Camping options around Woodcliff Lake provide access to New Jersey's northern highlands, where elevation ranges from 400-1,200 feet. The region experiences warm summers with temperatures in the 70s-80s°F and cold winters dropping below freezing. Heavy tree cover provides natural shade at most campgrounds, making portable canopies unnecessary during summer months.
What to Do
Hiking trails: Harriman State Park offers extensive trail networks where many campers report wildlife encounters. "Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," notes Megan B. from Beaver Pond Campground.
Swimming options: Several parks maintain swimming beaches with lifeguard services during summer months. At Sebago Cabin Camp, visitors appreciate the water access: "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," according to Ethan K.
Rock scrambling: More adventurous visitors can tackle challenging terrain at Stonetown Circular trail, where "This site is about 2 miles into the hike... at the top of a fairly difficult rock scramble. I would advise packing light if making camp at this site because a heavy pack would make this scramble up the mountain even harder," explains Ethan K.
What Campers Like
Elevated platforms: Many campsites provide raised tent platforms to keep gear dry. "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," reports Ethan K.
Rustic cabins: For those wanting a compromise between comfort and wilderness, Sebago Cabin Camp offers basic shelter. "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," says Sara P.
Cell service variability: Many campers appreciate the digital disconnect at certain locations. One Sebago visitor noted: "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING," while Croton Point Park campers report consistent coverage, making it suitable for those needing to stay connected.
What You Should Know
Bear awareness: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation. "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," writes Steve W. about Beaver Pond Campground, adding "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."
Seasonal facilities: Some amenities close after peak season. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful," reports Courtney D.
Campsite variability: Research specific sites before booking as quality varies significantly. At Croton Point Park, "The tenting section and RV sites are each very clustered together, and quite crowded, with regular patrols being made day and night," according to Paul K.
Tips for Camping with Families
Supervised swimming: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Woodcliff Lake offer lifeguarded beaches for safer family swimming. "The beach is secured with lifeguards and shower and bathroom facilities are available," notes Brian O. about Beaver Pond.
Kid-friendly activities: Croton Point Park offers multiple recreation options. "There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids," mentions Andrew A.
Weekend noise levels: Family groups should consider timing their visits. "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," shares Rebecca S. about Beaver Pond, suggesting weekday visits for quieter family time.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most dog-friendly RV sites near Woodcliff Lake offer partial hookups only. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "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 one camper.
NYC access considerations: RVers visiting Liberty Harbor RV Park specifically for city access should note transportation options. "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.
Maneuverability: Check site dimensions before arrival. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill," reports Nancymike K. about Mahlon Dickerson, making it suitable for larger vehicles despite not being designed specifically for big rigs.
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