RV parks near Hawthorne, New Jersey offer travelers access to the New York metropolitan area while providing camping options in varied terrain ranging from 30 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The region features a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, making spring and fall particularly comfortable for camping. Cell service varies significantly by carrier, with AT&T showing stronger coverage than Verizon in several locations.
What to do
Statue of Liberty views: From Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City, campers can see both Lady Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. "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. Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless," notes Joe R.
Hiking trails: At Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park, visitors access the Appalachian Trail and other historic paths. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," reports Megan B.
Farm animals: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort features a small petting zoo with several animals. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," writes Faith D. The miniature horse is particularly popular with families camping at this Sussex, NJ location.
What campers like
Waterfront location: Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront provides urban camping with spectacular views. Amy P. explains, "The view of the skyline across the water is spectacular and there's a metro station within a 10-minute walk. The area feels safe and is pedestrian friendly, even at night."
Peaceful woodland setting: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers spacious sites surrounded by forest. "Our site is easily the nicest- all the way in the back with only one neighbor. It is so quiet here. 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," shares Greg S.
Military campground option: NWS Earle RV Park in Colts Neck provides an affordable alternative for those with military access. "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," states Jeffrey, noting that the laundry facilities are free and in excellent condition.
What you should know
Urban camping realities: In Skyline RV Camp - Non-Waterfront, what you see online might not match reality. "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," warns Arlene S.
Highway noise levels: Several campgrounds near major roads experience traffic noise. At Tri-State RV Park, Michael H. reports, "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."
Wildlife concerns: Bear activity exists in certain parks. At Beaver Pond Campground, Steve W. shares, "'Welcome to Bear Mountain' grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with water access for summer visits. At Beaver Pond Campground, Kelvin notes, "Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby. The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping."
Playground access: Black Bear RV Park offers camping with various amenities for children. "Basic sites with full hookups for about $80 a night," explains one camper, though facilities may be limited during certain seasons.
Off-season benefits: Visit during weekdays or off-season for quieter experiences. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet. Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy," shares Rebecca S. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Tips from RVers
Route planning: Avoid unexpected tolls when navigating to rv parks near Hawthorne, New Jersey. "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 Joe R. about approaching Liberty Harbor.
Site selection strategy: At Liberty Harbor, 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. Pluses, minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, liberty Science center."
Water access considerations: Pay attention to water hookup distances at Mahlon Dickerson. "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," explains an RVer, noting the facility's thoughtful solution to this potential issue.
