Campers near Bayonne, New Jersey have limited options within the immediate area but can access several RV parks within driving distance. The urban environment presents unique challenges for RV camping with tight spaces and city traffic to navigate. Many RVers use these locations primarily as base camps for exploring New York City attractions rather than for traditional outdoor recreation experiences.
What to do
Statue of Liberty viewing: Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City offers direct views of this iconic monument. "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! Plus you can see the Statue of Liberty from there!"
NYC transit access: Multiple public transportation options make city exploration convenient from Jersey City. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze."
Outdoor hiking: For those wanting natural experiences, Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers trail access about 40 miles from Bayonne. "Very nice forest! The campground is clean, paved nicely and well run. There are some nice trails around the campground as well. If you want to decompress and get out in the woods, this is a great spot."
What campers like
Urban convenience: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides easy access to Manhattan attractions despite basic amenities. "I would give this place a 5-star review based on how convenient everything was. 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."
Military options: NWS Earle RV Park offers a quieter alternative for those with military access. "Small campground W/ 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio. It's only an hour from Manhattan & 20 more minutes from the shore."
Rural alternatives: For longer stays, campgrounds further from the city offer more traditional camping experiences. "We really like this campground. Quiet and spacious. No facilities, just a porta-jon, but i think that makes it better. Police patrolled, and dog friendly."
What you should know
Realistic expectations: Skyline RV Camp in Brooklyn has moved locations and no longer offers the advertised waterfront views. "Be advised that Skyline RV Camp has moved to: 50 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222. The original property location at 2 Oak St was sold and is now private property. There no longer is a waterfront view of the NYC skyline when camping at Skyline RV."
Limited facilities: Many urban RV parks provide minimal amenities despite high prices. "The laundry was not working properly and ate a good $5 of our quarters. We went to the office where the security guard told us that they cannot do anything and that we would need to come back when the office was open, we did that and they said they would look into it and call us back. No one did anything."
Seasonal considerations: Many regional campgrounds close during winter months. "NWS Earle RV Park operates seasonally from April 1 to November 15, with Beaver Pond Campground open from April 22 to October 9."
Tips for camping with families
City activities with kids: Beaver Pond Campground offers a beach and playground within an hour of NYC. "Great location and quick to get to from NYC. 45 minute drive and location has a lot of amenities. Full bathrooms and slop sinks throughout the campsite. The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping."
Animal encounters: Some rural sites offer animal interactions for children. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool. Weekend was busy as usual but during the week it seems to be seasonal that stay."
Noise management: Prepare for city sounds when staying at urban RV parks. "It was a little loud with city noises, but exactly what we expected being so close. Staff was great. Easy access with our 32 foot RV pulling our Jeep."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Black Bear RV Park, choosing specific sites can improve your experience. "I like our area it is quiet and the campground. I couldn't find a map prior to my booking but would suggest requesting the highest number site available for best direct views."
Hose length planning: Some campgrounds have water connections at unusual distances. "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."
Traffic navigation: RV access to urban parks requires careful planning. "The area itself was under a ton of construction when we drove in, which meant for difficult to navigate roads and we barely squeezed by larger trucks who were also in the roadways."
