RV camping near Bloomingdale, New Jersey offers access to the northern New Jersey Highlands region with elevations reaching 1,400 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through October, with a few year-round options available during winter when temperatures frequently drop below freezing. Water connections at many facilities are winterized from November through March.
What to do
Hiking the trail system: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation features interconnected hiking trails through wooded terrain. "There are plenty of trails, water (creeks, pond, lake) views and even if the place is packed there is PLENTY of room," notes John S., who appreciates the natural setting without resort-style amenities.
View NYC skyline: From Skyline RV Camp in Brooklyn, campers can access metropolitan attractions with minimal driving. "The view of the skyline across the water is spectacular and there's a metro station within a 10-minute walk. The area feels safe and is pedestrian friendly, even at night," explains Amy P.
Visit Liberty State Park: Jersey City's Liberty Harbor RV Park provides access to nearby Liberty State Park. "Short drive to Liberty Park where we got out and walked at night to admire the city skyline and Statue of Liberty at night," shares Erc L., who appreciated the convenient location.
What campers like
Affordable forest camping: Jefferson Township's Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers lower-cost camping with basic amenities. "Very cheap as well. $15/night on Memorial Day weekend! You won't be disappointed! Make sure to visit Headley overlook and hike the awesome trials that surround the campsites," recommends Christina L.
Farm animals for entertainment: Sussex's Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort features on-site livestock. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," reports Faith D., who enjoyed the rural atmosphere despite being "a bit out here in the middle of nowhere, 15-20 minutes from any town."
Urban accessibility: Tri-State RV Park in Matamoras, Pennsylvania provides convenient highway access for overnight stays. "Easy on and off on I 84. Great place to pull in for the night if you are traveling. Safe, clean, and right on the Delaware River. Groceries and Home Depot close buy if you need to restock," notes Dave B.
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Several campgrounds near major roads experience traffic noise. "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," explains Michael H. about his stay at Tri-State RV Park.
Limited facilities at urban locations: Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront has minimal amenities despite its prime location. "There were portable showers available but beware the broken shower head holders and lack of shelving/hooks for towels & clothing. This was a minor issue considering the convenience of RV accommodations so easily accessible within the NYC region," shares Amy P.
Cell service variability: Reception strength differs significantly by location and carrier. While most urban locations near Jersey City and Matamoras offer reliable service, more remote campgrounds may have weaker signals, particularly in mountainous areas.
Tips for camping with families
Look for animal interactions: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort offers children the chance to interact with farm animals. "Lots of seasonals and lots of cabins, many RV sites I think all with full hookups. There were some organized activities which was nice, not as much as a Jellystone Park," reports Janelle G., who enjoyed the family-friendly activities despite garbage disposal challenges.
Consider reservoir recreation options: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides easy access to nearby water features. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful. Definitely come here when you get a chance," recommends Paulene-Amanda M., who appreciates the campground's small but secluded nature.
Choose sites away from noise: When booking at roadside campgrounds, request sites furthest from highways. Many reviewers note traffic noise as a primary drawback at several locations, particularly at Tri-State RV Park and some urban facilities.
Tips from RVers
Urban camping challenges: Liberty Harbor RV Park requires careful navigation in the metropolitan area. "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," advises Joe R., who found the location valuable despite tight quarters.
Winter hookup limitations: Facilities operating year-round often modify water connections in winter. At Black Bear RV Park in Florida, New York, winter campers may encounter restrictions. "We are returning to the south after spending a couple months of fall in New England... At this site, the heated water pipe was broken so we had no water for the night," reports Gabbie Y.
Hookup quality variations: Mountain Top RV Park offers reliable connections but varies by site location. "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," suggests a reviewer who otherwise enjoyed their stay.