Equestrian camping options around Jersey City remain limited, with most facilities requiring day-use arrangements or portable containment systems. The region sits within the Atlantic Coastal Plain, characterized by relatively flat terrain that gradually rises to rolling hills as you travel west. Most camping areas near Jersey City experience humid continental climate with distinct seasons and precipitation averaging 46 inches annually. Campers should prepare for summer humidity levels that often exceed 70%.
What to do
Trail riding excursions: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers a strategic base for equestrians planning day rides, located just 100 yards from a ferry terminal. "The ferry is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Getting in and out of the city is an adventure," notes Joe R. from Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park provides designated archery facilities for visitors seeking alternative outdoor activities. "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," according to Dan W.
Reservoir activities: The 1,290-acre reservoir at Spruce Run Recreation Area allows for multiple water-based activities alongside camping. "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore," mentions Ruette W., while Jules T. notes that "our site was on the water and it was really nice. A duck visited us every morning."
What campers like
Water access sites: Campers particularly value waterfront camping locations at Spruce Run Recreation Area. "Beautiful and relaxing water sites," writes Jules T., adding that "the only con to this campground is it's proximity to the highway. You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down."
Forest camping privacy: Turkey Swamp Park receives praise for its secluded wooded sites. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," explains Katheryn N., who appreciates that "you are allowed to have a tent on the site with an RV at no extra charge."
Cabin accommodations: For those seeking more structured shelter near riding areas, Stokes State Forest cabins provide comfortable options. "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic," reports W L., noting that "the interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend."
What you should know
Tick prevalence: Wooded camping areas near Jersey City can harbor significant tick populations. "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper," warns LAURA Y. about her experience at Turkey Swamp Park.
Road noise considerations: Spruce Run Recreation Area campsites can experience highway noise disruption. "Late at night you can hear the drone of a major highway," reports Frank J., while Jules T. confirms, "you can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down."
Bathroom facilities: Campground bathroom quality varies significantly across facilities. At Spruce Run, one camper reported that "the bathrooms were absolutely disgusting" during their stay, while at Stokes State Forest, "facilities were clean and stocked so no complaints there," according to Josh S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Allaire State Park offers multiple play areas for children. "Campground sells firewood, they leave it outside the park office so you can pick it up whenever," notes Dwight D., adding there's a "playground" available for younger campers.
Child-friendly hiking trails: Stokes State Forest provides varied trail options suitable for different age groups. "The area was incredibly peaceful," reports W L., who adds that visitors should "read the maps (especially NY NJ Trail Conference Maps) to get an idea of difficulty/elevation."
Bug management: Families should prepare for seasonal insect activity when camping. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite!" shares JAEWOOK P. about their Turkey Swamp Park experience.
Tips from RVers
Urban access considerations: Stokes State Forest provides primitive camping approximately 60 miles from Jersey City with limited RV amenities. "The campground has a pit toilet and a well. Each large campsite has a picnic table, fire pit, and lantern hook," notes Trip Over Life, adding that "many sites are a bit rocky."
Site selection strategy: RVers should carefully review site details before booking. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advises Douglas P. about Spruce Run Recreation Area.
City proximity advantages: For RVers seeking proximity to metropolitan areas, Liberty Harbor offers unique positioning. "Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless," observes Joe R., though Shawn B. cautions it's "just a gravel parking lot, with water and electricity. There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use."
