RV camping near Fanwood, New Jersey offers options for travelers seeking convenient access to New York City while maintaining a more affordable base camp. Most sites in the area provide water and electric hookups, with varying levels of service from 30-amp to 50-amp connections. Space between units tends to be minimal at urban locations, while sites farther from the city generally offer more room and natural surroundings.
What to do
Ferry access to Manhattan: At Liberty Harbor RV Park, a ferry located just 100 yards away transports campers to Wall Street on weekdays. "There is a ferry 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F. There is a great market about 1/4 of a mile away, and the path that can take you to WTC or 33rd Street area is only a mile away," notes Shawn B.
Waterfront exploration: Visit Liberty Park near Jersey City for evening strolls. "Short drive to Liberty Park where we got out and walked at night to admire the city skyline and Statue of Liberty at night," reports Erc L. who stayed at Liberty Harbor.
Hiking trails: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers multiple hiking options including lake access. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," writes Paulene-Amanda M. The Headley Overlook trail provides scenic vistas within walking distance of campsites.
What campers like
Convenient NYC access: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides multiple public transportation options. "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. Shopping & restraunts are right next door," shares Emily L.
Spacious woodland sites: In contrast to urban options, Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers more natural camping with good separation between sites. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that," writes one reviewer. Another notes, "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods a bit from the pad that you park on."
Military facilities: Active duty and retired military personnel can access NWS Earle RV Park in Colts Neck. "Small campground W/ 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio," according to Jeffrey.
What you should know
Urban camping limitations: Liberty Harbor functions primarily as a base for city exploration rather than a nature experience. "So... the 'campground' is nothing special. Literally a parking lot with water & electric hookups. Larger rigs will barely have a yard. And don't bet on a private picnic table," explains Ericka T.
Navigation challenges: The Brooklyn Skyline RV Camp location has moved. "Be advised that Skyline RV Camp has moved to: 50 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222. The original property location at 2 Oak St was sold and is now private property," warns John T. This matters for GPS navigation when traveling from Fanwood.
Seasonal availability: Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center RV Sites offers waterfront views but operates only during summer months. Jessica D. explains, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Animal interactions: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort provides opportunities for children to interact with farm animals. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," shares Faith D. Another reviewer mentioned, "Playground, hayride, animals to feed (goats, chickens, donkey and pony)."
Nature experiences: For families wanting woodland camping, Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers natural surroundings with easy hiking. "There are plenty of trails, water (creeks, pond, lake) views and even if the place is packed there is PLENTY of room," states John S.
Activity planning: Some campgrounds offer scheduled children's events. Janelle G. notes at Pleasant Acres, "There were some organized activities which was nice, not as much as a Jellystone Park."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Liberty Harbor, end sites offer slightly more space. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," advises Keith and Tia S.
Utility considerations: Sewer connections at some sites present challenges. Jessica D. notes at Military Park, "Only annoying thing was the sewer hookup is about 18 inches off the ground so you need to lift the hose when emptying the tanks to ensure it actually fully drains."
Road navigation: When planning routes around the area, use RV-specific navigation. "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," recommends Joe R. who stayed at Liberty Harbor.
