The Newark region offers urban-adjacent camping within a 30-mile radius spanning northeastern New Jersey and portions of southeastern New York. Most campgrounds near Newark operate seasonally from spring through fall, with limited winter options. Temperatures typically range from 25°F in winter to 85°F in summer, requiring appropriate seasonal camping preparations.
What to do
Lake activities at Harriman State Park: Located approximately 40 miles from Newark, Beaver Pond Campground provides access to Welch Lake with a lifeguard-monitored sandy beach. "The beach is secured with lifeguards and shower and bathroom facilities are available," notes Brian O.
Hiking opportunities: Several trail systems surround Newark-area campgrounds, including historic routes. "A quick 15 minute drive from Beaver Pond, is Bear Mountain State Park. Here you can find some of the Appalachian Trail, with various smaller trail heads for this historic (Revolutionary Times 1770s) part of the region including the one to Doodle Town," writes Steve W.
Farm animal experiences: Some campgrounds incorporate farm elements. At Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," according to Faith D.
What campers like
Proximity to NYC transportation: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides exceptional city access. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," writes Joe R., while Karen S. adds, "2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you to Manhattan."
Privacy and spacing: Some campgrounds offer well-separated sites. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation stands out for its design. As Greg S. explains, "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."
Value compared to alternatives: While some rv parks near Newark, New Jersey charge premium rates, Harriman State Park offers affordability. "Camping for just $15," states Adaly, while Elliot G. adds, "Prices all can afford to come. Great for all types of levels of campers."
What you should know
Bear awareness: Wildlife encounters require preparation at several campgrounds. At Harriman State Park, one camper noted, "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness!" Steve W. adds, "The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping."
Waste management challenges: Some facilities have limited garbage disposal options. At Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, "The garbage situation was the worst... This place had their garbage and recycling very far away and without a golf cart (which they had none to offer) or a car, you're stuck," reports Janelle G.
Location accuracy issues: GPS navigation can be problematic. At Skyline RV Camp, one camper noted, "The campground was pretty hard to find. We almost gave up before we found someone local who could point us to the right place. One of the reasons is that their sign is half gone, small, and very hard to read."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated activity spaces: Some rv parks near Newark feature specific family amenities. Pleasant Acres Farm offers "Playground, hayride, animals to feed (goats, chickens, donkey and pony). There were some organized activities which was nice," according to Janelle G.
Consider noise levels: Campground quietness varies significantly. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "It is so quiet here. No amenities or extras here, just really pleasant camping in the woods," notes Greg S. Conversely, at Harriman, "There is a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers."
Plan for bathroom logistics: Facilities differ greatly between campgrounds. Beaver Pond offers "Full bathrooms and slop sinks throughout the campsite," according to Kelvin. Skyline RV provides minimal facilities: "There was only 1 bathroom with small shower for all guests, however they are in the process of adding 5 more," reports Arlene S.
Tips from RVers
Platform placement considerations: At Mahlon Dickerson, water access requires planning. "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," notes a camper.
Navigation for large vehicles: Some rv parks near Newark, New Jersey have access challenges. At Pleasant Acres, "When you leave you have to drive the wrong way in the campground because of the low hanging trees the correct direction," warns Bill B. At Liberty Harbor, Shawn B. notes, "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use."
Off-season advantages: Quieter experiences await during shoulder seasons. At Black Bear RV Park, Harold C. found "Campsite 44 for just one night. I can hear distant cars from time to time but, not like highway sounds." Similarly at Beaver Pond, "mid-week during the off-season it was great," according to Rebecca S.
