Camping areas near Short Hills, New Jersey range from urban-adjacent RV parks to secluded forest retreats within a 40-mile radius. The region sits at the edge of the Appalachian foothills with elevations between 400-1,200 feet and experiences seasonal temperature fluctuations from below freezing in winter to humid 90°F days in summer. Most campgrounds in this area operate primarily from April through October with limited winter availability.
What to do
Hiking with dogs: Several trails at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provide pet-friendly terrain with varying difficulty levels. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," notes Paulene-Amanda M., highlighting the accessible nature walks perfect for leashed dogs of all abilities.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers a designated archery range with hay bale targets. "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," recommends Patrick M., making this an uncommon camping activity for those looking to practice their aim while enjoying the outdoors.
Water activities: The 2,350-acre reservoir at Round Valley State Park Campground provides crystal-clear waters for fishing and boating. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," shares James R., describing the pristine waterfront camping options.
What campers like
Accessibility to NYC: For campers needing to stay connected to urban areas, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers unmatched access to Manhattan. "This is a pricey park, but options are limited. The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," explains Joe R., highlighting the transportation connections available to campers.
Privacy between sites: Jenny Jump State Forest provides well-separated camping areas. "The camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views," writes Jocelyn G., noting how the elevated terrain creates natural separation between campsites.
Boat-in camping options: For a unique experience, Round Valley offers waterfront sites accessible only by boat or hiking. "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," notes Riley K., describing a camping approach not commonly found in New Jersey's state parks.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Highway sounds affect some campgrounds in the region. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "my only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night," reports Jocelyn G. Similarly, Garden State Parkway proximity creates background noise at several camping areas.
Bear awareness: Multiple campgrounds report bear activity. At Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park, "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness!" recalls Steve W., indicating staff prioritize wildlife warnings during check-in procedures.
Winter options: Unlike most seasonal sites, Turkey Swamp Park offers extended camping dates. "Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," suggests Patrick M., pointing to rare cold-weather camping availability in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Great Divide Campground offers kid-focused amenities within walking distance of campsites. "The common area, along with the pool, had a small soccer field and volleyball court. They also had scheduled activities for kids," notes Ethan K., describing the recreation options beyond standard camping.
Budget-friendly options: Harriman State Park provides affordable camping close to NYC. "About 30 minutes from sleepy hollow and tarrytown NY and only an hour to central park! Deer running everywhere and surprisingly beautiful and quaint," explains Megan B., highlighting proximity to attractions while maintaining reasonable rates.
First-timer friendly: Some locations specifically cater to camping novices. "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," explains Maggie A. about Cheesequake State Park, making it ideal for families new to outdoor recreation.
Tips from RVers
NYC access strategies: RVers visiting Liberty Harbor should plan their routes carefully. "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 Joe R., providing specific navigation guidance for larger vehicles.
Water hookup distance: At Panther Lake Camping Resort, water connections may require extra equipment. "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," explains antruze, noting the campground's solution to water access challenges.
Site selection for privacy: Great Divide Campground offers varying levels of seclusion. "The sites could be very close depending upon where u go. We had r6 and we had neighbor on one side. If the other spot was occupied then it might be a little too close for us. But there are some other sites that def are separate," advises Julie, suggesting specific site numbers for pet owners seeking more personal space.
Legend
