New Jersey camping options near Summit provide varying experiences based on proximity to urban centers and natural areas. Most RV-friendly campgrounds within 50 miles of Summit, New Jersey accommodate rigs with hookups and amenities, though site sizes and availability differ significantly. Winter camping options remain limited with only select facilities open year-round.
What to do
Explore NYC access from Jersey City: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers unique urban camping with Manhattan access. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Staff is average, as this is not meant to be high end," notes Joe R. Another visitor mentioned, "If you're looking for a place to crash and hit up the city or Liberty Island, this place is great."
Enjoy nearby water activities: The Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center RV Sites provides oceanfront camping with beach access. "Free beach just a few moments' walk down the road. Close to shore towns & many restaurants. Plenty of space for kids to play in the field/grass area," reports Jessica D.
Hike local trails: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers extensive hiking opportunities on well-maintained paths. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," writes Paulene-Amanda M. Another camper mentioned, "Make sure to visit Headley overlook and hike the awesome trials that surround the campsites!"
What campers like
Site privacy and spaciousness: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation receives praise for its well-spaced sites. "The sites are very large and I suggest site 7. It is on a hill so have a hand truck or a few people to carry stuff," advises Christina L. Another reviewer notes, "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain good standards for bathrooms and shower facilities. "The bathhouse was above average and heated. The laundry was helpful and was acceptable," reports a Liberty Harbor visitor. At Tri-State RV Park, a camper noted, "CLEAN bathrooms, showers, laundry. Super nice owners."
Convenient overnight stops: Tri-State RV Park serves as an efficient stopover location. "Easy on, easy off. Lots of pull through sites. Next to grocery store," states one reviewer. Another camper mentioned it's "Perfect for an overnight stop. Yes, right off the hwy and you can hear it. At the end of a road, so I felt safe."
What you should know
Site limitations: Several campgrounds have tight spacing constraints. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, "Sites kind of level and very close," notes one reviewer, while another describes it as "Basicly a parking lot, but the location can't be beat." The campground at Skyline RV Camp has reportedly moved, with one reviewer cautioning, "There no longer is a waterfront view of the NYC skyline when camping at Skyline RV."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some camping experiences. At Tri-State RV Park, "Located just off the highway so lots of vehicle noise 24/7. Sites are on a gravel lot," reports Michael H. Another camper experienced "loud highway noise almost all night."
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs dramatically between locations. At Timothy Lake South, "Cell service for most providers is practically non-existent," according to Jim G. Another visitor reported, "Verizon is 25 down 10 up. Tmobile is unusable."
Tips for camping with families
Look for family-focused amenities: Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South offers family-friendly facilities. "Standard amenities, like pool, hot tub, laundry, outdoor games a community fire pit etc. Small store as well," notes Robert M. Another visitor observed it's "a great place to take a family for that weekend camping experience."
Consider safe play areas: Some campgrounds provide dedicated spaces for children. At Military Park, there's "Plenty of space for kids to play in the field/grass area," though a visitor warns about "TONS of geese everywhere." Another campground visitor mentioned, "My kids explored the playground and found it sufficient."
Scout seasonal activities: Mountain Top RV Park provides year-round recreation options. "The family-friendly atmosphere was evident through the thoughtfully designed property, including an updated pool, playground, game room, and a brand-new pickleball court," notes Jason G.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup positioning: Hookup layouts vary significantly between parks. At Military Park, "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. NWS Earle RV Park campers note, "Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection."
Verify entrance routes: Mountain Top RV Park requires careful navigation. "If you're booking, it may be best to book on the upper levels because the lower area where we were did flood pretty bad a couple times when there was a lot of rain," advises HomegrownRV.
Prepare for urban camping challenges: When visiting Liberty Harbor RV Park, "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," recommends Joe R.
