Camping options near Nutley, New Jersey include a mix of developed campgrounds and rustic sites within a 40-mile radius. Campers can find tent platforms, paved RV pads, and cabin accommodations across various parks. Many sites in the region offer hiking access to the Appalachian Trail segments, with camping seasons typically running from April through October when temperatures range from 50-85°F.
What to do
Lake swimming: 5 stars: At Sebago Cabin Camp in Harriman State Park, visitors can enjoy excellent swimming. "This place is only an hour away from NYC with so much to do and see... Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends," notes Sara P.
Hiking trails: 4 stars: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides extensive hiking options through wooded terrain. "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," according to Jeff W.
Urban exploration: 4 stars: At Camp Gateway Staten Island, visitors can combine camping with urban exploration. "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building," explains Phillip L.
What campers like
Easy NYC access: 4 stars: Liberty Harbor RV Park receives high marks for its strategic location. "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," writes Emily L.
Family-friendly park programming: 5 stars: Sebago Cabin Camp offers structured activities for families. "Ranger Joe is great with the kids and they have firewood for purchase on site... they also have movie nights they do big bonfires on Saturday," reports Hashim C.
Private wooded sites: 5 stars: Camp Glen Gray provides secluded camping in a forest setting. "Great Camp! One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp," writes Jose N.
What you should know
Variable site quality: 3 stars: Cheesequake State Park has mixed reviews about site conditions. "We camped here once because it was easy for part of our family to get to from NYC. Sites were a little too close together and one of the sites we reserved was filled with broken glass," reports Katrina Z.
Noise considerations: 3 stars: Some campgrounds near Nutley have noise from nearby roads. "Stayed in the family campground in a travel trailer. Used a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic with the exception of some sports cars/motorcycles speeding loudly," notes Theresa G. at Cheesequake State Park.
Bathroom facilities: 4 stars: Beaver Pond Campground offers well-maintained facilities. "The grounds are clean and quiet. RV hook-ups, tent platforms, and rustic tent sites were available. Our rustic tent site had a few good options for pitching a tent, as well as picnic table and fire ring," writes Rebecca S.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: 5 stars: Beaver Pond Campground offers excellent swimming options for children. "Great location and quick to get to from NYC. The campsite has a lot of amenities. The wildlife do roam around your campsite so be mindful of putting food and garbage away before sleeping. Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby," advises Kelvin.
Cabin options: 4 stars: For families wanting a middle ground between tents and hotels, consider rustic cabins. "These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge," says Sara P. about Sebago Cabin Camp.
Budget-friendly sites: 4 stars: Some campgrounds offer reasonable rates for family outings. "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.
Tips from RVers
City access with RVs: 3 stars: Skyline RV Camp provides urban camping but has limitations. "There was only 1 bathroom with small shower for all guests, however they are in the process of adding 5 more... The campground was pretty hard to find. We almost gave up before we found someone local who could point us to the right place," reports Arlene S.
Site selection strategy: 4 stars: At Liberty Harbor RV Park, choosing the right site makes a difference. "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. 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.
Access considerations: 4 stars: Some campgrounds near Nutley have specific access limitations. "Very convenient location. My wife visited Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The sites had electric and water and were in a fenced off section of the marina parking area. It was a little loud with city noises, but exactly what we expected being so close," notes Kevin A. about Liberty Harbor.
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