Gateway National Recreation Area provides pet-friendly camping options within 40 miles of New York City. The area features both urban and natural settings, with most campgrounds open from April through October or November. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F, with cooler nights around 60-65°F. Proximity to water means higher humidity levels than inland locations.
What to do
Beach access with pets: Nickerson Beach Park Campground allows camping with dogs but restricts pets from the beach area. "They have a small dog run on the other side of the large beach parking lot. Very clean, friendly employees," notes Theresa G. The campground offers direct beach access just steps from RV sites.
Lake activities: Turkey Swamp Park features a lake with multiple boating options. Dan W. reports, "Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking." The lake supports fishing throughout camping season.
Historic exploration: Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park provides access to Revolutionary War-era sites. "A quick 15 minute drive from Beaver Pond, is Bear Mountain State Park. Here you can find some of the Appalachian Trail, with various smaller trail heads for this historic (Revolutionary Times 1770s) part of the region including the one to Doodle Town," describes Steve W.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Turkey Swamp Park offers secluded, forested camping areas. Katheryn N. shares, "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest." These wooded sites contrast with more open urban camping options.
Manhattan skyline views: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides urban camping with city views. Emily L. comments, "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...Plus you can see the Statue of Liberty from there!"
Trail variety: Cheesequake State Park Campground features diverse hiking options. "The 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," explains a reviewer.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Skyline RV Camp in Brooklyn has minimal amenities. Arlene S. warns, "There was only 1 bathroom with small shower for all guests, however they are in the process of adding 5 more. The only bathroom did have toilet paper, a garbage can and hand soap for the sink, but no paper towels to dry your hands and no shelves, hooks, or benches."
Insect concerns: Some campgrounds have significant tick populations. At Turkey Swamp Park, LAURA Y. reports, "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper."
Noise levels: Many campgrounds near Gateway National Recreation Area experience traffic noise. At Cheesequake State Park, Theresa G. notes, "Located between two busy roads...Used a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic with the exception of some sports cars/motorcycles speeding loudly."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly environments: Beaver Pond Campground provides facilities designed for children. Zorina N. states, "Short distance from the NYC, very organized, clean pond, has a playground, showers, bathroom. Your phone will have signal."
Beginning campers: Cheesequake serves as an introduction to camping. Maggie A. advises, "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. The best part is all the trails."
Water activities: Pleasant Valley Lavender offers a unique camping experience with seasonal blooms. Ellen K. mentions, "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ."
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides tight but functional spaces. Keith and Tia S. recommend, "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."
Access challenges: Many campgrounds have access limitations for larger rigs. Joe R. shares from Liberty Harbor, "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."
Military option: NWS Earle RV Park provides an alternative for eligible campers. Jeffrey notes, "All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio. Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection."
