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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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.
