Liberty Harbor RV Park provides urban camping access for visitors to New York City, located in Jersey City with 90 sites at a higher price point than rural alternatives. The campground sits within a marina parking area with gravel surfaces and offers 30-amp and 50-amp electric service. Urban RV camping near Cranford, New Jersey provides convenient access to Manhattan attractions while allowing travelers to avoid high-cost hotel accommodations.
What to do
Ferry to Manhattan exploration: From Liberty Harbor RV Park, campers can access ferry services to explore Manhattan. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Staff is average, as this is not meant to be high end," notes Joe R. The ferry service location makes city exploration straightforward without dealing with vehicle traffic.
Liberty State Park visits: Liberty Harbor's proximity to Liberty State Park provides opportunities for evening walks with skyline views. "Short drive to Liberty Park where we got out and walked at night to admire the city skyline and Statue of Liberty at night," mentions Erc L.
Brooklyn exploration: From Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront, campers can walk to subway connections. "There's a metro station within a 10-minute walk. The area feels safe and is pedestrian friendly, even at night," reports Amy P. The Brooklyn location offers different urban experiences than Manhattan.
What campers like
Urban skyline views: Campers appreciate the urban views from waterfront locations. At Skyline RV Camp, "the view of the skyline across the water is spectacular," according to Amy P. The nighttime views of illuminated skyscrapers create a unique camping backdrop.
Transportation connectivity: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides a natural setting with city access. "Quiet. Close to train to N. Y. City," notes Nancymike K. This combination allows campers to experience both forest settings and urban attractions.
Simplified city access: Campers value avoiding driving in dense urban areas. "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else," explains Keith and Tia S. The convenience factor outweighs basic amenities for most visitors.
What you should know
Site spacing limitations: Urban RV parks typically feature compact sites. At Liberty Harbor, "Sites very close to one another. Close to ferry for downtown and Statue of Liberty," reports Missy S. Space constraints are common at urban locations.
Navigation challenges: Driving larger RVs through urban areas requires planning. At Black Bear RV Park, "Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs. A little expensive but everything is included," notes Dave S. Access routes should be researched before arrival.
Facility limitations: Urban campgrounds prioritize location over amenities. At Skyline RV Camp, "There was only 1 bathroom with small shower for all guests, however they are in the process of adding 5 more," mentions arlene S. Expectations should be adjusted accordingly.
Seasonal availability: Some military campgrounds operate seasonally. NWS Earle RV Park operates "April 1 to November 15" according to listing information. Confirm operational dates when planning trips outside summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Security considerations: Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center RV Sites offers secure environments for families. "Quiet, spacious, no frills. We stayed in site #1 with our 21' travel trailer. In our opinion this is the best site because you have an unobstructed view of Stockton Lake & the horizon over the ocean," shares Jessica D.
Recreational opportunities: Suburban campgrounds provide family activities alongside city access. "Large levelled spaces but a little muddy. Good for a quiet, relaxing weekend; not very close to attractions otherwise. My daughter loved the horses and goats," notes Erin S. about Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort.
Halloween camping: Some campgrounds maintain family-friendly environments during holiday periods. "The area feels safe and is pedestrian friendly, even at night (we were there Halloween night and we took our kids out trick-or-treating just outside the gate)," reports Amy P. about Skyline RV Camp.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, site location affects the camping experience. "Our site 30 is overgrown with weeds as were most of the sites although it had been mowed," notes Bill B. Request specific sites based on recent visitor feedback.
Utility connections: RVers should prepare for potential water and sewer connection challenges. "Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection," shares Jeffrey about NWS Earle RV Park. Extension hoses may be necessary.
City approach routes: Plan specific routes when approaching urban campgrounds. "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. Navigation apps may not account for height restrictions or low clearances.
Winter camping limitations: For off-season camping, verify utility availability. "We arrived after 8pm but I had called ahead to confirm our reservation. Unfortunately at this site, the heated water pipe was broken so we had no water for the night," reports Gabbie Y. about Black Bear RV Park's winter operations.
