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Best Campgrounds near West Orange, NJ

766 Reviews

Camping near West Orange, New Jersey encompasses a range of options within a 30-mile radius, from urban RV parks to wooded state forest campgrounds. The area sits within reach of both the New York City metropolitan region and the more rural northwestern parts of New Jersey, including the Skylands region. Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City provides urban camping with Manhattan skyline views, while more natural settings can be found at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation in Jefferson Township and Cheesequake State Park in Matawan. Campers seeking proximity to water can explore options at Sandy Hook in the Gateway National Recreation Area, where sites are within walking distance of beaches along the Atlantic coast.

Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically from April through October, with some closing as early as September. Cheesequake State Park operates from April 1 to October 31, while Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park (NY) runs from April 22 to October 9. Summer humidity and mosquitoes are common throughout the region, particularly in wooded and lakeside areas. Cell service varies significantly, with better coverage near urban areas and spotty reception in more remote locations. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend camping during peak summer months when sites fill quickly.

The camping experience varies dramatically depending on location. Urban options like Liberty Harbor provide full RV hookups with easy access to public transportation into Manhattan, while state parks offer more traditional camping with fire rings, picnic tables, and natural surroundings. According to reviews, Mahlon Dickerson Reservation features "wooded and large" campsites that are "paved and mostly level" with water and electric hookups. Primitive boat-in sites are available along the Delaware River in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, where campers must arrive by canoe or kayak. Pet policies vary significantly between campgrounds, with some prohibiting pets entirely while others welcome them at designated sites only.

Map showing campgrounds near West Orange, New JerseyExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near West Orange, New Jersey (119)

    1. Liberty Harbor RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (201) 516-7500

    $149 / night

    "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."

    2. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation

    18 Reviews
    Jefferson, NJ
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (973) 697-3140

    "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."

    3. Collective Governors Island

    5 Reviews
    Jersey City, NY
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 445-2033

    $529 - $1200 / night

    "The article also mentions the benefits of camping on Governor Island, such as feeling close to nature, relaxing and enjoying a peaceful space, away from the noise of the city."

    4. Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park

    41 Reviews
    Pomona, NY
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 947-2792

    $17 - $20 / night

    "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."

    5. Cheesequake State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Matawan, NJ
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 566-2161

    $200 / night

    "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."

    6. Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025

    4 Reviews
    Bayonne, NY
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (718) 354-4655

    $30 / night

    "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"

    7. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    Atlantic Highlands, NJ
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (347) 630-1124

    $30 - $150 / night

    "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."

    "Rangers at the entrance regulate admittance thus, providing a safe environment within the confines of the base."

    8. Camp Glen Gray

    2 Reviews
    Oakland, NJ
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (201) 327-7234

    $5 - $200 / night

    "One rustic place with many hiking trails to choose from. Camp also provides trucking of gear weather permitting. No vehicles allowed to drive through camp. Trading Post for treats and other items."

    "Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions"

    9. Panther Lake Camping Resort

    17 Reviews
    Andover, NJ
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (973) 347-4440

    "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."

    10. Skyline RV Camp - Non-Waterfront

    2 Reviews
    New York City, NY
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (347) 434-6891

    $85 - $120 / night

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Recent Camping Photos near West Orange, NJ

478 Photos of 119 West Orange Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near West Orange, NJ

766 Reviews of 119 West Orange Campgrounds

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Round Valley State Park Campground

    Get Your Hard-Core Hiking In To Enjoy This CG

    Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feed deep in the middle, this body of water provides a solid amount of upside for anyone wanting to kayak, canoe or swim. One of the greatest assets at this particular SP CG are the wonderful rangers who keep this place in such tip-top condition year-round. From the North Picnic Area, Bray’s Hill Preserve and Round Valley Beachhead to the East Picnic Area, Round Valley Farm on the eastern side of the reservoir as well as Round Valley Rec Area, there’s a lot to explore at this SP.

    One interesting fact about this place– believe it or not– it is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping(a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles– or if you come with your own boat, you can access by water– and can be found on the SE corner of the reservoir. There is a second area nearby called Spruce Run Recreation Area that can be accessed by driving to this location, which is on the other side of I78 NW of Round Valley SP. That said, if you’re looking to camp here at Round Valley, I highly recommend you boat in as the hiking path is incredibly difficult to manage without hauling all of your camping gear, so coming in with a ton of gear is even more difficult/ prohibitive.

    When you finally do arrive to this primitive CG immersed in NJ’s thick wild foliage, you’ll experience waterfront bliss with a crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water, and you won’t get much in the way of amenities, apart from a few random water pumps and some rocks piled in a circle that, um, I guess makes up a fire ring. While there are backwoods-style bathroom pits, these are very ill-managed and you’ll come across the‘stank’ well before actually even arriving here, so we just didn’t use them. There’s picnic tables, but the one we had was in pretty rough condition. The thing I found odd about the place is that after hiking so far in to get to this location, you’re not allowed to swim in the reservoir, which kind of defeats the entire point IMHO. That said, the views are amazing and because there’s nothing else in these parts, you will experience true peace in nature.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few:(1) Whether hiking or kayaking to this CG, you will want to bring as little with you as possible– packing too much to come here just isn’t worth the work;(2) We found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly;(3) While the water in the reservoir may look crystal clear, it is not crystal clean and 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;(4) I have hiked throughout the entire US and consider myself somewhere between a moderate to skilled hiker and I found these trails challenging and uneven, so while the hike we made was only 3 miles, it was not easy and I would be worried about someone breaking an ankle getting to this CG– so at a minimum, ensure you are wearing proper hiking boots. Seriously, for what this SP puts you through to access this CG one really needs to question why they’re being charged anything at all in the first place.

    Happy Camping!

  • J
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Fantastic camping ground

    We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn’t even use mosquito repellent and didn’t get a single bite! The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!

  • Damia F.
    Aug. 29, 2025

    High Point State Park Campground

    Relaxing and Well-Maintained

    Stayed 2 nights and it was really nice. Camping for summer is pretty limited to Sawmill Lake, as the other locations are for groups or winter camping. Camps are secluded from each other and most if not all have an elevated space to put tents or chairs. Each place comes with a lamp hang, a fire pit, and a picnic table. Bathrooms are spaced out. No running water except for pump founded outside of the bathrooms. Toilets are pump flushed. Showers are only located INSIDE High Point State Park, not throughout the campsites, but entry is free for campers. One hiking trail is accessible in Sawmill campground, 3 others are accessible on the road outside of the campground and the rest are located inside the park. When you arrive you have to check in with the park office for your campsite tag. Hours are 8-4. Park officials come through the campsites pretty regularly, a few times a day which is nice. Areas are clean and well maintained.

  • Paul K.
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Croton Point Park

    Not the Best Place to Go in the Northeast By a Longshot

    Croton Point Campground is a modest little campground, located along the Hudson River within Croton Point Park in NY. In addition to camping, the park itself offers many of its own attractions, including swimming, hiking, kayaking, cabin rentals, and a host of other family-oriented activities just along the Hudson. 

    The park, which is honestly probably the largest attraction here, is located just an hour and a half outside of the city. This proximity is both its perk and its downfall, as the park itself, but particularly the campground, has become laden with all sorts of inexplicable and burdensome rules, endless guidelines, and restrictions only a New York State-run bureaucracy could ever make sense of, let alone hope to justify. 

    This includes all manner of restrictions on how you can camp, where you can camp, what equipment can be used, and use in relation to what particular site you may have been lucky enough to reserve. Much of this you can understand while imagining what may have taken place here to bring them to such measures, but it doesn't make it any easier to contend with. 

    In terms of the actual camping conditions Both the tenting section and RV sites are each very clustered together, and quite crowded, with regular patrols🚓(actual patrols) being made day and night, by both the Park Rangers and what appears to be general park staff members, all looking to see if you or your family might be doing something that they might consider outside of the guidelines or not in compliance with the many restrictions. 

    This is not to say you can't possibly have a good time here. It just might mean being a bit more diligent toward reviewing the potential legitimacy of your normal camping routine to ensure it meets with many restrictions and guidelines imposed, while also making yourself comfortable with some fairly regular surveillance during your stay here. These all being things we hoped to get away from while camping ourselves It just turned out to be a bit much for our particular liking.

  • Adeline M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Worthington State Forest Campground — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

    Nice campground loud campers

    Great open spot with some shade, depending on when you go we have noticed there tends to be a lot of loud disrespectful people who are there to party not camp. It’s nice to be on the Delaware and not many campgrounds have water access or a boat ramp so that’s a plus. Showers, sinks, and toilets are available.

  • Janine D.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Kittatinny Campground

    Not worth the money or time

    If we could rate this a 0 we would.  We were expecting a weekend of kayaking and relaxation when in fact we got an overcrowded, noisy and dirty weekend that was overpriced.  I will give the river a 10, it was beautiful, welcoming and refreshing in the warm sun.  We arrived at about 8:00 in the evening with several camps blaring different genre of music, not a problem, considering we still like it as loud as possible sometimes, but it didn't end at quiet time, it continue until well over midnight.  The campsites are so close together it was like being packed into a sardine can.  The campsite across the pathway didn't have their dog on a lead and we woke up with a pile of dog excrement next to our trailer, that was a howdy-do morning for ya.  We were super excited to take our kayaks out on the river, paddle up stream and float down with our pup, but we were told that we couldn't launch from this location.  (What kind of crap is that)  This location was a receiving location only and "absolutely no launching" was allowed.  If you are looking for a party spot to come with your friends, this is definitely the place for you!  If your looking for a chill place to camp next to the river where you can tube, kayak and enjoy your peaceful weekend, this is NOT the place.  The amount of money we spent for 2 nights was outrageous for such a sucky weekend, will not be going back!

  • Bob F.
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Moon Valley Campground

    Very unique smaller private campground

    This was a great campsite nestled in the foothills of Northern NJ on the NY border. Small, clean with great views and great location for hiking , cruising etc. Bring your tent or use the existing glamping tents. Headed back for a fall weekend in the "dome" which has incredible views. Try it you won't be sorry.

  • Carrie H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Panther Lake Camping Resort

    Horrid showers

    Probably the worst shower ever. The lights are timed. The water is a button. The space is small as hell.

  • Brittany V.
    Jul. 3, 2025

    Tri-State RV Park

    No frills layover spot

    This place is unique by location alone! We stopped for two nights on our way to CT. They have an onsite buffet with live entertainment if your timing is right. They are also located right on a river that you can easily access by foot. They have a decent laundry facility and full hook ups. No frills at the site but perfect for the commuting RVers just looking for somewhere safe to sleep for the night.

Guide to West Orange

Camping near West Orange, New Jersey, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Harriman State Park - Beaver Pond. One camper mentioned, "I enjoy the beach/lakefront, option for platform sites, and regularly cleaned bathroom and shower facilities."
  • Fishing: Spend a relaxing day fishing at Pickerel Point Campground - Promised Land State Park. A visitor shared, "The lake has fishing & boat rentals. No gas motors."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife at Turkey Swamp Park. One happy camper noted, "Wooded sites, restrooms with showers clean and well stocked. Peaceful family campground."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers at Camp Taylor Campground. A reviewer said, "Bathrooms were very clean and shower area as well."
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. One family remarked, "The family that operates this place are the friendliest and most accommodating hosts I have encountered."
  • Privacy: Campers often mention the spacious sites at High Point State Park Campground. A visitor stated, "Very private and excellent challenging trails!"

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Be mindful of noise, especially at High Point State Park Campground. One camper shared a frustrating experience: "We received complaints about the volume of our music and karaoke around 7 pm."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Worthington State Forest Campground, have limited facilities. A visitor noted, "The bathrooms are very outdated and not cleaned often enough."
  • Access Issues: Certain campgrounds may require a hike to reach your site. A camper at Round Valley State Park Campground mentioned, "The hike to get to the campground is a bit long (4 miles; we did it in ~2h)."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly activities. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner, one parent said, "This place is so much fun. My whole family loved the activities, awesome pools and water area."
  • Space to Play: Choose sites that offer room for kids to explore. A camper at Camp Taylor Campground mentioned, "The camping site we originally had booked was rather small, but the front desk was cordial and able to accommodate us by moving us to a bigger site."
  • Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours to ensure everyone has a good time. A visitor at Turkey Swamp Park noted, "It was quiet, the one family I met was so kind."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Road Conditions: Be prepared for unpaved roads at some campgrounds. A camper at Turkey Swamp Park mentioned, "None of the roads are paved. All are packed sand."
  • Space for Big Rigs: Look for campgrounds that accommodate larger RVs, like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner. A visitor shared, "Our site was spacious, level, waterfront, and partially shaded thanks to some mature trees."
  • Plan for Limited Connectivity: Be ready for spotty cell service and Wi-Fi at many campgrounds. A camper at Pickerel Point Campground noted, "Cell phone signal isn't all that great."

Camping around West Orange, NJ, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there dog-friendly campsites with lake access in West Orange?

Yes, several campgrounds near West Orange welcome dogs and offer lake access. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides wooded campsites with water and electric hookups in a dog-friendly environment. Located in New Jersey's Skylands, it's perfect for hiking with your four-legged companion. Turkey Swamp Park is another excellent option featuring a 17-acre lake where you can enjoy water activities while camping with your dog. Their spacious sites provide a comfortable setting for families and pets, with easy access to hiking trails throughout the 2,283-acre property.

Where are the best tent camping sites in West Orange?

The West Orange area offers several excellent tent camping options. High Point State Park Campground provides beautiful lakeside campsites with hiking and biking trails accessible directly from your tent. The park sits in New Jersey's scenic Skylands region, offering access to the Appalachian Trail and the state's highest point. For a more primitive experience, Stokes State Forest features the Steam Mill Camping Area with 27 sites specifically designed for tents or small trailers, tucked away in a quiet, wooded setting perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking solitude.

How much do campsites in West Orange typically cost?

Campsite costs near West Orange vary based on amenities and location. At Butterfly Camping Resort, a family-friendly private campground with activities and a fishing lake, expect to pay premium rates for their well-maintained sites with utilities. In contrast, Great Divide Campground offers scenic camping with lake and pond access at mid-range prices, though it tends to be on the more expensive side for private campgrounds in the area. For budget-friendly options, state and county parks like High Point or Turkey Swamp typically charge $20-35 per night for basic sites, with potential additional fees for non-residents or hookups.

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