Many RV campgrounds near Hillsborough, New Jersey offer varying levels of connectivity, with cell reception being inconsistent throughout the region. AT&T users at Timothy Lake South report "awful" service, while Verizon typically provides better coverage with speeds of "25 down 10 up" at some locations. The terrain in this part of central New Jersey features a mix of wooded areas and suburban development, with elevation changes that can affect site leveling and accessibility.
What to do
Explore New York City access options: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides exceptional city access with multiple transit options. "There is a ferry 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," notes one camper at Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Visit Jersey Shore beaches: Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center offers proximity to coastal attractions. A camper reports, "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." The park provides an "unobstructed view of Stockton Lake & the horizon over the ocean" from certain sites.
Enjoy theme parks: Indian Rock RV Resort makes a convenient base for Six Flags Great Adventure trips. "We stayed two nights at this park because we wanted to spend a day at Six flags. Check in process was painless and the woman at the front desk was super nice and helpful," explains a visitor at Indian Rock RV Resort and Campground.
What campers like
Convenient NYC proximity: Many campers appreciate the strategic location of RV parks that allow easy city access. At Liberty Harbor, "Location, location, 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!"
Full hookup options: Several parks offer complete utility connections. One visitor at Timothy Lake South noted, "Site was level with good power and water. Camp was pretty well maintained and very full." Another camper highlighted that Timothy Lake South has "Best water pressure I have seen on the east coast, unregulated it's over 80 psi."
Military facilities: Active duty and veteran campers value access to military campgrounds like NWS Earle RV Park. "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... Laundry facilities are free for use and in like new condition," reports a visitor at NWS Earle RV Park.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Timothy Lake South campers note that "sites are kinda close together" and "sites are long but narrow," while others report the campground is "very roomy" with "good sizes." Site selection can greatly impact your experience.
Cell service challenges: Digital connectivity varies widely between parks. At Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South, "Cell service for most providers is practically non-existent... try telling that to the two millennials that were staying with us." Another camper confirms: "Verizon is 25 down 10 up. Tmobile is unusable."
Seasonal operations: Many parks near Hillsborough operate on limited schedules. Village Scene Park in nearby Hatfield, PA operates year-round, making it an option for off-season camping. A visitor described it as "incredibly quiet and far enough away from busy traffic" despite being "smack dab in the middle of an otherwise sprawling suburban area."
Tips for camping with families
Look for open play spaces: Some campgrounds offer ample room for children. At Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center, there's "plenty of space for kids to play in the field/grass area" though campers note "TONS of geese everywhere."
Consider amenity access: Timothy Lake South offers family-friendly facilities. "My kids explored the playground and found it sufficient," notes a camper, while another mentioned, "Standard amenities, like pool, hot tub, laundry, outdoor games a community fire pit etc."
Plan for noise levels: Indian Rock provides a quieter experience for families. "Many campers here are seasonal or long term stays and were very quiet and respectful," though one family had "bad luck of the draw being next to a very loud, inebriated family with unruly dogs but luckily they only were there the one night."
Tips from RVers
Check hookup placement: At Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center RV Sites, "the sewer hookup is about 18 inches off the ground so you need to lift the hose when emptying the tanks to ensure it actually fully drains." RVers should prepare with proper equipment.
Verify big rig accessibility: Liberty Harbor accommodates larger rigs but space is limited. "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 one RVer.
Prepare for parking lot-style camping: Liberty Harbor isn't a traditional camping experience. "Basicly a parking lot, but the location can't be beat," notes one RVer. Another describes it as "a gravel parking lot, with water and electricity. There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use."
