RV camping near Wayne, New Jersey offers convenient access to both urban attractions and woodland retreats. The region sits at the foothills of the Watchung Mountains with elevations ranging from 400 to 800 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in the area provide sites with gravel or paved pads, and many operate on seasonal schedules from spring through fall due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Explore NYC landmarks: From Liberty Harbor RV Park, visitors can easily reach major attractions. "The ferry is 100-yards away that takes you to Wall Street M-F. There is a great market about 1/4 of a mile away, and the path that can take you to WTC or 33rd Street area is only a mile away," notes Shawn B.
Visit Liberty Park: The area offers excellent viewing opportunities of iconic landmarks. "Short drive to Liberty Park where we got out and walked at night to admire the city skyline and Statue of Liberty at night," shares Erc L.
Hike to woodland lakes: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers several trail options. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," says Paulene-Amanda M. The reservation features multiple water features including "creeks, pond, lake" according to John S.
What campers like
Proximity to transportation: The Jersey City area provides multiple transit options to Manhattan. At Liberty Harbor, "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," reports Joe R., making city exploration convenient without driving.
Wooded campsites: Mountain Top RV Park offers a more natural setting with "a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods a bit from the pad that you park on," according to Greg S. The sites provide privacy while maintaining convenience.
Flexible hookup options: Many campgrounds accommodate various RV needs. At Mahlon Dickerson, "The water hoses provided are plenty long. We didn't need to use our hose at all, just the filter," notes Greg S., eliminating the need for extra equipment.
What you should know
Varying site conditions: Site quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, "In general the camping spots are not well maintained, weedy, un-level and picnic tables are weathered and warped," according to Coffee&Camping T.
Bathroom facilities: Facility quality differs greatly by location. "The bath house was above average and heated. The laundry was helpful and was acceptable," reports Joe R. about Liberty Harbor, while at Mahlon Dickerson, facilities are more basic with "No facilities, just a porta-jon, but i think that makes it better," according to Paul N.
Off-site garbage disposal: Some campgrounds require travel to dispose of trash. At Pleasant Acres, "The garbage situation was the worst... this place had their garbage and recycling very far away and without a golf cart (which they had none to offer) or a car, you're stuck," explains Janelle G.
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Woodland Trails RV and Campground provides a basic camping experience with minimal amenities. "Spent a weekend here with a few buds for a biking trip. Didn't see much of the staff but the bathrooms and garbages were cleaned daily," reports Josh.
Playground access: Pleasant Acres offers "a small playground, a mini golf, and a large dog walk," notes Bill B., though activities are more limited than at some resort-style campgrounds.
Bear safety awareness: Wildlife precautions are important in wooded areas. At Mahlon Dickerson, "There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys," mentions Greg S., suggesting families should review proper food storage practices.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: City access requires careful planning. "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. from Liberty Harbor.
Limited maneuvering space: Tri-State RV Park provides convenient highway access but limited space. "Spots are on the gravel lot. Restrooms are clean. Not much else to say about this CG, is just a parking lot with hookups," explains Michael H.
Seasonal availability: RV campgrounds in the region often close during winter months. "Open during the winter. Easy on, easy off. Lots of pull through sites," notes BENdejo about Tri-State RV Park, making it one of the few year-round options.
