RV camping near Short Hills, New Jersey offers convenient access to multiple campgrounds within driving distance. The region features rolling hills with elevations between 400-600 feet and experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers and cold winters. Access roads to many campgrounds may narrow considerably in the final approach, requiring careful navigation for larger rigs during the peak season from May through October.
What to do
Explore waterfront areas: Campers staying at Liberty Harbor RV Park can easily reach nearby water attractions. "Two ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you to manhatten. Jersey city has a lot of restaurants and bars walking distance," notes Karen S. The marina restaurant provides additional entertainment options.
Visit urban attractions: From Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront, travelers can access major city landmarks. However, location changes have affected views. "Be advised that Skyline RV Camp has moved to: 50 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222... There no longer is a waterfront view of the NYC skyline when camping at Skyline RV," warns John T.
Hike local trails: The woodland areas surrounding Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offer extensive hiking opportunities. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," shares Paulene-Amanda M. The reservation features multiple trails varying in difficulty, with Headley Overlook providing scenic vistas.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Campsites at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provide ample room between neighbors. "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," reports Greg S. Most sites feature paved and level surfaces surrounded by mature trees.
Convenient location: Tri-State RV Park serves as a strategic base for exploring multiple states. "Easy on, easy off. Lots of pull through sites. Next to grocery store. CLEAN bathrooms, showers, laundry. Perfect for an overnight stop," writes BENdejo. The campground sits at a junction providing access to three states.
Updated facilities: Renovations at Mountain Top RV Park have enhanced the camping experience. "The newly upgraded camp infrastructure elevated the stay, providing amenities for comfort and entertainment. The family-friendly atmosphere was evident through the thoughtfully designed property, including an updated pool, playground, game room, and a brand-new pickleball court," shares Jason G.
What you should know
Military camping restrictions: Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center RV Sites offers full hookups but restricts pet access. "Pets are NOT allowed (but they'd probably help w the geese problem)," notes Jessica D. Reservations often fill months in advance during summer season.
Highway noise levels: Some campgrounds experience significant traffic noise. "While the staff is very friendly and polite you are basically in a old parking lot right below the freeway. Very easy to get on & off the highway but loud highway noise almost all night," reports Rick G. about Tri-State RV Park.
Seasonal operation limitations: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. NWS Earle RV Park operates "April 1 to November 15" according to their listing information. During off-season, alternate camping options become severely limited, with many facilities closing entirely.
Tips for camping with families
Scout playground facilities: Campgrounds vary widely in their child-friendly amenities. "They have a small playground that would be better suited for older children, and there's also a nice lounge room with games, a pool table, a tv and puzzles/board games," mentions @HomegrownRV about Mountain Top RV Park.
Consider site location: At Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South, site selection impacts the experience. "Sites are kinda close together but it was fairly quiet even though it was full," reports Mary H. Seasonal sites occupy significant portions of some campgrounds, potentially affecting atmosphere and noise levels.
Plan for connectivity challenges: Cell service varies substantially throughout the region. "Cell service is awful for AT&T and our T-Mobile gateway. Had to move to a new site to get away from the trees to get starlink connectivity," shares Nick E. about Timothy Lake South. Families relying on connected devices should research signal strength beforehand.
Tips from RVers
Navigation considerations: Large RVs require careful planning when accessing certain campgrounds. "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. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Hookup placement challenges: Sewer and water connections may present unexpected difficulties. "Only annoying thing was the sewer hookup is about 18 inches off the ground so you need to lift the hose when emptying the tanks to ensure it actually fully drains," reports Jessica D. about Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center.
Limited winter options: RVers seeking year-round camping face limited choices. "Open during the winter. Easy on, easy off," notes BENdejo about Tri-State RV Park, making it one of the few accessible winter camping locations within reasonable distance of Short Hills.
