Best Campgrounds near Jersey City, NJ

Camping options within reach of Jersey City, New Jersey range from urban RV parks to more traditional state park campgrounds. Liberty Harbor RV Park, located directly in Jersey City, offers 90 sites with basic amenities and serves primarily as a convenient base for exploring Manhattan, with ferry and train access just minutes away. As one camper noted, "Basically a parking lot, but the location can't be beat. Two ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away." More natural settings can be found at Cheesequake State Park (25 miles south) and Sandy Hook in Gateway National Recreation Area (18 miles southeast), where both tent and RV camping are available with varying levels of hookups and amenities.

Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically from April through October, with Cheesequake State Park specifically open April 1 to October 31. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends when sites fill quickly. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with humid summers reaching into the 90s and winters that can drop below freezing. Highway noise affects some campgrounds, particularly those near major routes like the Garden State Parkway. Campers at Cheesequake have reported: "While the campsite is fairly well protected from highway noise, you're still going to hear it at least a little." Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, though some more remote areas may have spotty coverage.

Visitors frequently mention the contrast between urban-adjacent and more natural camping experiences. At Liberty Harbor, proximity to urban attractions comes at the expense of natural surroundings, with sites placed close together in a utilitarian setting. "If it's packed, your neighbor will be within inches of your rig," notes one RVer. State parks like Cheesequake offer more traditional camping with "fully shaded sites" and "small forested areas" between neighbors. Wildlife encounters are limited near the city but increase at parks farther from urban centers. Facilities vary widely, from the basic but functional amenities at Liberty Harbor to more comprehensive offerings at state parks, which typically include showers, restrooms, and recreational facilities like swimming areas and hiking trails.

Best Camping Sites Near Jersey City, New Jersey (73)

    1. Liberty Harbor RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (201) 516-7500

    $149 / night

    "Basicly a parking lot, but the location can't be beat. 2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you yyo manhatten."

    "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."

    2. Collective Governors Island

    5 Reviews
    Jersey City, NY
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 445-2033

    $529 - $1200 / night

    "The article also mentions the benefits of camping on Governor Island, such as feeling close to nature, relaxing and enjoying a peaceful space, away from the noise of the city."

    3. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    Atlantic Highlands, NJ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (347) 630-1124

    $30 - $150 / night

    "Once you are there, you can walk right across the street to a bayside inlet and sandy shore that is not highly trafficked because no one can park there except those using the campground."

    "Rangers at the entrance regulate admittance thus, providing a safe environment within the confines of the base."

    4. Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025

    4 Reviews
    Bayonne, NY
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (718) 354-4655

    $30 / night

    "You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a nigh light. The camp here has 7 campsites here and it fill up really fast."

    "this place is awesome when it comes to finding an affordable place to stay while in NY, this camp ground isnt your usual forest camp sites, however there are some beautiful views, and it is located in"

    5. Cheesequake State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Matawan, NJ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 566-2161

    $200 / night

    "I stayed at Cheesequake at the beginning of August and had a very positive experience."

    "This park is on the list of 50 top NJ Hikes, and it has a few great trails. The trails range from easy to moderate with quite a few lookout locations."

    6. Skyline RV Camp - Non-Waterfront

    2 Reviews
    New York City, NY
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (347) 434-6891

    $85 - $120 / night

    7. Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    41 Reviews
    Pomona, NY
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 947-2792

    $17 - $20 / night

    "Drive-in tent campgrounds. Adequate restroom facilities sprinkled amongst tent sites. Some campsites have raised platforms. All sites have picnic tables and fire ring with flip-top grill."

    "The grounds are just steps away from Welch Lake, offering a lifeguard monitored sandy beach which is open during the summer season for swimming, fishing, and small boat craft further out."

    9. Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront

    Be the first to review!
    New York, NY
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (347) 434-6891

    $130 / night

    10. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation

    18 Reviews
    Jefferson, NJ
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (973) 697-3140

    "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large."

    "It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities."

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Recent Reviews near Jersey City, NJ

484 Reviews of 73 Jersey City Campgrounds



Guide to Jersey City

Camping near Jersey City, New Jersey, offers a great escape into nature without straying too far from the city. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for a weekend getaway or a longer stay.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Worthington State Forest Campground. One visitor mentioned, “The trails are nice and well marked,” making it a great spot for both beginners and experienced hikers.
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Mountain Vista Campground. A reviewer noted, “There’s a pond for fishing (catch & release),” which adds to the outdoor experience.
  • Swimming: While some campgrounds don’t allow swimming, you can find nearby lakes for a refreshing dip. One camper at Turkey Swamp Park appreciated the “lake for kayaking and paddle boats to rent.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers at Beaver Pond Campground praised the “clean shower and bathroom facilities,” which is a big plus for many.
  • Privacy: Many enjoy the spacious sites at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. One visitor said, “The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods a bit from the pad.”
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Camp Taylor Campground is noted for its family-friendly vibe. A reviewer shared, “The kids are kids!!! They play in the creek, get dirty, build fires and hike on the premises.”

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: At High Point State Park Campground, one camper experienced issues with noise complaints, stating, “We received complaints about the volume of our music and karaoke.” It’s best to keep noise to a minimum, especially during quiet hours.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Round Valley State Park Campground, have basic facilities. A visitor mentioned, “The primitive restrooms aren’t maintained at all,” so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Access Challenges: Campers at Round Valley State Park Campground noted that the hike to the campground can be tough. One said, “The path is not the best, filled with a ton of rocks,” so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Camp Taylor Campground, where families can enjoy activities together. A parent shared, “The kids immediately took to exploring the creek and woods behind our campsite.”
  • Pack for Activities: Bring along games and outdoor toys. One family at Mountain Vista Campground enjoyed the “game room,” which kept the kids entertained.
  • Plan Meals Together: Cooking can be a fun family activity. A camper at Turkey Swamp Park mentioned, “The bathrooms were clean and well stocked,” making meal prep easier.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: RVers at Stokes State Forest noted that some sites are “a little too close together.” Make sure to choose a site that fits your rig comfortably.
  • Be Prepared for Terrain: Campers at Clarence Fahnestock State Park mentioned that some sites have “deep ruts and was long and steep.” Be ready for a bit of a challenge when parking.
  • Utilize Dump Stations: Many campgrounds, like Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, have dump stations available. A visitor noted, “Dump station also on site,” which is handy for RVers.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, the Jersey City, New Jersey campgrounds have something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Jersey City, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Jersey City, NJ offers a wide range of camping options, with 73 campgrounds and RV parks near Jersey City, NJ and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Jersey City, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Jersey City, NJ is Liberty Harbor RV Park with a 3.7-star rating from 13 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Jersey City, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Jersey City, NJ.