90 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping options around Elizabeth, New Jersey primarily consist of established campgrounds rather than dispersed camping areas, with several mixed-use facilities located within an hour's drive of the city. Liberty Harbor RV Park in nearby Jersey City offers urban camping with views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty, while Cheesequake State Park Campground provides a more natural setting about 20 miles south. Most developed campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with a few locations like Collective Governors Island offering cabin and glamping options for those seeking upgraded amenities.
Seasonal restrictions affect many campgrounds in the area, with several operating only from April through October or November. "This park is on the list of 50 top NJ Hikes, and it has a few great trails," notes one visitor about Cheesequake State Park. Access to campgrounds varies significantly—Liberty Harbor RV Park offers easy urban accessibility with public transit connections to Manhattan, while more rural options like Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold Township provide a more secluded experience. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends when facilities near New York City fill quickly. Weather conditions remain moderate throughout camping season, though summer humidity can be challenging.
Campers consistently mention the urban-adjacent nature of camping near Elizabeth as both a benefit and limitation. The proximity to New York City makes these campgrounds practical bases for exploring urban attractions while having a more affordable overnight option. Several visitors noted that Liberty Harbor RV Park is "basically a parking lot" but valued its location above all else. More traditional camping experiences can be found at locations like Mahlon Dickerson Reservation or Round Valley State Park Campground, which offer more natural settings with hiking trails and water features. Reviews frequently mention the trade-offs between convenience and tranquility, with campgrounds closer to the city providing excellent access but less seclusion than those further into New Jersey's more rural areas. Most developed campgrounds provide standard amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and bathroom facilities.
"This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."
"Basicly a parking lot, but the location can't be beat. 2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you yyo manhatten."
from $145 - $180 / night
Check Availability"I stayed at Cheesequake at the beginning of August and had a very positive experience."
"This park is on the list of 50 top NJ Hikes, and it has a few great trails. The trails range from easy to moderate with quite a few lookout locations."
from $200 / night
Check Availability"Once you are there, you can walk right across the street to a bayside inlet and sandy shore that is not highly trafficked because no one can park there except those using the campground."
"Rangers at the entrance regulate admittance thus, providing a safe environment within the confines of the base."
from $30 - $50 / night
Check Availability"You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a nigh light. The camp here has 7 campsites here and it fill up really fast."
"this place is awesome when it comes to finding an affordable place to stay while in NY, this camp ground isnt your usual forest camp sites, however there are some beautiful views, and it is located in"
from $30 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $529 - $1200 / night
Check Availability"A little intimidating driving in to a nondescript gate at the end of a narrow street but the overall experience exceeded expectation."
from $130 / night
Check Availability"We stayed in New Jersey for our 5th campground on the East Coast: Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold. This is a County park.
Near some Revolutionary War battlefields.
I really liked this park!"
"Electrical and water are at the outer edge of each site so you might want an extension cord and/or hose."
from $42 - $79 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $85 - $120 / night
Check Availability"Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large."
"It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities."
"The crystal-clear water is home to huge lake trout and the forests are bursting with wildlife. The sunsets across the lake are to die for."
"Once you get to the campground trail it’s pretty easy going on asphalt surface."
ScoutAs far as experience it was good. The main issue was the campsite where we were was uneven and caused many of the sleeping arrangements that we had to be not level. This seems to be a specific issue to the group campsite number two as when we went inwards it seemed like everything else was much better.
ScoutNo hookups. It was wooded, quiet and dark at night. I used the dump station on my way out. The first time I ever saw a poop fountain. The sewer opening sticks up above ground level. The cover swivels away, so I couldn't put it on top of my hose. And then, when I tried to rinse it, there was nowhere for it to go, because the inlet is elevated.
ScoutI spent 4 days and 3 nights with my 6th grade Girl Scouts. We were at sites 23 and 24 which worked out great because they back up against each other. The bathrooms were super clean and well maintained. There are outlets at the bathroom building by the sink to charge any electronics. The playground is adequate and the field is big for playing. There are many things to do close by too like the observatory, Round Valley beach, Grounds for Art, etc. We all really enjoyed ourselves and plan on returning.
ScoutStayed three nights in a tent and enjoyed it very much. Sites have electrical hookups, shared water connections, large picnic table, and fire ring with adjustable grate. Electrical and water are at the outer edge of each site so you might want an extension cord and/or hose. Bathrooms are clean; showers have separate stalls but they’re clustered together (not the most private). There are hiking and biking trails, a lake, and archery park. Staff are friendly. Office is open through 9pm, and firewood, ice, and bait for fishing are available. Site C3 is in an okay spot; it’s close to the bathroom and laundry room, but also right next to the playground. We were able to visit the beach; easy 25 minute drive to Asbury Park.
RangerThis is an A.T. shelter and campsite. First come, first served. Privy was nice. Flat tentsites for 6 or more. Good for Hammocking also.
RangerI've visited the MOC a bunch of times, and have taken training classes here also. There are campsites for tent camping, cabin stays where you can rent a whole cabin or rent a bunk in a cabin with others. There is a store as well as food options. It's a great place to visit whether you grab a meal, a bunk, or just take a hike. The Appalachian Trail crosses through here also.
TravelerBeautiful park and very peaceful. Rangers are super friendly. This is exactly what camping should be.
ScoutThe main issue with the sites was that they were primitive -- no water. The campsites were basically just wooden platforms, with a picnic table and fire pit. There were also a lot of bugs, though this may be due to the rain. The location itself was fairly pretty and there were a number of hiking trails of not-overly-serious difficulty. The particular site we picked left is a little farther from our car than we would have liked, but for other sites you can bring your car closer.
TravelerThe campground was closed in 2024 for renovations. It is now open. I did a tour of the campgrounds but did not stay there. FYI, generators are NOT allowed at all at this campground. I did not see electric or water hookups. There are three loops. Each has it pros/cons. Sites 30-33 are near the bathroom facilities, sites 34-50 are more secluded, sites 52-65 are closer to the lake.
Camping areas near Elizabeth, New Jersey include both rustic wilderness sites and paved, basic camping options within an hour's drive. The region sits at elevations between sea level and 400 feet, with humidity levels averaging 65-75% during summer camping months. Most campsites in this metropolitan-adjacent region require advance reservations, particularly for summer weekends when temperatures typically range from 75-85°F.
Hike the trails and visit lookouts: Round Valley State Park Campground offers multiple trails with varying difficulty levels. "The hike up in the cushetunk mountain is really nice as well. If you're looking for a getaway without doing backcountry planning this is the place," notes one visitor to Round Valley State Park Campground.
Try water activities: The reservoir at Round Valley provides opportunities for boating and fishing. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean... we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," one camper shares about their experience.
Visit urban attractions: The location of some campgrounds makes them ideal for city exploration. "Short drive to Liberty Park where we got out and walked at night to admire the city skyline and Statue of Liberty at night," notes a visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park. The park offers easy access to ferries and trains into Manhattan.
Accessibility to urban areas: Many campers appreciate the proximity to New York City. "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," says one camper about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Peaceful woodland settings: Despite being in a densely populated state, some campgrounds offer secluded experiences. A camper at Turkey Swamp Park shares, "Turkey Swamp is a great spot, a lot of different things to do. Fishing, Tent Camp, Van Camping, Open Field, BBQ, Kayaking, Canoeing. Every time I'm here I barely touch my phone."
Water recreation opportunities: Many campsites offer access to lakes or reservoirs. "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quit. Gorgeous sunset, Beautiful views," notes a visitor about Round Valley Recreation Area.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance bookings. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," explains a Turkey Swamp Park visitor.
Varying amenities: Facilities range from primitive to full-service. "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station," reports a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. "The campground was only about 20% occupied when we were there at the end of April, so our stay was a quiet one," notes a Turkey Swamp Park camper.
Wildlife concerns: Some areas have specific wildlife warnings. "There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys," mentions another Mahlon Dickerson Reservation visitor.
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Some sites have dedicated children's areas. "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," notes a camper at Turkey Swamp Park.
Consider noise levels: For families with young children, noise can be an issue. A visitor to Cheesequake State Park Campground mentions, "The Parkway is right there so its not a nice quiet place," suggesting it might be better for day trips.
Look for beginner-friendly options: Some campgrounds are ideal for first-time campers. "This is a great site for those who are not avid campers. It's close to town if you forget something and it has all the facilities you may need, bathroom, shower, etc.," shares a Cheesequake State Park visitor.
Check access and site dimensions: Not all campgrounds can accommodate large rigs. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill," notes a camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Consider urban RV options: For those wanting city access, dedicated RV parks exist. "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room," advises a visitor to Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Be prepared for water hookup challenges: Some sites require extra equipment. "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," mentions a camper at Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best camping spots in Elizabeth?
The Elizabeth area offers several excellent camping options within driving distance. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation in the Skylands region features wooded, spacious sites that are paved and mostly level - perfect for a weekend getaway or longer stays. Another top choice is Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold, which spans 2,283 acres with a 17-acre lake and hiking trails. The park offers well-maintained sites in a peaceful setting, making it ideal for nature lovers. Both locations provide a natural escape while remaining accessible to Elizabeth and surrounding attractions.
What amenities are available at Elizabeth camping grounds?
Camping grounds near Elizabeth offer a range of amenities to enhance your outdoor experience. Butterfly Camping Resort provides large playgrounds, planned activities for children, clean bathrooms, and a fishing lake. Sites feature trees and shrubs for privacy. Great Divide Campground offers scenic surroundings with a small lake and pond, surrounded by woods. Many campgrounds in the region typically provide water and electric hookups, dump stations, shower facilities, and picnic tables. Some locations also offer camp stores, laundry facilities, and recreational amenities like swimming pools or game rooms, though specifics vary by location.
Are there free camping options available in Elizabeth?
Free camping options near Elizabeth are limited but not impossible to find. Some Walmart locations like Walmart — Phillipsburg Supercenter and Walmart — Hamilton Supercenter may permit overnight parking for self-contained RVs, though this should always be confirmed with store management beforehand. For traditional camping experiences, most established campgrounds in the region do charge fees. State forests and parks like Stokes State Forest typically offer more affordable rates compared to private resorts, though they still require payment. Always check current policies and make reservations where required, as free camping regulations can change frequently.
Is there RV and pull-through camping available in Elizabeth?
Yes, there are several options for RV and pull-through camping near Elizabeth. Stokes State Forest offers multiple campgrounds, though not all areas accommodate larger RVs. Their main campgrounds can handle trailers, but the Steam Mill area is only suitable for tents or small trailers. Stephens State Park Campground provides RV sites, though it may not be ideal for bigger rigs due to size limitations. Most private campgrounds in the region are well-equipped for RVs with water and electric hookups, and many feature pull-through sites for easier access. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak camping season, to secure the best RV-friendly sites.
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