The Green Brook area of New Jersey sits within Somerset County at approximately 200 feet above sea level, surrounded by the Watchung Mountains with elevations reaching 500 feet. RV campers visiting this central New Jersey location can expect humid subtropical weather patterns with warm, humid summers and mild to cool winters. Mobile connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds, with several sites reporting inconsistent service even within the same facility.
What to do
Explore NYC skyline views: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers exceptional access to New York City attractions. "The ferry is 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," explains one visitor at Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Visit waterfront locations: When staying at military campgrounds, beach access becomes an unexpected perk. "Free beach just a few moments' walk down the road. Close to shore towns & many restaurants. Plenty of space for kids to play in the field/grass area," notes a camper at Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center RV Sites.
Hike local trails: Woodland campsites provide direct access to nature trails. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful. Definitely come here when you get a chance," recommends a regular visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
What campers like
Convenient NYC access: The prime location for city exploration makes certain parks stand out. "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 camper at Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Military campground value: The military campgrounds offer exceptional value with concrete pads and full hookups. "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," reports a visitor at NWS Earle RV Park.
Quiet woodland settings: Some campers prefer the more natural settings away from urban areas. "Very clean and quiet. 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," notes a camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
What you should know
Brooklyn RV parking changes: Recent location shifts affect campground experiences. "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. There no longer is a waterfront view of the NYC skyline when camping at Skyline RV," warns a recent visitor at Skyline RV Camp.
Limited amenities at some parks: Several campgrounds focus on basics rather than resort-style facilities. "Simple Campground - nice lay out albeit as with many campgrounds, the spaces are quite close together. With a sparse population in the winter, it made for a great spot for a work stay," explains a camper at Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South.
Management challenges: Customer service varies dramatically between campgrounds. "Extremely rude manager who will charge you for anything he can. Artie has zero people skills! If you give a card or deposit, expect to get excess charges," cautions a visitor to Crystal Springs Lodges & RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Explore military facilities: Military campgrounds offer family-friendly setups near beaches. "Big HOWEVER, though: the cell service for most providers is practically non-existent. I understand this is not the park's fault and some would say that this is 'real' camping-- try telling that to the two millennials that were staying with us," mentions a visitor to Timothy Lake South.
Platform tent camping options: Families with tents will appreciate dedicated platforms at some campgrounds. "They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on. This was pretty cool especially since some of the sites are all gravel with surrounding dirt. The sites are very large and I suggest site 7. It is on a hill so have a hand truck or a few people to carry stuff," recommends a camper at Mahlon Dickerson.
Bear awareness required: Wildlife safety should be considered at wooded campsites. "There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys. 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," notes a family staying at Village Scene Park.
Tips from RVers
NYC access logistics: RVers seeking Manhattan access should plan their approach carefully. "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," advises an RV camper at Liberty Harbor.
Cell service challenges: Mobile connectivity issues affect many campgrounds in the region. "Cell service is awful for AT&T and our T-Mobile gateway. Had to move to a new site to get away from the trees to get starlink connectivity," reports an RVer at Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South.
Site-specific sewer hookup positioning: Unusual sewer connections require planning and equipment adaptation. "The sites were level, good placement of electric water & connects," mentions a visitor describing their campground experience.
