RV camping near Linden, New Jersey provides access to the metropolitan area with several options concentrated within driving distance of Manhattan. Most campgrounds in this region operate primarily as urban basecamps rather than traditional nature retreats. Winter temperatures in the coastal New Jersey area typically range from 20-40°F, with summer highs reaching 80-90°F, making April through October the primary camping season.
What to do
Visit Manhattan attractions: 20-minute ferry ride from Jersey City. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, the location makes city exploration straightforward. "We brought scooters & had a great stay! Plus you can see the Statue of Liberty from there!" reports Emily L. The park's proximity to public transportation simplifies city access without driving.
Explore Brooklyn neighborhoods: Short walk to transportation. Skyline RV Camp - Non-Waterfront provides access to Brooklyn's attractions. However, visitors should note recent location changes. "Be advised that Skyline RV Camp has moved to: 50 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222. The original property location at 2 Oak St was sold and is now private property," warns John T., emphasizing the need for updated navigation.
Beach access: Free public beaches within walking distance. Military facilities like Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center RV Sites provide affordable access to shore attractions. "Free beach just a few moments' walk down the road. Close to shore towns & many restaurants," notes Jessica D., highlighting the convenience for beachgoers without needing additional transportation.
What campers like
Urban proximity: Direct waterfront views. The waterfront location at Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront delivers on city views. "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," reports Amy P., addressing common urban camping safety concerns.
Transportation options: Multiple public transit choices. Campers value the variety of transit connections. "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," explains Joe R. about Liberty Harbor, emphasizing the practical travel benefits over luxury camping amenities.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained military campgrounds. Military installations maintain consistent standards. "Laundry facilities are free for use and in like new condition," notes Jeffrey about NWS Earle RV Park, highlighting amenities not typically free at commercial campgrounds. Military campgrounds often prioritize function over frills, with concrete pads and reliable hookups.
What you should know
Site configuration: Expect parking-lot style setups. Most metropolitan campsites function as glorified parking areas. "The campground was pretty hard to find. We almost gave up before we found someone local who could point us to the right place," explains Arlene S. about Skyline RV Camp, highlighting navigation challenges when campgrounds change locations or have minimal signage.
Winter camping limitations: Seasonal shutdowns and reduced services. Many facilities close during winter months. "We have short driving days and we try stop after every couple hundred miles for one night at a time, just to sleep, shower and eat. This was our first stop and primarily chosen because it was one of the few places along our route that was open for RVs in the off season," reports Gabbie Y. about Black Bear RV Park, noting winter water issues.
Cost considerations: Premium pricing for location. Expect to pay for proximity to major attractions. "It's a pricey park, but options are limited. As in almost non existent. This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore," states Joe R., acknowledging the supply-demand reality of camping near major metropolitan areas.
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: Verify neighborhood conditions. Urban camping requires different safety awareness. "The area feels safe and is pedestrian friendly, even at night. We were there Halloween night and we took our kids out trick-or-treating just outside the gate," reports Amy P., providing reassurance for families concerned about urban camping locations.
Nature alternatives: Forest camping within driving distance. For families wanting traditional camping, Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers wooded sites away from urban areas. "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," describes Greg S., contrasting with urban parking lot camping.
Farm experiences: Animal interactions for children. Some campgrounds offer agricultural activities. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," shares Faith D. about Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, highlighting unique features for family entertainment beyond standard playground equipment.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Tight access roads. RVers report difficulties navigating urban access points. "Getting in and out is not for someone in a brand new 45' travel trailer. Know your rig and know how to maneuver it in tight spaces," advises one camper about maneuvering in constrained metropolitan campgrounds.
Utility connections: Bring extension cords and water hoses. Hookup locations vary significantly between sites. "The water hoses provided are plenty long. We didn't need to use our hose at all, just the filter," notes Greg S. about Mahlon Dickerson, while others report needing extensions at urban sites where utilities may be positioned for maximum site density rather than convenience.
Reservation requirements: Book well ahead. Limited capacity necessitates advance planning. "9 sites total & they are often booked, so need to do so in advance," warns Jessica D. about Military Park facilities, reflecting the general scarcity of RV camping near Linden, New Jersey and surrounding metropolitan areas.
