RV camping near West Orange, New Jersey offers accessibility to both urban attractions and natural settings. Located in Essex County at approximately 500 feet above sea level, the area experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers reaching into the 80s and winters that can drop below freezing. Local campgrounds range from urban parking lot setups to wooded reservations within an hour's drive of West Orange.
What to do
Visit Manhattan via public transit: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers convenience for city exploration. "Close to ferry for downtown and Statue of Liberty. People are very nice and accommodating. More of a stopping place to see the sites," notes Missy S.
Explore nearby outdoor recreation: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort provides pastoral activities for nature lovers. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool. Weekend was busy as usual but during the week it seems to be seasonal that stay," reports Faith D.
Take advantage of nearby hiking trails: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation features extensive trail systems. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful. Definitely come here when you get a chance," recommends Paulene-Amanda M.
What campers like
Waterfront views at military locations: NWS Earle RV Park offers unique waterfront settings. "Small campground W/ 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio," according to Jeffrey.
Urban convenience with transit access: Liberty Harbor RV Park stands out for city access. "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless," mentions Joe R.
Spacious, wooded sites at county parks: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation provides natural settings. "Very nice forest! The campground is clean, paved nicely and well run. Our site is easily the nicest- all the way in the back with only one neighbor. It is so quiet here," shares Greg S.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Some campgrounds have connectivity issues. "Cell service can be inconsistent at more rural locations like Mahlon Dickerson, where visitors report AT&T coverage of 1-2 bars and no satellite coverage due to heavy tree canopy."
Military base restrictions: Military campgrounds have specific requirements. "Even though the published rules state no long term leases there are a couple of trailers that haven't seen the road in some time. Rumor is that the base XO is a full timer posted up in one of the spaces," notes Jeffrey about NWS Earle RV Park.
Bear awareness necessary: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort and other rural campgrounds require proper precautions. "There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys," reports Greg S. about Mahlon Dickerson.
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters for kids: Pleasant Acres Farm offers interactive animal experiences. "Lots of seasonals and lots of cabins, many RV sites I think all with full hookups. Plenty to occupy the kids. Playground, hayride, animals to feed (goats, chickens, donkey and pony)," explains Janelle G.
Easy hiking for children: Mahlon Dickerson provides accessible trails. "There are plenty of trails, water (creeks, pond, lake) views and even if the place is packed there is PLENTY of room," says John S.
Urban educational opportunities: Black Bear RV Park serves as a base for city day trips. "I enjoyed my stay. Only one problem it's too over priced. I wish they would charge one price per month than $520 per week," mentions Sharon B., who used it as a base to visit family in the city.
Tips from RVers
Limited amenities during off-season: Winter camping means reduced services. "None of their amenities/buildings were open (I was warned about this when I reserved, so it was not a surprise). Unfortunately at this site, the heated water pipe was broken so we had no water for the night," reports Gabbie Y. about Black Bear RV Park.
Navigation challenges: Mountain Top RV Park and other rv parks near West Orange, New Jersey can present access issues. "When you leave you have to drive the wrong way in the campground because of the low hanging trees the correct direction," warns Bill B.
Ferry service to city landmarks: Liberty Harbor RV Park provides water transit options. "Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door," according to Emily L.
