Best Campgrounds near Elizabeth, NJ

Elizabeth, New Jersey has several camping options within driving distance. Camp Taylor Campground gives you good-sized sites that are shady and private. Mountain Vista Campground is good for fishing and has some nice views of the surrounding landscape. Deer Woods Campground tends to be quiet and keeps their facilities in good shape. Spring and fall are the best seasons to camp in this area when temperatures are comfortable. The summer gets hot and humid, so bring plenty of water and cooling gear if you camp then. Some camping is available in winter, though you'll find reduced services at many places. Most of the campgrounds near Elizabeth have the basics like drinking water and toilets. You can find showers at certain campgrounds if you want to clean up during your stay. Make sure to book ahead, particularly on weekends and holidays when sites fill quickly. The area works well for both tent and RV camping depending on what you prefer. Before heading out, double-check the specific rules for your chosen campground to avoid any surprises.

Best Camping Sites Near Elizabeth, New Jersey (86)

    1. Liberty Harbor RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (201) 516-7500

    $149 / night

    "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."

    2. Cheesequake State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Matawan, NJ
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 566-2161

    $200 / night

    "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."

    3. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    Atlantic Highlands, NJ
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (347) 630-1124

    $30 - $150 / night

    "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."

    4. Collective Governors Island

    5 Reviews
    Jersey City, NY
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 445-2033

    $529 - $1200 / night

    "The article also mentions the benefits of camping on Governor Island, such as feeling close to nature, relaxing and enjoying a peaceful space, away from the noise of the city."

    5. Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025

    4 Reviews
    Bayonne, NY
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (718) 354-4655

    $30 / night

    "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"

    6. Skyline RV Camp - Non-Waterfront

    2 Reviews
    New York City, NY
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (347) 434-6891

    $85 - $120 / night

    7. Turkey Swamp Park

    28 Reviews
    Freehold, NJ
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 462-7286

    $42 - $79 / night

    "   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!"

    "Heavily wooded and supremely quiet, it’s located not far from anywhere you’d want to be. 30 minutes to the shore. Every site is a pull-through, large and spacious with great woodland views. 30amp and"

    8. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation

    18 Reviews
    Jefferson, NJ
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (973) 697-3140

    "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."

    9. Round Valley State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Lebanon, NJ
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 236-6355

    "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."

    10. Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    41 Reviews
    Pomona, NY
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 947-2792

    $21 - $24 / night

    "Drive-in tent campgrounds. Adequate restroom facilities sprinkled amongst tent sites. Some campsites have raised platforms. All sites have picnic tables and fire ring with flip-top grill."

    "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."

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Recent Reviews near Elizabeth, NJ

544 Reviews of 86 Elizabeth Campgrounds


  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Round Valley State Park Campground

    Get Your Hard-Core Hiking In To Enjoy This CG

    Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feed deep in the middle, this body of water provides a solid amount of upside for anyone wanting to kayak, canoe or swim. One of the greatest assets at this particular SP CG are the wonderful rangers who keep this place in such tip-top condition year-round. From the North Picnic Area, Bray’s Hill Preserve and Round Valley Beachhead to the East Picnic Area, Round Valley Farm on the eastern side of the reservoir as well as Round Valley Rec Area, there’s a lot to explore at this SP.

    One interesting fact about this place– believe it or not– it is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping(a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles– or if you come with your own boat, you can access by water– and can be found on the SE corner of the reservoir. There is a second area nearby called Spruce Run Recreation Area that can be accessed by driving to this location, which is on the other side of I78 NW of Round Valley SP. That said, if you’re looking to camp here at Round Valley, I highly recommend you boat in as the hiking path is incredibly difficult to manage without hauling all of your camping gear, so coming in with a ton of gear is even more difficult/ prohibitive.

    When you finally do arrive to this primitive CG immersed in NJ’s thick wild foliage, you’ll experience waterfront bliss with a crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water, and you won’t get much in the way of amenities, apart from a few random water pumps and some rocks piled in a circle that, um, I guess makes up a fire ring. While there are backwoods-style bathroom pits, these are very ill-managed and you’ll come across the‘stank’ well before actually even arriving here, so we just didn’t use them. There’s picnic tables, but the one we had was in pretty rough condition. The thing I found odd about the place is that after hiking so far in to get to this location, you’re not allowed to swim in the reservoir, which kind of defeats the entire point IMHO. That said, the views are amazing and because there’s nothing else in these parts, you will experience true peace in nature.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few:(1) Whether hiking or kayaking to this CG, you will want to bring as little with you as possible– packing too much to come here just isn’t worth the work;(2) We found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly;(3) While the water in the reservoir may look crystal clear, it is not crystal clean and I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don’t get sick;(4) I have hiked throughout the entire US and consider myself somewhere between a moderate to skilled hiker and I found these trails challenging and uneven, so while the hike we made was only 3 miles, it was not easy and I would be worried about someone breaking an ankle getting to this CG– so at a minimum, ensure you are wearing proper hiking boots. Seriously, for what this SP puts you through to access this CG one really needs to question why they’re being charged anything at all in the first place.

    Happy Camping!

  • J
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Fantastic camping ground

    We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn’t even use mosquito repellent and didn’t get a single bite! The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!

  • Paul K.
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Croton Point Park

    Not the Best Place to Go in the Northeast By a Longshot

    Croton Point Campground is a modest little campground, located along the Hudson River within Croton Point Park in NY. In addition to camping, the park itself offers many of its own attractions, including swimming, hiking, kayaking, cabin rentals, and a host of other family-oriented activities just along the Hudson. 

    The park, which is honestly probably the largest attraction here, is located just an hour and a half outside of the city. This proximity is both its perk and its downfall, as the park itself, but particularly the campground, has become laden with all sorts of inexplicable and burdensome rules, endless guidelines, and restrictions only a New York State-run bureaucracy could ever make sense of, let alone hope to justify. 

    This includes all manner of restrictions on how you can camp, where you can camp, what equipment can be used, and use in relation to what particular site you may have been lucky enough to reserve. Much of this you can understand while imagining what may have taken place here to bring them to such measures, but it doesn't make it any easier to contend with. 

    In terms of the actual camping conditions Both the tenting section and RV sites are each very clustered together, and quite crowded, with regular patrols🚓(actual patrols) being made day and night, by both the Park Rangers and what appears to be general park staff members, all looking to see if you or your family might be doing something that they might consider outside of the guidelines or not in compliance with the many restrictions. 

    This is not to say you can't possibly have a good time here. It just might mean being a bit more diligent toward reviewing the potential legitimacy of your normal camping routine to ensure it meets with many restrictions and guidelines imposed, while also making yourself comfortable with some fairly regular surveillance during your stay here. These all being things we hoped to get away from while camping ourselves It just turned out to be a bit much for our particular liking.

  • Bob F.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Moon Valley Campground

    Very unique smaller private campground

    This was a great campsite nestled in the foothills of Northern NJ on the NY border. Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking , cruising etc. Bring your tent or use the existing glamping tents. Headed back for a fall weekend in the "dome" which has incredible views. Try it you won't be sorry.

  • Carrie H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Panther Lake Camping Resort

    Horrid showers

    Probably the worst shower ever. The lights are timed. The water is a button. The space is small as hell.

  • Howard P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 16, 2025

    Adventure Bound Camping (Tall Pines)

    Beautiful and family oriented

    My wife and I, residing near the Commodore Barry, sought a brief respite. Our thirteen-year-old son was unable to join us, so we proceeded without him. We secured site 53, a deluxe site offering ample space for our 29VBUD and Ram. The site was level and meticulously maintained, as were the dirt roads. The atmosphere was tranquil and relaxing. Numerous children and abundant activities kept them engaged. Our son truly missed a delightful experience. We departed on Sunday, but the serene ambiance almost prompted us to extend our stay. The sounds of families creating memories enhanced our enjoyment. We certainly plan to return when our grandson is older.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 5, 2025

    Black Bear RV Park

    Under construction

    I would rate this a 5 when they’re finished with the upgrades. Unfortunately there was nothing on this saying that they have limited spaces due to construction or that they changed the name. We passed it up at first. A little pricey just for an overnight and since no amenities were available. It will be beautiful when they’re finished. Can’t wait to come back and give them a 5 star review! The best part was at dusk when the animals came out!

  • Rara B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 5, 2025

    Military Park Fort Dix Range 14 Camp

    Park & go

    We stayed here in November-December to do some exploring around Jersey. Not a lot going on at the fam camp. Clean and gravel. Lots of military training nearby but overall a quiet stay. On the beaten path but a bit further into the trees so you’re not hearing so much road noise.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 5, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Turkey Swamp State Park Campground

    Great campground! Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest. There are tent and RV sites and you are allowed to have a tent on the site with an RV at no extra charge. The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained. There is pretty lake with good fishing and they sell bait at the Ranger office. There are lots of trails and the packed dirt roads are nice for bike riding. There are playgrounds and picnic areas as well. This is a lovely campground.


Guide to Elizabeth

Camping near Elizabeth, NJ, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different preferences.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Worthington State Forest Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The trails are nice and well marked," making it a great spot for both beginners and experienced hikers.
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Mountain Vista Campground. A camper shared, "There's a pond for fishing (catch & release)," perfect for a relaxing day by the water.
  • Swimming: While some campgrounds don’t allow swimming, you can find nearby lakes for a refreshing dip. One reviewer at Turkey Swamp Park noted, "The lake has fishing & boat rentals," which adds to the fun.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Beaver Pond Campground said, "I enjoy the beach/lakefront, and regularly cleaned bathroom and shower facilities."
  • Privacy: Many campers enjoy the spacious sites. One reviewer at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation mentioned, "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Camp Taylor Campground are praised for their welcoming vibe. A family shared, "The kids are kids!!! They play in the creek, get dirty, build fires and hike on the premises."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds have strict noise policies. A camper at High Point State Park Campground experienced issues with noise complaints, stating, "We received complaints about the volume of our music and karaoke."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds offer full amenities. A visitor at Stokes State Forest noted, "The bathrooms were nice and had flush toilets, but the showers were out of service during my time."
  • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of wildlife, especially bears. One camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation mentioned, "There are a lot of bear warnings here," so keep food secured.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Camp Taylor Campground, which has activities for kids. A parent shared, "The kids immediately took to exploring the creek and woods behind our campsite."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. One family at Mountain Vista Campground enjoyed the "game room" for kids, making it a hit for family bonding.
  • Pack Snacks and Meals: Having food ready can save time and keep everyone happy. A camper at Turkey Swamp Park mentioned, "The bathrooms were clean and well stocked," which is helpful for family needs.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Clarence Fahnestock State Park advised, "Careful which site you choose," as some sites may not accommodate larger rigs.
  • Be Prepared for Terrain: Some campgrounds have rugged roads. A visitor at Stokes State Forest noted, "The camping areas are split between two different entrances," which can be tricky for RV access.
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials before arriving. A camper at Mountain Vista Campground mentioned, "Wooded sites... friendly staff," but having your own supplies can enhance the experience.

Camping near Elizabeth, NJ, offers a variety of experiences, from peaceful retreats to family adventures. Whether you're tent camping or RVing, there's something for everyone in this beautiful 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.