Urban camping options near Gateway National Recreation Area provide strategic access to New York City for travelers with recreational vehicles. Situated where New Jersey meets the Atlantic, this coastal area sits at sea level with a maritime climate featuring humid summers and mild winters. Autumn camping often brings temperatures ranging 45-65°F with periodic rainfall affecting site conditions at RV parks.
What to do
Outdoor exploration: Lake Welch Beach, located in Harriman State Park's Beaver Pond Campground, offers swimming during summer months under lifeguard supervision. "A stones throw from NYC this beautiful area combines Lake Welch and Harriman State Park. This camp ground is laid back away from the busy activity of the big city. If you want to get away and relax you can come here to walk, swim and camp," notes visitor Brian O.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park provides designated archery facilities with hay bales for target practice, approximately 55 minutes from Gateway National Recreation Area. "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," reports Dan W., highlighting multiple recreational opportunities.
Water activities: Beyond beach swimming, Turkey Swamp Park offers various boating options on its lake. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," describes Lee D.
What campers like
Convenient transportation links: The proximity to Manhattan transportation options makes Liberty Harbor RV Park practical for city exploration. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Staff is average, as this is not meant to be high end," explains Joe R., highlighting the accessibility despite basic amenities.
Waterfront views: Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront offers unique cityscape perspectives. "It's essentially a spacious parking lot with electrical pedestals but the view of the skyline across the water is spectacular and there's a metro station within a 10-minute walk," writes Amy P., noting that higher-numbered sites provide better direct views.
Natural environment: Despite urban proximity, some rv campgrounds near Gateway National Recreation Area maintain woodland settings. "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," describes Katheryn N. about Turkey Swamp Park.
What you should know
Limited amenities at urban sites: Most RV campgrounds closest to Gateway National Recreation Area function primarily as parking areas with basic services. "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," warns Ericka T.
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Indian Rock RV Resort and Campground visitor Kent W. notes, "Unfortunately, the bathhouse near our site had no hot water, but they were working on it, so I'm sure it won't be for long." At Skyline RV Camp, Amy P. found "portable showers available but beware the broken shower head holders and lack of shelving/hooks for towels & clothing."
Wildlife encounters: Ticks and other pests create challenges at some locations. Laura Y. reports from Turkey Swamp Park: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas for children. "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door," notes Dan W. about Turkey Swamp Park, which also features age-appropriate play equipment both within the campground and near the office.
Child-safe exploration areas: Beaver Pond Campground offers natural spaces suitable for young explorers. "Great location and quick to get to from NYC. 45 minute drive and location has a lot of amenities. Full bathrooms and slop sinks throughout the campsite," writes Kelvin, mentioning the campground's nearby lake and hiking trails.
Seasonal insect planning: Weather conditions affect outdoor enjoyment with children. Jaewook P. shares a positive experience at Turkey Swamp: "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!"
Tips from RVers
Military discount options: Active and retired service members have access to specialized RV facilities. "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," describes Jeffrey about NWS Earle RV Park in Colts Neck, located about an hour from Manhattan.
Site selection strategy: When staying at urban RV parks, position matters. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room," suggests one visitor regarding optimal placement at Liberty Harbor, where tight spacing remains a consistent challenge.
Ferry navigation: RVers report ferry service provides efficient Manhattan access. Emily L. notes that Liberty Harbor RV Park is "close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door. We brought scooters & had a great stay!"
