Camping options near Newark offer access to the natural landscapes of New Jersey despite being close to urban centers. Most campgrounds are within 40-90 minutes driving distance from Newark, situated among the rolling hills and forested areas of northern and central New Jersey. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during day with nighttime lows in the 60s, while spring and fall camping require additional layers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Turkey Swamp Park provides a lake stocked with fish where visitors can test their angling skills. "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," notes Dan W. at Turkey Swamp Park.
Hiking trails: Stokes State Forest offers extensive trail networks with varied terrain. "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries of Stokes State Forest. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail," according to a reviewer at Stokes State Forest.
Water recreation: Spruce Run Recreation Area provides swimming, boating and kayaking opportunities on its reservoir. "A duck visited us every morning. Not including the bathroom situation, the only con to this campground is its proximity to the highway. You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down," reports Jules T.
Mountain biking: Allaire State Park offers trails for cyclists of various skill levels. "Great canp ground and State Park. Very clean with professional staff. Lots to do in the area! Mountain Biking from easy, paved trails to several miles of single track with everything in between," mentions Beau B.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots with natural barriers between campsites. At Mountainview Campground, "The campsites are spacious and the and facilities are clean. Short drive to the Delaware River for tubing. We can't wait to return next year!" according to Emily.
Lake views: Waterfront sites provide scenic views and easy water access. "We selected site T219. It was a solid choice: private but close to the toilet and water. Some sites located around the opposite side of the ring back up to a babbling brook. The rushing water will soothe you to sleep," notes Kara L. at Ocquittunk.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers appreciate encounters with local fauna. "We've never heard so much wildlife there as I did here. Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!" Christina H. reports from Mountainview Campground.
Stargazing: Rural locations away from city lights offer excellent night sky viewing. At Camp Mohican Outdoor Center, "The stars and moon were absolutely amazing. We got some great night shots and the moon is so bright it actually looks like the sun in the photos," according to visitors.
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: Horse campgrounds near Newark, New Jersey are virtually non-existent. While some parks have day-use riding trails, no designated horse camping areas with corrals or stabling exist within an hour of Newark.
Tick awareness: Several campgrounds report tick issues, particularly in wooded areas. "I was so excited when we got here. The sites are spacious and it's really beautiful. But by the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2," warns LAURA Y. from Turkey Swamp Park.
Bathroom quality varies: Campground bathrooms range from excellent to problematic. "Showers were cold water only and very cold at that," notes Frank J. at Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise despite natural settings. "You can hear the drone of a major highway," at Spruce Run Recreation Area, while Jules T. mentions "You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer playgrounds and youth activities. "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door. Staff was awesome! Attentive and outgoing. We really enjoyed our stay," notes Dan W. at Turkey Swamp Park.
Swimming options: Designated swimming areas provide safer water recreation for children. "Several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," explains Jocelyn G. about Spruce Run Recreation Area's facilities for families.
Educational opportunities: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center offers environmental programs. "The Visitor Center is only 3/10 mile away and has wi-fi, bathrooms/showers and a shop with food that is open from 8am to 8pm. The AT runs right through the camp," explains Shawn B.
Cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort while still experiencing nature. "We stay in the cabins. It's great to have the small kitchen when camping with the family. A must see campground," recommends Amy B. about staying at Stokes State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most campgrounds have basic water and electric connections without full sewer hookups. "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site. As mentioned, all roads and camper pads are dirt," explains Lee D. at Liberty Harbor RV Park.
NYC access: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides convenient city access despite basic facilities. "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," notes Emily L.
Dump station availability: Plan around limited dump station access. "If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig. Pluses, minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, liberty Science center. Two blocks away from NJ Path train into Manhattan or take the ferry to Wall Street!" advises Keith and Tia S.
Site conditions: Many campgrounds have uneven or dirt sites that may be challenging for larger rigs. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," recommends Joe R.
