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Best Campgrounds near Newark, NJ

633 Reviews

Camping options near Newark, New Jersey range from basic RV parking areas to established campgrounds with varying amenities. Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City provides urban camping with views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty, offering electric and water hookups primarily for RVs with limited tent space. Approximately 20 miles south, Cheesequake State Park Campground offers a more traditional outdoor experience with tent and RV sites surrounded by natural settings. Several additional campgrounds within an hour's drive include Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold Township and Sandy Hook in the Gateway National Recreation Area.

Most campgrounds in the Newark region operate seasonally, with many open from April through October or November. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays during summer months. "This is 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," noted one camper about Liberty Harbor. Access to campgrounds varies significantly, with some urban locations requiring navigation through congested city streets while others feature more traditional campground road networks. Weather considerations include humid summers and potential for severe storms, with early fall offering more moderate temperatures and fewer crowds.

Campers staying near Newark frequently mention the unusual juxtaposition of urban proximity and camping experiences. Those seeking city access appreciate Liberty Harbor RV Park despite its parking lot-like setting, with many noting its convenient location for exploring Manhattan via nearby public transportation. According to reviews from The Dyrt, visitors value the security features at urban camping areas while acknowledging limited natural surroundings. For those wanting more traditional outdoor experiences, the state and county park campgrounds within driving distance offer more amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and natural settings. Cell service is generally strong throughout the region, allowing campers to stay connected even at more remote sites. Camping areas range from basic accommodations to more developed facilities with showers, flush toilets, and electrical hookups.

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Best Camping Sites Near Newark, New Jersey (100)

    1. Liberty Harbor RV Park

    15 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (201) 516-7500

    $145 - $180 / night

    "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."

    "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."

    2. Collective Governors Island

    6 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    9 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. Cheesequake State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Matawan, NJ
    20 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."

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

    4 Reviews
    Bayonne, NJ
    11 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. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area

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

    $30 - $50 / 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."

    6. Skyline RV Camp - Non-Waterfront

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

    $85 - $120 / night

    7. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation

    18 Reviews
    Jefferson, NJ
    28 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."

    8. Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    41 Reviews
    Pomona, NY
    35 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. Round Valley State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Lebanon, NJ
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 236-6355

    "The crystal-clear water is home to huge lake trout and the forests are bursting with wildlife. The sunsets across the lake are to die for."

    "Once you get to the campground trail it’s pretty easy going on asphalt surface."

    10. Turkey Swamp Park

    29 Reviews
    Freehold, NJ
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 462-7286

    $42 - $79 / night

    "We stayed in New Jersey for our 5th campground on the East Coast: Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold. This is a County park.

     Near some Revolutionary War battlefields.

     I really liked this park!"

    "Heavily wooded and supremely quiet, it’s located not far from anywhere you’d want to be. 30 minutes to the shore. Every site is a pull-through, large and spacious with great woodland views. 30amp and"

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Recent Camping Photos near Newark, NJ

396 Photos of 100 Newark Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Newark, NJ

633 Reviews of 100 Newark Campgrounds

  • Missy R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Dingmans Campground — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

    Beautiful, wooded, campsites

    I’m stopping through for the night and so grateful that I did. This campground is lovely. The spots are wooded so you have a bit of privacy. And you are so close to activities throughout the park. I’m changing my schedule to enjoy the campground and park a bit tomorrow.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Private wooded sites

    Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Liberty Harbor RV Park

    Functional with excellent access to the City

    Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door. We brought scooters & had a great stay! Plus you can see the Statue of Liberty from there!

  • Mindie C.
    Sep. 27, 2025

    West Point FMWR Round Pond Outdoor Recreation Area

    West Point

    No frills but beautiful. Bath houses are absolutely spotless. Fire pits, electric and water hook ups only. Will return! Staff is friendly and helpful. Military families should check it out!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024

    History and Camping with Revolutionary Limits

    Washington Crossing Historic Park, straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, is one of those rare places where you can literally camp in history. The Pennsylvania side is all about historic buildings, museums and picnic spots, while the New Jersey side (Washington Crossing State Park) offers organized group tent camping. This isn’t the place for a cushy RV getaway or individual tenters looking to sneak in for the night, but rather a structured, group-style camping steeped in Revolutionary War atmosphere. First impressions? More Boy Scout jamboree than weekend getaway, but if you’re here for camaraderie and heritage, you’ve hit the mark.

    Facilities are deliberately minimal. On the Pennsylvania side, camping is limited to a handful of Scout-designated sites with portable toilets, no running water and zero frills. Across the river in New Jersey, the official group camping area provides open tent-only sites with no hookups, no pets and strict quiet hours. Think old-school camping: fire rings, pit toilets and a heavy dose of ‘leave no trace’ ethos. Reservations are required, permits are non-negotiable and the max stay tops out at 14 nights. What you do get is a wide, peaceful forest setting with plenty of space for tents, youth groups or scout troops along with the kind of simplicity that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

    Beyond the tent pads, the surrounding parks are rich with history and outdoor options. On the Pennsylvania side, you’ll find the visitor center, historic McConkey’s Ferry Inn, Bowman’s Hill Tower, and interpretive programs that bring the Revolutionary War era to life. Picnic areas and a boat launch offer ways to enjoy the Delaware River. In New Jersey, miles of wooded trails lead you through rolling hills and historic landscapes, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. It’s a spot where history buffs, scouts and nature seekers can all find common ground.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a handful: (1) The best group sites are the ones tucked furthest from the trailhead as (surprise, surprise) they’re quieter and offer more privacy; (2) Stock up before arriving, as there are no supply stores inside the park, so head on over to nearby Weis Markets in Langhorne or ShopRite in Fairless Hills, both of which are on the PA-side; (3) Be sure to bring all your own water as none is available onsite; (4) Kayakers should launch from the Pennsylvania side’s boat access for an iconic paddle on the Delaware River; (5) Visit the park’s historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it’s easily the most memorable history lesson you’ll ever get outdoors; and (6) When you’re done camping, fuel up at It’s Nutts Restaurant on the Jersey side in Titusville for classic diner-style comfort food or Francisco’s on the River for Italian fare with Delaware River views.

    Happy Camping!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Liberty Harbor RV Park

    friendly staff at the office

    Gave us a welcome folder with lots of helpful info, can walk to get food up the street, short drive to Liberty Park where we got out and walked at night to admire the city skyline and Statue of Liberty at night. They have hook ups and big laundry room.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Round Valley State Park Campground

    Get Your Hard-Core Hiking In To Enjoy This CG

    Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feed deep in the middle, this body of water provides a solid amount of upside for anyone wanting to kayak, canoe or swim. One of the greatest assets at this particular SP CG are the wonderful rangers who keep this place in such tip-top condition year-round. From the North Picnic Area, Bray’s Hill Preserve and Round Valley Beachhead to the East Picnic Area, Round Valley Farm on the eastern side of the reservoir as well as Round Valley Rec Area, there’s a lot to explore at this SP.

    One interesting fact about this place– believe it or not– it is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping(a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles– or if you come with your own boat, you can access by water– and can be found on the SE corner of the reservoir. There is a second area nearby called Spruce Run Recreation Area that can be accessed by driving to this location, which is on the other side of I78 NW of Round Valley SP. That said, if you’re looking to camp here at Round Valley, I highly recommend you boat in as the hiking path is incredibly difficult to manage without hauling all of your camping gear, so coming in with a ton of gear is even more difficult/ prohibitive.

    When you finally do arrive to this primitive CG immersed in NJ’s thick wild foliage, you’ll experience waterfront bliss with a crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water, and you won’t get much in the way of amenities, apart from a few random water pumps and some rocks piled in a circle that, um, I guess makes up a fire ring. While there are backwoods-style bathroom pits, these are very ill-managed and you’ll come across the‘stank’ well before actually even arriving here, so we just didn’t use them. There’s picnic tables, but the one we had was in pretty rough condition. The thing I found odd about the place is that after hiking so far in to get to this location, you’re not allowed to swim in the reservoir, which kind of defeats the entire point IMHO. That said, the views are amazing and because there’s nothing else in these parts, you will experience true peace in nature.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few:(1) Whether hiking or kayaking to this CG, you will want to bring as little with you as possible– packing too much to come here just isn’t worth the work;(2) We found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly;(3) While the water in the reservoir may look crystal clear, it is not crystal clean and I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don’t get sick;(4) I have hiked throughout the entire US and consider myself somewhere between a moderate to skilled hiker and I found these trails challenging and uneven, so while the hike we made was only 3 miles, it was not easy and I would be worried about someone breaking an ankle getting to this CG– so at a minimum, ensure you are wearing proper hiking boots. Seriously, for what this SP puts you through to access this CG one really needs to question why they’re being charged anything at all in the first place.

    Happy Camping!

  • J
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Fantastic camping ground

    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! The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!

  • Damia F.
    Aug. 29, 2025

    High Point State Park Campground

    Relaxing and Well-Maintained

    Stayed 2 nights and it was really nice. Camping for summer is pretty limited to Sawmill Lake, as the other locations are for groups or winter camping. Camps are secluded from each other and most if not all have an elevated space to put tents or chairs. Each place comes with a lamp hang, a fire pit, and a picnic table. Bathrooms are spaced out. No running water except for pump founded outside of the bathrooms. Toilets are pump flushed. Showers are only located INSIDE High Point State Park, not throughout the campsites, but entry is free for campers. One hiking trail is accessible in Sawmill campground, 3 others are accessible on the road outside of the campground and the rest are located inside the park. When you arrive you have to check in with the park office for your campsite tag. Hours are 8-4. Park officials come through the campsites pretty regularly, a few times a day which is nice. Areas are clean and well maintained.

Guide to Newark

Camping near Newark, New Jersey, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Worthington State Forest Campground. "The trails are nice and well marked," one camper noted, making it a great spot for both beginners and experienced hikers.
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Turkey Swamp Park. A visitor mentioned, "The lake has fishing & boat rentals," perfect for a relaxing day by the water.
  • Swimming: While some campgrounds like Round Valley State Park Campground don’t allow swimming, nearby lakes offer spots for a refreshing dip. "The water was clean and provided a lovely view," shared a happy camper.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Beaver Pond Campground. One review stated, "I like the clean shower and bathroom facilities," which is a big plus for many.
  • Privacy: Many enjoy the spacious sites at Stokes State Forest. A visitor remarked, "Big spacious sites with a lot of privacy," making it a great choice for those who want to escape the crowds.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Camp Taylor Campground are noted for their welcoming vibe. "The family that operates this place are the friendliest," said a returning guest.

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds, like High Point State Park Campground, have strict noise regulations. One camper shared, "We received complaints about the volume of our music," so keep it low to avoid issues.
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds such as Mahlon Dickerson Reservation focus on nature, so don’t expect many extras. A visitor mentioned, "No amenities or extras here, just really pleasant camping in the woods."
  • Access Challenges: Some sites, like those at Clarence Fahnestock State Park, may require a bit of a hike to reach. "We had to leave the car on the road and carry all of our gear down a 200 ft long pathway," noted one camper.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds. At Mountain Vista Campground, a reviewer said, "Lots of stuff to do for kids including a game room."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals and snacks. One family at Camp Taylor Campground enjoyed their time cooking together, saying, "We had running water and an electric outlet."
  • Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours to keep the peace. A camper at Beaver Pond Campground appreciated that "quiet hours were strictly enforced."

Tips from RVers:

  • Site Size: Check the size of the sites before booking. A visitor at Stokes State Forest mentioned, "The campsites themselves are a little too close together in some spots."
  • Road Conditions: Be prepared for unpaved roads at places like Turkey Swamp Park. One camper noted, "None of the roads are paved. All are packed sand."
  • Electric Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. Campers at Mountain Vista Campground appreciated the "electric hookups and fifty amp hookups."

Camping around Newark, NJ, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated camping options in New Jersey close to Newark?

The highest-rated camping options near Newark include Mahlon Dickerson Reservation in the Skylands region, which earns top marks for its spacious, paved, and mostly level campsites with water and electric hookups. The wooded sites offer privacy while staying accessible for both weekend and extended stays. Another excellent choice is Butterfly Camping Resort, praised for its family-friendly atmosphere with a large playground, organized activities, and a fishing lake. The sites feature natural separation with trees and shrubs, creating privacy without isolation. Both campgrounds maintain clean facilities and are within reasonable driving distance from Newark, making them perfect for getaways without traveling too far from the city.

Are there any tent camping sites within 30 minutes of Newark?

Finding tent camping within 30 minutes of Newark is challenging but possible. Stephens State Park Campground offers the closest tent-friendly sites, located just outside the 30-minute range in normal traffic conditions. This lovely campground features wooded sites along the Musconetcong River with basic amenities, though be aware that some sites prohibit pets. For something closer but less traditional, Collective Governors Island provides a unique urban camping experience with tent accommodations just a ferry ride away from Manhattan. While technically glamping rather than traditional tent camping, it's one of the few options that doesn't require a long drive from Newark.

What are the best campgrounds near Newark, NJ for weekend trips?

For weekend getaways from Newark, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers the closest option with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and convenient public transportation into the city. For a more natural experience, Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold provides 2,283 acres with a 17-acre lake, hiking trails, and well-maintained sites perfect for a quick escape. Sites are paved and suitable for both tents and RVs. The park's proximity to Revolutionary War battlefields adds historical interest for weekend explorers. Both locations offer reservable sites with basic amenities like water and toilets, making them ideal for short trips without extensive planning or long drives.

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