Camping near West Milford, New Jersey offers options in both wooded settings and more open terrain. The area sits at elevations between 700-1,300 feet above sea level with typical summer temperatures ranging from 65-85°F. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region's valleys and ridges, with stronger coverage typically available at higher elevation campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides direct access to hiking paths suitable for various skill levels. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," notes Paulene-Amanda M. of Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Visit nearby attractions: The Jersey City area offers unique urban camping with city access. "There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F. There is a great market about 1/4 of a mile away, and the path that can take you to WTC or 33rd Street area is only a mile away," shares Shawn B. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds feature natural settings where wildlife can be observed. "The gem is the beautiful grounds, river, and parklike setting. Lots of wildlife around," notes Jeff & Steff's Excellent Adventure about Tri-State RV Park.
What campers like
Quiet, spacious sites: Campers appreciate the roominess at certain rv sites near West Milford, New Jersey. "Sites are very large and I suggest site 7. It is on a hill so have a hand truck or a few people to carry stuff. Trust me it is worth it and I think it's the best tent site they have," recommends Christina L. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Family-friendly facilities: Pleasant Acres Farm Campground offers unique amenities that appeal to families. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," writes Faith D. The campground also features "a great swimming pool and ping pong" according to Ethan K.
Convenient urban camping: For those seeking proximity to New York City, certain campgrounds offer strategic locations. "Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless," states Joe R. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
What you should know
Off-season limitations: Winter camping options exist but with reduced services. "Open during the winter. Easy on, easy off. Lots of pull through sites. CLEAN bathrooms, showers, laundry. Super nice owners," notes BENdejo ~. about Tri-State RV Park.
Highway noise concerns: Some RV parks prioritize highway access over quiet settings. "Located just off the highway so lots of vehicle noise 24/7. Sites are on a gravel lot," cautions Michael H. about Tri-State RV Park. Similarly, another review notes, "While the staff is very friendly and polite you are basically in a old parking lot right below the freeway."
Reservation timing: During peak summer and fall foliage seasons, advanced planning becomes crucial for securing spots at popular campgrounds. Sites tend to fill up particularly on weekends from June through October.
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Children often enjoy the farm animals at certain campgrounds. "The grounds are up on top of a mountain and is quite beautiful and quiet. This is a great place to get away and bring your family and dogs," reports Ethan K. about Pleasant Acres Farm Campground, adding details about "the amazingly beautiful miniature horse that wonders around its huge pin located in the middle of the campground."
Activity options: Thousand Trails Rondout Valley provides numerous family activities. "This campground is great. Lots of activities a pool access, food court and basketball courts," notes Kaitlin B. Another camper mentions, "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish."
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated spaces for children. Mountain Top RV Park features "a small playground that would be better suited for older children, and there's also a nice lounge room with games, a pool table, a tv and puzzles/board games," according to @HomegrownRV.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Black Bear RV Park in nearby Florida, NY provides complete hookups year-round. "Have stayed here several times - great location and nice, full hook-up sites. Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs," notes Dave S.
Water connection distances: Some campgrounds require longer hoses but provide solutions. "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," explains antruze about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Dump station access: For RVs requiring waste disposal, accessibility varies between parks. "Trash is located off site in a pullout on the road you drive in on," notes Coffee&Camping T. about Pleasant Acres Farm, while Mahlon Dickerson offers a "dump station [that] has a flush hose point."
Navigational considerations: Mountain Top RV Park requires careful planning when arriving. "If you're booking, it may be best to book on the upper levels because the lower area where we were did flood pretty bad a couple times when there was a lot of rain," advises @HomegrownRV.
