RV camping near Alpine, New Jersey offers access to scenic state parks and urban attractions within an hour's drive. The Hudson Valley region features deciduous forests with elevations ranging from 500-1,200 feet, creating varied camping terrain. Fall temperatures average 45-65°F, while summer camping season typically runs from April through October with daytime highs around 75-85°F.
What to do
Hiking in Harriman State Park: Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park provides access to numerous trails, including sections of the Appalachian Trail. "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal," notes camper Zorina N. The park features historical trails from the Revolutionary era.
Water activities at Fahnestock State Park: Canopus Lake at Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground has a beach with boat rentals from May to September. "They have a nice open beach on Canopus Lake with a concession area and bathhouse, which we found to be quite clean! They even have boat rentals - or you can bring your own boat to launch," says reviewer Shelly B. The park maintains several lakes and ponds for fishing.
NYC sightseeing: For urban exploration, camp near transit access points. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," says Megan B. about camping at Beaver Pond. Multiple transit options connect campers to Manhattan attractions.
What campers like
Off-season tranquility: Many campgrounds near Alpine offer a different experience outside peak times. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. 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," explains Rebecca S. about Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park.
Family-focused activities: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort offers animal encounters and organized events. "Lots of seasonals and lots of cabins, many RV sites I think all with full hookups. Playground, hayride, animals to feed (goats, chickens, donkey and pony). There were some organized activities which was nice," shares Janelle G. The campground maintains a farm setting with miniature horses and other animals.
Convenient NYC access: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides urban proximity despite basic facilities. "Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door. We brought scooters & had a great stay!" reports Emily L.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book early for weekend camping during peak season. "Make sure to reserve at least two weeks out. Weekdays? You should be in luck!" advises Shelly B. about Fahnestock State Park. Most popular campgrounds fill completely on summer weekends, especially holiday periods.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences unpredictable weather patterns even during summer. "There was a storm the night before our arrival date, all campers were evacuated and they did a fantastic job clearing all the debris and downed trees before our arrival," notes Erinn N. about Clarence Fahnestock State Park.
Wildlife awareness: Bears are active throughout the region. "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. 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," shares Steve W. about camping at Harriman State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Platform camping options: Some sites offer raised platforms for tents, improving comfort in wet conditions. "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," explains Ethan K.
Kid-friendly water features: Swimming beaches provide structured recreation for children. "Great location and quick to get to from NYC. The campsites are a bit close to one another but if you have a big group you can book several sites near each other and have a great time with family and friends. Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby," says Kelvin about Beaver Pond Campground.
Farm animal experiences: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort offers unique animal interactions not found at standard campgrounds. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," shares Faith D. The campground maintains animals that children can observe and sometimes feed.
Tips from RVers
Highway noise considerations: For light sleepers, road noise can be an issue at some locations. "Located just off the highway so lots of vehicle noise 24/7. Sites are on a gravel lot. Restrooms are clean. Not much else to say about this CG, is just a parking lot with hookups," notes Michael H. about Tri-State RV Park.
Big rig accessibility: Mountain Top RV Park accommodates larger vehicles with appropriate hookups. "We really enjoyed our stay at Mountain Top. The restrooms were closed for the winter, so we didn't get to use or see those. 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 about site selection.
Overnight convenience: Tri-State RV Park functions well for single-night stops. "Open during the winter. Easy on, easy off. Lots of pull through sites. Next to grocery store. CLEAN bathrooms, showers, laundry. Super nice owners. Perfect for an overnight stop. Yes, right off the hwy and you can hear it," explains BENdejo ~.
