Camping opportunities near Scotch Plains, New Jersey range from urban locations with Manhattan skyline views to more secluded forested settings in the surrounding counties. The region sits at low elevations of 70-150 feet above sea level with humid subtropical climate conditions. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with temperatures between 50-70°F.
What to do
Explore Manhattan attractions: Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City serves as a base for city exploration with ferries nearby. "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!" shares Emily L.
Visit Statue of Liberty: Several campgrounds provide access to national monuments. "We spent 3 nights here last week. I was in NYC for business and we took our RV. 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 tue marina parking area," notes a visitor at Liberty Harbor.
Hike forest trails: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers natural woodland experiences. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful. Definitely come here when you get a chance," mentions Paulene-Amanda M. The reservation includes multiple trails with lake views and peaceful forest settings.
What campers like
Proximity to public transportation: Campers appreciate RV parks with access to trains and ferries. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," notes Joe R. about Jersey City accommodations. This provides car-free access to Manhattan attractions.
Natural settings outside urban areas: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort offers a countryside alternative. "Large levelled spaces but a little muddy. Good for a quiet, relaxing weekend; not very close to attractions otherwise. My daughter loved the horses and goats," writes Erin S. The farm setting includes animals for children to interact with.
Spacious woodland sites: Some campers prefer more secluded options. "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," explains Jeff W. about the Jefferson Township location.
What you should know
Urban camping constraints: City-adjacent RV parks typically feature limited space and basic amenities. "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," explains Joe R. about Jersey City options.
Navigation challenges: Urban streets require careful driving. "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," advises a Liberty Harbor visitor.
Military campground restrictions: NWS Earle RV Park requires military ID for access. "Small campground W/ 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio," reports Jeffrey. These facilities offer lower prices but have specific entrance requirements.
Tips for camping with families
Farm animal interactions: Children enjoy campgrounds with livestock. "Lots of seasonals and lots of cabins, many RV sites I think all with full hookups. Plenty to occupy the kids. Playground, hayride, animals to feed (goats, chickens, donkey and pony)," notes Janelle G. about Pleasant Acres Farm.
Swimming facilities: Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South offers pool access for families. "Campground was clean, staff was friendly, sites were decent. My kids explored the playground and found it sufficient," states Ashley O. The facility includes recreational amenities for children.
Park location considerations: Evaluate distance to bathrooms and amenities when camping with children. "The office, playground, dog park, pool, laundry are located at the top of the hill. Camping spots are downhill, a good distance from the office and amenities," warns a Pleasant Acres visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: For RVs requiring more space, request specific locations. "When we arrived we were surprised at how many seasonal campsites there were. We came on a holiday weekend and thought it would be rowdy and loud. So far, nice and quiet," reports Angie G. from Timothy Lake South.
Water and electric considerations: Check utility locations before setup. "Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection," advises Jeffrey about the Earle military campground.
Cell service variations: Military Park Fort Dix Range 14 Camp and other rural locations may have limited connectivity. "We stayed here in November-December to do some exploring around Jersey. Not a lot going on at the fam camp. Clean and gravel," notes Rara B. about the Fort Dix location, which provides basic accommodations with potential connectivity limitations.
