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."
