Drive Time
- 22 min from New York, NY
- 28 min from Kiryas Joel, NY
- 59 min from Bridgeport, CT
- 1 hr 15 min from New Haven, CT
Recent Camping Photos near Washington Township, NJ
342 Photos of 104 Washington Township Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Campgaw Mountain Reservation
Croton Point Park
Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park
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Tentrr Signature Site - Appalachian Trail Hilltop Hideaway - Coleman Cooking Site
Moon Valley CampgroundD
Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025
Black Bear RV ParkT
Camp Gateway- Brooklyn NY - CLOSED — Gateway National Recreation Area
Woodland Trails
Ward Pound Ridge Reservation
Recent Reviews near Washington Township, NJ
642 Reviews of 104 Washington Township Campgrounds
Thomas B.
RangerNeversink River Resort
Cool Riverside Campground
I'll start by saying this is a site-specific review (C20). I booked using Campspot and didn't select my own site but put in the criteria for my rig (30ft TT plus truck) and got a 50A back-in spot. The site was big but abnormal. Between the picnic table placement and the trees, I ended up right around 50ft from the electric and water, and the water spigot was so low I could barely put on my camco filter. With the uneven dirt roads, I had to unhitch with my truck in a gigantic puddle (lol). The site was otherwise fine aside from my gate code not working on Day 2. As for the campground as a whole, I thought it was pretty unique place by the river that offered several good amenities and activities, like downstream river tubing, an arcade, bathroom/shower facilities, a small store, little trails, and more. I would say this place borders the more primitive side.
Edwin R.ScoutCheesequake State Park Campground
Park uses county cops to shut down park by 9pm.
On Friday, September 4, 2026, I rented a trailer and brought my family to Cheesequake State Park to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary over the extended Labor Day weekend. Around 9:20 PM—well before the park's designated 10:00 PM quiet hours—we were sitting inside our canopy, playing Jenga, and listening to low background music. Two officers from the Matawan Police Department approached our campsite. They were polite and courteous, simply offering a standard reminder to wrap things up by 10:00 PM. Before they could leave, however, a third, senior officer intervened. Wanting to"show them how it's done," he made the two polite officers return and stand by to watch as he demonstrated how to aggressively harass campers. Flashlight in hand, the senior officer approached with an immediate hostile attitude, treating us like criminals as he demanded to know who rented the site. He began reiterating rules and claimed we had too many vehicles. We had three cars, one belonging to my brother-in-law's girlfriend, who was visiting with her daughter. She had paid the$10 visitor fee at the main office and was instructed by staff to obtain the gate access code from us, the primary renters, if she got locked in. No staff member ever informed her of an 8:00 PM visitor departure deadline, leading us to reasonably assume visitors were permitted until quiet hours began at 10:00 PM. The officer rudely snapped that she had been given wrong information. The senior officer then used profanity in front of three small children, aggressively telling her to ("get her shit and get the fuck out!") in that manner or use profanity, the officer went from hostile to furious. He angrily declared that these were official violations and threatened that he could be issuing us tickets instead. Desperately searching for anything and everything to throw at us, he demanded that we turn off our idling car—which was supplying power to our campsite—and instructed us to make sure the campfire was doused before shutting down for the night. He then proceeded to shine his flashlight into our private setup—including our canopy, tents, and the inside of our trailer—searching for any other possible violation while the two polite officers were forced to watch. What was supposed to be a special 10th wedding anniversary celebration with my family was completely ruined by a senior officer misusing his authority to put on an unnecessary display of intimidation. Worse than just ruining our night, he spent that evening teaching those two police officers how to be bad cops. He corrupted two officers in real time, demonstrating firsthand exactly why most people have lost faith in the police force. The next day we was ready for them. We turned off our lights and quietly by the fire while they went next door to harass an asian family that had just set up camp and had their leds lights on.
- eedgar V.Scout
Black Bear RV Park
Super clean and quiet
Past reviews has mentioned that the office seems to be closed often, while I found that to be true I had no reason to contact anyone. This is definitely one of the cleanest quiets site I’ve ever visited
- KKelly B.
GuideClarence Fahnestock State Park Campground
Check site photos first
Definitely a wide variety of sites—look at the site pictures before booking—there are two areas where it’s just an open field with bonfires and picnic tables that I’d avoid. I could see a large group going there or something but personally it doesn’t offer any privacy.
BUT if you book one of the other sites that DOES have privacy you’ll be in camping heaven. The “hike in” sites are more like “walk-in,” I was worried at first but it’s some are as little as a few yards from the road. The most annoying part was lugging the cooler back and forth, but totally worth it
- KKelly B.Guide
Stephens State Park Campground
Great last min getaway
Booked the day before—even on the holiday weekend! Just 1.5 hours outside of NYC, site was a bit close to the neighbors (fire pit was very far back and basically in the neighbors’ campsite, but we put up a “privacy clothesline” and hung a tarp over it for a bit of extra coverage.
The staff was friendly and helpful, they said it was the busiest they’ve seen the campground all year (there were lots of large groups but everyone seemed to settle down by 9:30pm
Poison ivy was EVERYWHERE at our site so make sure to stick to the open areas and the paths. Lots of families around, we felt very safe Bathrooms were fine—it was my impression they’re usually cleaner but the high traffic of the weekend left a bit to be desired, (lots of families around=dirty diapers in the bathroom trash bin) but it’s camping! I’m not gonna argue w a flushing toilet!
- KKevin F.
TravelerTri-State RV Park
A place to stay in an area lacking campgrounds.
This area seems to be devoid of campgrounds except for this one. It’s basically just a large parking lot with hook ups. Completely open, which is great for Starlink. Bathrooms were slightly above average; fairly clean and places to hang clothes for your shower. Has a laundry but be sure to bring quarters. It is about 100 yards from the interstate so you’ll get a lot of noise and diesel exhaust fumes.
- JJoyceScout
Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park
Bare bones
No hookups. It was wooded, quiet and dark at night. I used the dump station on my way out. The first time I ever saw a poop fountain. The sewer opening sticks up above ground level. The cover swivels away, so I couldn't put it on top of my hose. And then, when I tried to rinse it, there was nowhere for it to go, because the inlet is elevated.
Deiludi P.ScoutKittatinny Campground
AWFUL
We reserved for a day. Very bad service. The river is super dirty and they did not even clean the trash cans. Besides, the fire ring has no grill cooking grate, so if you don’t bring your own NO GRILLING. Ryan was the person in front that took care of us, he was rude, my kids felt weird because he was not welcoming at all. Also, we try to ask for a partial refund since we did not felt comfortable since the beginning, and they said NO. We have experience camping, but this one was simply THE WORST. We lost the money but we won’t put our kids in a difficult situation. Thanks.
Guide to Washington Township
The area surrounding Washington Township, New Jersey sits within the Highland region, featuring elevations between 400-1,100 feet and mixed hardwood forests. Seasonal changes affect camping conditions significantly, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F while fall brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage displays. Winter camping requires additional preparation due to temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking near Flag pole peak: The Stonetown Circular trail offers challenging terrain for experienced hikers approximately 2 miles from the trailhead. "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," notes one camper about the primitive camping spot.
Swimming at Lake Welch: Located within Harriman State Park, the lake provides a sandy beach with lifeguard supervision during summer months. A camper at Beaver Pond Campground mentions, "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. If you want to get away and relax you can come here to walk, swim and camp."
Wildlife viewing: Several camping areas provide opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. At the Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, visitors can watch beavers from common areas. According to a camper, "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio."
What campers like
Platform campsites: Elevated camping platforms at several locations provide practical advantages in varying weather conditions. A reviewer at Beaver Pond Campground noted, "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. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained."
Rustic cabin options: Cabins at Sebago Cabin Camp provide minimal amenities but allow for longer stays without extensive equipment. "These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge," explains one visitor. Another adds, "Ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire out other outdoor set up."
Proximity to transportation: Many camping spots near Washington Township, New Jersey offer accessibility to public transit options. As one camper noted, "This campsite is accessible by public transportation. There is a shuttle run by the campsite to and from Tuxedo Park Train Station."
What you should know
Bear precautions: Multiple campgrounds in the area require proper food storage due to active black bear populations. A visitor to Croton Point Park advises, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules, typically closing in late fall through early spring. One camper at Beaver Pond noted, "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."
Noise considerations: Proximity to urban areas and popular trails can impact the camping experience. At Campgaw Mountain Reservation, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Family-friendly water access makes several locations particularly suitable for children. "Short distance from NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," notes a visitor to Croton Point Park about amenities that accommodate families.
Educational opportunities: Several camping locations near Washington Township provide historical and natural learning experiences. Camp Glen Gray visitors appreciate this aspect, with one reviewer noting, "Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions."
Playground access: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation and other camping areas maintain playground facilities within view of camping areas. One visitor observed, "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Many campgrounds offer limited electrical and water hookups but lack full sewer connections. A visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park explained, "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else."
Spacious sites at Mahlon Dickerson: The reservation offers larger, more private sites for RVs. "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."
Easy navigation: Despite mountainous terrain, several campgrounds provide manageable roads for larger vehicles. One Mahlon Dickerson visitor noted, "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Washington Township, NJ?
What camping is available near Washington Township, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Washington Township, NJ offers a wide range of camping options, with 104 campgrounds and RV parks near Washington Township, NJ and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Washington Township, NJ?
Which is the most popular campground near Washington Township, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Washington Township, NJ is Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park with a 4.2-star rating from 41 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Washington Township, NJ?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Washington Township, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Washington Township, NJ.
What parks are near Washington Township, NJ?
What parks are near Washington Township, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near Washington Township, NJ that allow camping, notably Gateway National Recreation Area and Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
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