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Camping options around North Bergen, New Jersey primarily focus on urban and near-urban experiences, with several established campgrounds providing convenient access to New York City. Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City stands out as a practical basecamp for city exploration, offering RV sites with electric and water hookups just minutes from Manhattan via ferry or train. Other nearby options include Collective Governors Island with glamping and cabin accommodations, and Beaver Pond Campground at Harriman State Park for more traditional tent and RV camping in a natural setting approximately 30 miles northwest.
Most campgrounds in this metropolitan region require advance reservations, particularly during summer months when tourism peaks. Roads and access points are generally well-maintained with good signage, making them accessible for vehicles of all sizes. "This is not for the timid RV driver," notes one review of Liberty Harbor, highlighting the urban navigation challenges despite good infrastructure. Many sites operate seasonally, with Beaver Pond Campground running from April through early October and Cheesequake State Park open April through October. Weather conditions are typical for the Northeast with humid summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
Reviews consistently mention the strategic location advantages of camping in this region despite limited amenities. Liberty Harbor RV Park garners mixed reviews for its basic facilities but earns praise for its unmatched proximity to Manhattan. "If you're looking for actual amenities, this probably isn't the park for you. But if you just need a base camp for doing tourist activities in NYC then this place will do," explains one camper. Sites tend to be closer together than traditional campgrounds, with several described as "basically a parking lot with water and electric hookups." Campers seeking more nature-focused experiences typically venture further from the city to locations like Mahlon Dickerson Reservation in Jefferson, which offers a mix of tent, RV, cabin and glamping options with better access to hiking trails and outdoor recreation.
"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."
from $145 - $180 / night
Check Availability"A little intimidating driving in to a nondescript gate at the end of a narrow street but the overall experience exceeded expectation."
from $130 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $17 - $20 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $85 - $120 / night
Check Availability"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."
"Sites are walk-in (only about¼ mile) and carts are available to haul gear. Two water spigots and bathrooms with flush toilets are also on-premise. No electric, hook-ups, or showers."
from $30 - $50 / night
Check Availability"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"
from $30 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $529 - $1200 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $200 / night
Check Availability"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."
"It’s basically a parking lot, but it’s steps away from some of the greatest waves on the east coast. Showers are clean, there’s a dog park nearby, and the island is very bikable to get around."
"Very close to everything."
ScoutNo hookups. It was wooded, quiet and dark at night. I used the dump station on my way out. The first time I ever saw a poop fountain. The sewer opening sticks up above ground level. The cover swivels away, so I couldn't put it on top of my hose. And then, when I tried to rinse it, there was nowhere for it to go, because the inlet is elevated.
ScoutI spent 4 days and 3 nights with my 6th grade Girl Scouts. We were at sites 23 and 24 which worked out great because they back up against each other. The bathrooms were super clean and well maintained. There are outlets at the bathroom building by the sink to charge any electronics. The playground is adequate and the field is big for playing. There are many things to do close by too like the observatory, Round Valley beach, Grounds for Art, etc. We all really enjoyed ourselves and plan on returning.
ScoutStayed three nights in a tent and enjoyed it very much. Sites have electrical hookups, shared water connections, large picnic table, and fire ring with adjustable grate. Electrical and water are at the outer edge of each site so you might want an extension cord and/or hose. Bathrooms are clean; showers have separate stalls but they’re clustered together (not the most private). There are hiking and biking trails, a lake, and archery park. Staff are friendly. Office is open through 9pm, and firewood, ice, and bait for fishing are available. Site C3 is in an okay spot; it’s close to the bathroom and laundry room, but also right next to the playground. We were able to visit the beach; easy 25 minute drive to Asbury Park.
RangerThis is an A.T. shelter and campsite. First come, first served. Privy was nice. Flat tentsites for 6 or more. Good for Hammocking also.
TravelerBeautiful park and very peaceful. Rangers are super friendly. This is exactly what camping should be.
ScoutThe main issue with the sites was that they were primitive -- no water. The campsites were basically just wooden platforms, with a picnic table and fire pit. There were also a lot of bugs, though this may be due to the rain. The location itself was fairly pretty and there were a number of hiking trails of not-overly-serious difficulty. The particular site we picked left is a little farther from our car than we would have liked, but for other sites you can bring your car closer.
TravelerThe campground was closed in 2024 for renovations. It is now open. I did a tour of the campgrounds but did not stay there. FYI, generators are NOT allowed at all at this campground. I did not see electric or water hookups. There are three loops. Each has it pros/cons. Sites 30-33 are near the bathroom facilities, sites 34-50 are more secluded, sites 52-65 are closer to the lake.
GuideThe park was open but camping was not. After a little extra digging they do have a few sites, but hike in only.
TravelerWe’re here for the Rock, Ribs, and Ridges festival and what a great experience! Make sure to bring a 50’ power cord as the hook ups are grouped together on telephone poles rather than at each individual site. As far as I know camping is only available during select events.
Camping options within an hour of North Bergen, New Jersey range from basic urban RV parks to more nature-focused state park campgrounds. The metropolitan region sits at an elevation of around 10 feet above sea level with the surrounding area ranging up to 500 feet in nearby hills. Sites tend to be pricier than more remote camping locations, reflecting the premium on space in this densely populated region.
Trail exploration at Harriman State Park: Accessible about 35 miles northwest of North Bergen, Beaver Pond Campground offers multiple hiking trails for various skill levels. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park!! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," notes Megan B. about Beaver Pond Campground.
Beach activities near Jersey City: Sandy Hook provides beach access with swimming areas patrolled by lifeguards during summer months. "Sandy Hook has all the necessities you need, bathroom, shower, and the occasional food truck. There is even a trail that runs parallel to the beach making it a scenic ride," explains Maggie A. about Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area.
Urban exploration from camp: From Liberty Harbor RV Park, campers can easily reach Manhattan attractions. "This is a pricey park, but options are limited. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll," advises Joe R.
Proximity to ferry service: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers unmatched convenience to water transportation. "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," shares Emily L. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Platform tent sites: Some campgrounds offer raised platforms that keep tents dry during wet weather. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor. Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained," explains Ethan K.
Privacy at county parks: The best places to camp near North Bergen, New Jersey for seclusion include county-run facilities. "My fiancé, dog, and I have been going here for over 2 years and we love it. The campground is small but also secluded. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," writes Paulene-Amanda M. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Bears are present in some areas: When camping at more natural sites in the region, wildlife awareness matters. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area," reports Steve W.
Transportation noise: Many campgrounds in the region experience some level of noise pollution. "The area itself was under a ton of construction when we drove in, which meant for difficult to navigate roads and we barely squeezed by larger trucks who were also in the roadways," explains Ericka T.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the region operate on limited schedules. "This is state park, very large nested on Peninsula on the Hudson River," notes Ioan P. about Croton Point Park, which has different facilities available depending on the time of year.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer recreational facilities specifically for children. "There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids," notes Andrew A. about Croton Point Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy spotting local animals. "Scenery is also a little drab. On the bright side, there are lots of bunnies!" shares Isabel L.
Beginner-friendly sites: First-time campers should consider sites with more amenities. "This is a great site for those who are not avid campers. It's close to town if you forget something and it has all the facilities you may need, bathroom, shower, etc. The best part is all the trails," recommends Maggie A. about Cheesequake State Park Campground.
Site selection strategy: At Liberty Harbor, position matters for comfort. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," advises Keith and Tia S.
Navigation challenges: Urban RV camping requires careful planning. "This is not meant to be high end. Sites kind of level and very close. Power and water, and convenient dump station if staying and needing to dump," notes Joe R.
Electrical hookups: Most RV sites in the region offer limited services. "Very easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N. Y. City," explains Nancymike K. about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping options are available in Northern New Jersey close to North Bergen?
Northern New Jersey offers several camping destinations within driving distance of North Bergen. Stephens State Park Campground provides lovely wooded sites, though some sites may not accommodate larger RVs. The park is nestled along the Musconetcong River, offering hiking opportunities. For those seeking a more developed experience, Great Divide Campground near Newton features scenic surroundings with a small lake, pond, and wooded areas. This private campground offers various amenities but tends to be on the pricier side. Both locations are within a reasonable drive from North Bergen and provide different camping experiences depending on your preferences.
Where are the campgrounds near North Bergen, NJ with shower and bathroom facilities?
Mahlon Dickerson Reservation in the Skylands region offers paved, mostly level campsites with bathroom facilities. The campground provides water and electric hookups, a dump station, and convenient access to hiking trails. High Point State Park Campground is another option with shower and bathroom facilities. Located on a lake in New Jersey's scenic Skylands, it offers access to hiking and biking trails, swimming, and the opportunity to visit the monument at the state's highest point. Both campgrounds are within reasonable driving distance of North Bergen and offer clean facilities for campers.
Is there a Bergen campground with full facilities near North Bergen?
Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold offers full facilities and is relatively accessible from North Bergen. This 2,283-acre county park features a 17-acre lake, hiking trails, and well-maintained campsites with amenities. Another option with comprehensive facilities is Stokes State Forest, which has multiple campgrounds with varying levels of amenities. The main campgrounds offer good facilities, though the Steam Mill Camping Area is more primitive with 27 sites suitable only for tents or small trailers. Stokes is nestled in a beautiful part of New Jersey with a good balance of seclusion while still being within driving distance of conveniences.
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