Campgaw Campgrounds

Campgaw Campgrounds, nestled within the expansive 1,373-acre Campgaw Mountain Reservation in Mahwah, New Jersey, offers one of the most accessible and scenic outdoor experiences in the North Jersey region. As a premier destination for local residents and visitors alike, this campground provides a unique opportunity to disconnect from the suburban hustle without traveling far from home. Managed by the Bergen County Department of Parks, the area is characterized by its lush deciduous forests, rugged terrain, and the distinctive silhouette of Campgaw Mountain itself, which rises as a volcanically formed peak providing a stunning backdrop for all types of campers.

For those living in the New York metropolitan area or the surrounding New Jersey counties, Campgaw Campgrounds serves as a vital green lung. The atmosphere here is one of quiet immersion, where the sounds of the highway are replaced by the rustle of leaves and the occasional call of local wildlife. The campground is designed to cater to a wide range of outdoor skill levels, from seasoned backpackers to families introducing their children to the joys of sleeping under the stars. Because it is part of a larger county reservation, campers enjoy the added benefit of extensive recreational infrastructure that spans both active and passive leisure activities.

Location and accessibility are among the strongest attributes of Campgaw Campgrounds. Located conveniently in Mahwah, NJ 07430, the park is easily reached via major New Jersey thoroughfares such as Route 17 and Interstate 287. Its proximity to the George Washington Bridge—approximately 18 miles north—makes it a favored "quick getaway" for those who want to experience the wilderness without a multi-hour drive. The facility is committed to being inclusive, offering a wheelchair-accessible entrance and dedicated wheelchair-accessible parking lots to ensure that the beauty of the Ramapo Mountains is available to everyone.

The layout of the campground is integrated thoughtfully into the wooded slopes. While the mountain reaches an elevation of 752 feet, the camping areas are situated to provide a sense of privacy and seclusion. Visitors will find that the park is well-marked with signage, making navigation simple for those arriving for the first time. The transition from the residential neighborhoods of Mahwah to the deep woods of the reservation is remarkably swift, providing an immediate sense of arrival into a natural sanctuary.

Campgaw Campgrounds offers a variety of services intended to make the camping experience both safe and enjoyable. Whether you are looking for a primitive tent site or a bit more shelter, the park’s management ensures that the basic needs of modern campers are met. The services offered include:

• Seasonal campsite permits issued by the Bergen County Division of Parks, typically available from April through November.
• Dedicated camping areas for individuals, families, and organized groups such as scouts.
• Professional park ranger oversight to ensure the safety of guests and the protection of the natural environment.
• Waste management and trash removal services to maintain a "leave no trace" environment.
• Permit-based archery range access for those looking to practice their skills during their stay.
• Snow removal and trail maintenance during the transition seasons to ensure safe access to the grounds.
• Information services and maps provided at the park office to help guests navigate the 1,373-acre wooded reservation.

The features and highlights of Campgaw Campgrounds go far beyond simple overnight lodging. The facility is part of a multi-use recreational hub that changes with the seasons, offering highlights that appeal to a diverse demographic. Some of the most notable features include:

• A variety of campsite types, including traditional tent sites and several Adirondack-style lean-tos for those seeking a sturdier shelter.
• Extensive hiking trail networks with varying levels of difficulty, including kid-friendly hikes that are perfect for young explorers.
• A professional-grade disc golf course that winds through the wooded mountain terrain, offering a challenging experience for enthusiasts.
• Catch-and-release fishing opportunities (with a valid NJ state fishing license) for a quiet afternoon by the water.
• On-site amenities such as public restrooms and running water to provide essential comfort during your stay.
• Designated picnic areas equipped for both small family lunches and larger community gatherings.
• Unique winter features nearby, including a downhill ski area, snowboarding terrain, and snow tubing runs during the colder months.

If you are planning a visit or need to secure a permit for a campsite, it is essential to contact the Bergen County Department of Parks or the Campgaw Mountain Reservation office. Permits are required for all overnight stays and should be arranged in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak weekend periods. You can find the park and reach out via the following information:

• Address: 200 Campgaw Rd, Mahwah, NJ 07430, USA
• Phone: (201) 807-5825
• Seasonal Ski Info: (201) 327-7800

What is worth choosing about Campgaw Campgrounds is the sheer versatility of the experience it offers. It is rare to find a location in Northern New Jersey where you can enjoy primitive camping, high-quality hiking, and specialized sports like disc golf and archery all in one place. For families, it is worth choosing because of the "Good for kids" designation; the trails are manageable for smaller legs, and the environment is safe and well-monitored. It provides an excellent educational opportunity for children to learn about local geology and New Jersey’s native plant and animal species.

Additionally, the value of the experience is unmatched for those who want a true mountain feel without the logistical burden of a long expedition. The Adirondack lean-tos are a particular highlight, providing a nostalgic and rugged camping vibe that is often hard to find outside of the distant mountains of New York or Vermont. By choosing Campgaw, you are supporting the preservation of Bergen County’s natural heritage while treating yourself to a restorative break. Whether you are there to conquer the disc golf course, fish in the early morning mist, or simply enjoy a campfire with friends, Campgaw Campgrounds provides the perfect New Jersey backdrop for making lasting outdoor memories.