Primitive tent camping options exist within 50 miles of Jersey City, with locations offering varying degrees of solitude and amenities. The region features a mix of mountain, forest, and coastal environments with elevation ranging from sea level at coastal sites to over 1,100 feet at inland locations. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with average temperatures between 55-75°F.
What to do
Explore coastal beaches: At Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, you can camp within walking distance of ocean beaches. "Very reasonable rates to pitch a tent. You get a private space with a fire pit. Ocean is close with lifeguards. Good fishing and pleasant people," notes reviewer Stanley S.
Paddle on reservoir waters: Round Valley Recreation Area offers crystal-clear waters ideal for paddling to campsites. "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," explains Riley K., who enjoyed the lake access directly from the campsite.
Visit historic landmarks: Camp at Croton Point Park and explore nearby historic sites. "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!" shares Wendy C.
Lavender field viewing: Pleasant Valley Lavender offers unique tent sites with fragrant surroundings during bloom season. "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods with. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads," according to Ellen K.
What campers like
Secluded wilderness experience: Round Valley State Park Campground offers true wilderness camping. "This is a great campground that is super private and quiet - great for getting out to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort!" shares Agbi B.
Proximity to NYC: Many campers appreciate being able to escape the city without long drives. "Great visit to this Brooklyn Campsite! The site was clean and accommodating. Great way to escape the city for a night if you can't make it upstate!" says Lindsey M. about Sandy Hook.
Urban wildlife sightings: Campers often report seeing wildlife even at parks close to urban areas. "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio," notes Ilya F. about The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
Mountain ridge views: Several tent campsites near Jersey City provide elevated perspectives. "This is a great spot to set up camp because it has a wide area and an amazing view. You will find the site right next to the American Flag at the top of the mountain," explains Ethan K. about Stonetown Circular trail Primitive campsite.
What you should know
Transport logistics: Many campgrounds require gear transport from parking areas. "No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely my friends!" warns Christy K. about Sandy Hook.
Wildlife precautions: Food storage is critical at several locations. "Sites also have metal storage units for locking up foodstuffs to protect them from being pilfered by the numerous and bold raccoons," explains Craig M.
Varying bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly across campgrounds. "Clean but a bit dated. No shelves or hooks for toiletries. I was surprised the door was left open all night long," reports Lee D. about Croton Point Park facilities.
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations differ between parks. "There are NO fire pits, you must bring your own. Fires are allowed but you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground," explains Katrina M. about Battle Row Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," notes Katrina M. about Battle Row Campground.
Educational activities: Look for parks with ranger programs. "There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building," shares Phillip L. about Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area.
Swimming options: Some parks offer supervised swimming areas. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," explains Ethan K. about Sebago Cabin Camp.
Cabins as backup: For families new to camping, some parks offer cabins as an alternative. "We were able to rent a cabin which was equipped with an outside grill and picnic area. It is great if you are going with a group/family and people want to sleep inside a cabin as oppose to a tent outside," recommends Ethan K.
Tips for RVers
Limited full hookup options: Most primitive tent campsites near Jersey City have limited RV accommodations. "Both the tenting section and RV sites are each very clustered together, and quite crowded," notes Paul K. about site spacing at Croton Point Park.
Reservation processes: Some parks have complicated reservation systems. "The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in," warns Lee D.
Site layouts: Review site arrangements before booking. "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together," observes Lee D. about Croton Point Park.