RV campgrounds near Hackensack, New Jersey provide access to both urban amenities and natural landscapes within the New Jersey-New York metropolitan region. The terrain varies from riverside locations at elevations near sea level to forested settings in the nearby highlands reaching 1,000+ feet. Winter closures affect several campgrounds, with most facilities operating from April through October due to freezing temperatures that can make water hookups inoperable.
What to do
Statue of Liberty views: From Liberty Harbor RV Park, visitors can access ferries directly to Manhattan. "Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless. Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll," reports one camper.
Swimming opportunities: During summer months, Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground offers lake swimming with lifeguards. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful," notes a visitor who appreciated the extended swimming season for campers.
Farm animal encounters: Children can interact with farm animals at some campgrounds. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," writes one guest about their experience at Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort.
What campers like
Affordable options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the lower-cost options in the region. As one Beaver Pond reviewer noted, "This is an off-grid camping experience. You can use your generator at certain hours. They have a beach. Their staff is friendly. I love going here. Camping for just $15."
Public transportation access: Many campers value the ability to reach New York City without driving. "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC... minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, Liberty Science center. Two blocks away from NJ Path train into Manhattan or take the ferry to Wall Street!" explains a Liberty Harbor RV Park visitor.
Winter camping options: Most campgrounds close seasonally, but select facilities remain open year-round. "Open during the winter. Easy on, easy off. Lots of pull through sites. Next to grocery store. CLEAN bathrooms, showers, laundry. Super nice owners. Perfect for an overnight stop," reports a winter visitor to Tri-State RV Park.
What you should know
Public beach capacity limits: During peak summer season, some park beaches enforce strict capacity limits. "On July 4th, my partner and I tried to go to the beach, but were told it was at capacity at 3 different points throughout the day. At one point we saw 4 cars pull out of the parking lot and asked the employee if we could go in now, but was still told it was at capacity."
Garbage disposal challenges: Unlike many campgrounds, some facilities require campers to transport their own trash significant distances. "The garbage situation was the worst. Most campsites have a service, they tell you to leave it at a specific location by a certain time or they have many garbage cans throughout. This place had their garbage and recycling very far away."
Reservation system issues: Double-bookings occasionally occur during busy periods. A Skyline RV Camp visitor warned, "The campground was pretty hard to find. We almost gave up before we found someone local who could point us to the right place. One of the reasons is that their sign is half gone, small, and very hard to read."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: When camping with children, consider sites with designated swimming areas. "The beach is secured with lifeguards and shower and bathroom facilities are available," writes a visitor to Beaver Pond Campground.
Platform sites: For families concerned about rain or ground comfort, select elevated camping platforms. "Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay," notes a Beaver Pond camper who appreciated this feature.
Playground facilities: Children need entertainment options at the campground. "There is a small playground, a mini golf, and a large dog walk. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable of the area," according to a Pleasant Acres Farm visitor describing amenities for families.
Tips from RVers
Highway noise considerations: Several campgrounds in the region sit close to major highways. "Located just off the highway so lots of vehicle noise 24/7. Sites are on a gravel lot. Restrooms are clean. Not much else to say about this CG, is just a parking lot with hookups," explains a Tri-State RV Park visitor about the noise tradeoffs.
Site selection strategy: For optimal experience, research specific sites before booking. "The campground as a whole has been upgraded with new 50amp wiring, upgraded sewer systems, and newer water lines provided convenient camping experience," reports a Mountain Top RV Park reviewer.
Winter operations: RV travelers in colder months should confirm which facilities remain operational. "We are returning to the south after spending a couple months of fall in New England. This was our first stop and primarily chosen because it was one of the few places along our route that was open for RVs in the off season," notes a winter visitor to Black Bear RV Park.
