Near Cedar Grove, New Jersey, RV campgrounds typically operate from April through October, with some staying open year-round. Most sites accommodate RVs under 45 feet, though accessibility varies by location. The region offers wooded settings with varying degrees of privacy and terrain challenges, particularly for larger units navigating tree-lined roads.
What to do
Beach access at Beaver Pond Campground: A sandy beach at nearby Welch Lake offers swimming with lifeguard supervision during summer months. "A quick 40 minutes north of NYC, Harriman State Park has an eclectic little campground called Beaver Pond. The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out," notes Steve W.
Farm animal interactions: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort provides opportunities to interact with farm animals. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," writes Faith D. Children especially enjoy these encounters, providing educational experiences alongside traditional camping activities.
Hiking at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation: Well-maintained trails suitable for various skill levels surround the campground. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," shares Paulene-Amanda M. The reservation offers multiple trail options leading to scenic viewpoints and water features.
What campers like
Large, level sites at Mahlon Dickerson: Campsites feature concrete pads and spacious wooded areas. "Very clean and quiet. 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," reports antruze.
NYC transit access from Liberty Harbor RV Park: The urban location provides multiple transit options for city exploration. "This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," explains Joe R. Many campers appreciate the strategic position for day trips despite the tight spacing.
Platform tent sites at Beaver Pond: Raised platforms keep tents dry during 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," writes Ethan K.
What you should know
Bear awareness at Harriman State Park: The area has active wildlife including bears. "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.
Seasonal bathroom closures: Some RV parks close facilities during winter months. "The restrooms were closed for the winter, so we didn't get to use or see those," notes @HomegrownRV about Mountain Top RV Park. Always check facility status when booking off-season stays.
Site flooding during heavy rain: Lower elevation sites may experience water accumulation. "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 from their Mountain Top RV Park experience.
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters for kids: Farms with petting areas provide extra entertainment. "My daughter loved the horses and goats," shares Erin S. about Pleasant Acres Farm. These interactions often become highlight experiences for younger campers.
Playground availability: Check for play structures when booking with children. "There is a small playground, a mini golf, and a large dog walk," notes Bill B. about Pleasant Acres. Structured recreation areas help keep children engaged between hiking or swimming activities.
Noise levels vary by location: Some campgrounds maintain stricter quiet hours than others. "There is a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers. Quiet time at night is laughable as the enjoyment of being in nature rages on into the early morning," reports Steve W. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Tips from RVers
Highway proximity considerations: Highway noise impacts some sites substantially. "While the staff is very friendly and polite you are basically in a old parking lot right below the freeway. Very easy to get on & off the highway but loud highway noise almost all night," warns Rick G. about Tri-State RV Park.
Turning radius challenges: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. "When you leave you have to drive the wrong way in the campground because of the low hanging trees the correct direction," reports Bill B. about Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort. Larger Class A motorhomes and fifth wheels should call ahead to confirm navigability.
Waste management planning: Dump station locations and access vary significantly between RV campgrounds near Cedar Grove. "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use," mentions Shawn B. about Liberty Harbor. Plan accordingly if staying multiple nights without sewer hookups.
