126 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The northern New Jersey landscape surrounding South Orange features a mix of camping options within a 30-60 minute drive. State parks, county reservations, and private campgrounds provide varied experiences from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers large, wooded sites with water and electric hookups, while Cheesequake State Park Campground provides seasonal camping from April through October. Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City stands as one of the closest options to South Orange, offering urban camping with Manhattan skyline views. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, about an hour west, features boat-in primitive sites along the river, providing a more secluded experience.
Camping regulations vary significantly across the region, with many state parks prohibiting alcohol and enforcing strict quiet hours. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, though some private facilities remain open year-round. Reservations are essential during summer weekends, particularly for waterfront sites. As one camper noted about Stokes State Forest: "This is bear country so proper food storage is a must. Bear lockers are not provided. The area also has ticks and rattlesnakes." Weather conditions can change rapidly, with summer humidity and occasional thunderstorms common. Cell service ranges from excellent near urban areas to spotty in more remote locations like Round Valley Recreation Area.
Lakeside and riverside sites consistently receive the highest ratings from visitors. High Point State Park earns praise for its spacious sites around Sawmill Lake, with one camper reporting: "The sites were large and spread out, and we felt like we had a good amount of privacy." Several boat-in sites along the Delaware River provide unique experiences, though they require paddling access. Visitors to Stokes State Forest appreciate the extensive trail network, including sections of the Appalachian Trail. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with deer, various birds, and occasionally bears spotted in the more remote campgrounds. Facilities range from primitive outhouses at boat-in sites to modern bathhouses with hot showers at developed campgrounds.
"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"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."
"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 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 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 Availabilityfrom $529 - $1200 / night
Check Availability"The crystal-clear water is home to huge lake trout and the forests are bursting with wildlife. The sunsets across the lake are to die for."
"Once you get to the campground trail it’s pretty easy going on asphalt surface."
"Panther lake was a pretty good campground with lots of spots to camp at. Our campsite had a picnic bench and a fire ring. They offer both RV and primitive camping."
"The Lake is the gem of the campground with a really nice beach, good for fishing and kayaking. The negatives were the bathrooms. They are very primitive and quite dirty."
TravelerThis area seems to be devoid of campgrounds except for this one. It’s basically just a large parking lot with hook ups. Completely open, which is great for Starlink. Bathrooms were slightly above average; fairly clean and places to hang clothes for your shower. Has a laundry but be sure to bring quarters. It is about 100 yards from the interstate so you’ll get a lot of noise and diesel exhaust fumes.
RangerWe camped here in our pop up for our Anniversary in November. We were impressed with the cleanliness and available amenities for the time of year we were camping in! Close proximity to DWG and PA AND NJ attractions.
TravelerAnother great experience. Sites were large. Staff was friendly with many different things for kids to do. Great base camp for local hikes.
ScoutAs far as experience it was good. The main issue was the campsite where we were was uneven and caused many of the sleeping arrangements that we had to be not level. This seems to be a specific issue to the group campsite number two as when we went inwards it seemed like everything else was much better.
GuideTwo night stay, large loud parties make it hard to enjoy but once most of them left it was nice to walk down to the river. Bath house with toilets and showers, not all lights working. No swimming access but boat access and trails for hiking.
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.
ScoutWe reserved for a day. Very bad service. The river is super dirty and they did not even clean the trash cans. Besides, the fire ring has no grill cooking grate, so if you don’t bring your own NO GRILLING. Ryan was the person in front that took care of us, he was rude, my kids felt weird because he was not welcoming at all. Also, we try to ask for a partial refund since we did not felt comfortable since the beginning, and they said NO. We have experience camping, but this one was simply THE WORST. We lost the money but we won’t put our kids in a difficult situation. Thanks.
TravelerWe’ve been to Camp Taylor twice now for tent camping: September 2021 and May 2023. We stayed at the rustic tent sites both times, and there was room for 2 cars and 2 tents. Depending on how you want your setup, there are some that are more secluded and others that are close together and would be great for group camping.
The staff are all lovely and take the time to explain the rules both in-person at check-in and on the forms they provide at the time of booking. They are not hiding how seriously they take rules like quiet hours, and it will keep campers like me coming back. If you are respectful of the folks around you and especially during the posted quiet hours, you will have no problems.
The office and shop keep supply of snacks, firewood, and gifts. There are flush toilets mapped in spots of the tent sites (SUCH a pleasant surprise! I was expecting a porta-potty or vault toilet), and hot showers are available at the same complex as the office.
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.
Round Valley State Park Campground offers one of the few wilderness camping experiences within an hour of South Orange. Sites range from hike-in locations requiring a 3-6 mile trek to boat-in spots along the reservoir shoreline. The park features a 2,350-acre reservoir that reaches 180 feet deep in some areas, providing opportunities for trout fishing and paddling. Cell service is minimal to non-existent at the primitive campsites, creating a true disconnect from urban environments.
Boat-in camping access: At Round Valley State Park Campground, paddlers can access remote sites without the strenuous hike. "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear," notes Riley K., who appreciated the well-maintained campsites with metal grate fire pits for cooking.
Urban exploration: While camping at Camp Gateway Staten Island, visitors can investigate abandoned structures within the park boundaries. "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building," reports Phillip L., who recommends this option for city dwellers seeking a quick escape.
Lakefront activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming, fishing, and small craft boating opportunities during summer months. "The lake and pool were a big plus, especially for hot days. While I did not take advantage, you are allowed to rent boats and take them out on the lake," writes Ethan K. about Panther Lake Camping Resort, noting the welcome center also sells camping essentials.
City skyline views: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides urban camping with panoramic views of Manhattan. "Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless," comments Joe R., who found the experience worth the higher cost. The park's location offers easy access to ferries and trains into New York City.
Private wilderness sites: Despite being near populated areas, some campgrounds offer surprisingly secluded experiences. At Beaver Pond Campground, campers appreciate the spread-out design. "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," writes Ethan K.
Well-maintained trails: Many campgrounds connect to extensive trail systems. "Hike trails are all over the place and the lake is nearby," notes Kelvin about Beaver Pond Campground, where visitors often combine camping with exploring sections of surrounding forest trails, including portions of the Appalachian Trail.
Bear safety precautions: Multiple campgrounds report bear activity. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness!" describes Steve W. about Beaver Pond Campground, where visitors receive specific instructions about bear activity. Proper food storage is essential at most woodland campgrounds.
Noise levels vary drastically: Some campgrounds remain peaceful while others experience significant noise. "Quiet time at night is laughable as the enjoyment of being in nature rages on into the early morning," reports Steve W. about Beaver Pond, while Round Valley offers more isolation. "Located between two busy roads" notes Theresa G. about Cheesequake State Park Campground.
Limited facilities: Primitive sites typically have minimal amenities. "I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don't get sick," advises Stuart K. about Round Valley, where potable water access can be limited despite the large reservoir.
Child-friendly activities: Panther Lake Camping Resort offers numerous organized activities for children. "The ceramic class was fun for the girls," mentions Jojo P., adding that the lake and biking opportunities kept teenagers entertained throughout their stay, even during busy holiday weekends.
Platform tent options: Some sites feature raised wooden platforms that keep tents dry during wet weather. "Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay," explains Ethan K. about his experience at Beaver Pond Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Beyond bears, families should prepare for other wildlife. "We had some issues with a skunk that visited our campsite multiple times in one night. Was not afraid of humans," reports Colleen C. from Panther Lake, suggesting secure food storage applies to all scented items regardless of predator size.
Manhattan access: Cheesequake State Park Campground serves as a convenient base for RVers wanting to visit New York City. "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. The campground provides electric hookups with bathrooms and showers.
Parking limitations: Several campgrounds restrict vehicle access to camping areas. "No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely my friends!" warns Christy K. about Sandy Hook Gateway, information particularly important for RVers planning to bring additional equipment.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in privacy between campgrounds. "The sites were a little too close together," notes Katrina Z. about Cheesequake, while Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers "large, wooded campsites with electric and water" according to Jeff W., who appreciates the paved and mostly level sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near South Orange, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, South Orange, NJ offers a wide range of camping options, with 126 campgrounds and RV parks near South Orange, NJ and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near South Orange, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near South Orange, NJ is Liberty Harbor RV Park with a 3.8-star rating from 16 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near South Orange, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near South Orange, NJ.
What parks are near South Orange, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near South Orange, NJ that allow camping, notably Gateway National Recreation Area and Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
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