S’more Summer, Please

These campgrounds are perfect for pitching a tent, toasting marshmallows and making the most of August.
Cheryl De Leon,
2 Smore Summer

There’s something about an August evening that practically begs for a campfire. The days are still long, the nights are warm and back-to-school schedules and routines have yet to take over. It’s the perfect time to pack up the tent, gather the family—or a few good friends—and spend a night under the stars. (We suggest trying it on Global Sleep Under the Stars, Aug. 8.)

The good news? You don’t have to travel far to enjoy a classic camping getaway. From peaceful retreats to wooded campsites just a short drive from Bergen County, there are plenty of nearby spots where you can unplug, roast marshmallows and make the most of the last stretch of summer. Here are a few of our favorite places to pitch a tent.

In Bergen County

  • Campgaw Mountain County Reservation, Mahwah. More than a dozen campsites are available (permit required) now through November, giving visitors all-day access to the 1,373 wooded park. Once your site is set up, enjoy activities like hiking, archery and disc golf.
  • Camp Glen Gray, Mahwah. This campground within the Ramapo Mountains is closed this weekend, but you can make a reservation for later this season. The site features cabins, lean-tos and tent sites. Beyond camping, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, boating and exploring.
  • Ramapo Valley County Reservation, Mahwah. Like Campgaw, this park has plenty of hiking trails and fishing spots, all accessible from the nine camping sites (permit required). It’s one of the county’s most popular parks, so be sure to check and make your reservations ahead of time.

Beyond Bergen

  • Beaver Pond Campground, Stony Point, N.Y. Just outside of Harriman State Park, this site lets you get one with nature while providing amenities for those not ready to “rough it out” in the wild. It features tent and trailer sites, cabins, comfort stations, showers, laundry facilities plus recreation activities like swimming, picnicking and more.
  • Camp Wyanokie, West Milford. This rustic spot is an adventure: There’s no running water, restrooms, electricity nor Wi-Fi. Instead, guests have at their disposal 150 acres of pristine woods, a 5-acre lake, hiking trails, fire pits and charcoal grills.
  • Cheesequake State Park, Matawan. Reservations here give guests access to sites with fire rings, upright grills and picnic tables. Showers and restroom facilities are within walking distance, as are swimming areas, hiking trails and mountain biking paths.
  • Family Camping, New York City. Enjoy overnight camping on select dates in New York City parks. Bring family and friends and join Urban Park Rangers at sites like Central Park in Manhattan, Alley Pond Adventure Course in Queens, Blue Heron Nature Center in Staten Island, Van Cortlandt Parn in the Bronx and Salt Marsh Nature Center in Brooklyn. Advance registration is required.
  • Rifle Camp Park, Woodland Park. Overnight camping by permit at this Passaic County park includes lean-to platform sheds, grills, fire pits and restrooms. Camp solo or bring your closest pals for a memorable stay.

Share your favorite camping photos with us on Instagram @bergenmagnj.

Categories: Bergen Health & Life