RV parks near Westfield, New Jersey sit within the state's eastern corridor, approximately 16 miles southwest of Manhattan. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 70 to 120 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds remain operational from April through October with limited winter availability, requiring advance reservations during summer weekends when occupancy often reaches 100%.
What to do
Visit New York City attractions: 12-minute walk to PATH train from Liberty Harbor RV Park. The Manhattan skyline is visible from the campground, and quick transit options make city exploration convenient. "My wife visited Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The sites had electric and water and were in a fenced off section of tue marina parking area," notes Kevin A. Another visitor adds, "We spent 3 nights here last week. I was in NYC for business and we took our RV. Very convenient location."
Explore shoreline towns: 15-minute drive from Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center RV Sites. Access to beaches and coastal communities provides day-trip opportunities. "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," writes Jessica D.
Hike woodland trails: On-site at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. The reservation offers interconnected trails suitable for all skill levels. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," says Paulene-Amanda M. Another camper notes, "Make sure to visit Headley overlook and hike the awesome trials that surround the campsites!"
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers large, wooded campsites. The sites include platforms for tent camping and paved, mostly level areas for RVs. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that," explains one camper. Another adds, "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods a bit from the pad that you park on."
Military facilities for qualified users: NWS Earle RV Park provides well-maintained sites for service members. The campground features quality amenities at lower rates than commercial options. "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," shares Jeffrey. He adds, "Laundry facilities are free for use and in like new condition."
Farm setting with animals: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort offers a rural experience. Children particularly enjoy the farm animals and outdoor activities. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," reports Faith D. Another camper mentions, "Plenty to occupy the kids. Playground, hayride, animals to feed (goats, chickens, donkey and pony)."
What you should know
Urban campground challenges: Street navigation requires planning. Liberty Harbor RV Park provides city access but comes with urban complications. "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. The urban location also means noise levels are higher than traditional campgrounds.
Seasonal operation patterns: Most rv parks near Westfield, New Jersey operate from spring to fall. Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South runs from May 1 to October 31, while Military Park NJ National Guard operates Memorial Day to Labor Day. Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort maintains an April 1 to October 31 season.
Limited tent camping options: Majority of facilities cater to RVs. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers platforms for tent camping, while most other locations primarily serve RVs. When tent camping is available, reserved spots fill quickly during summer weekends. "I chose Mahlon Dickerson for my first solo trip. Super easy to book. They have these 12x12 platforms to put your tent on," notes Christina L.
Tips for camping with families
Book early for summer weekends: Reservations fill 2-3 months ahead. Family-friendly sites at Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort are particularly in demand. "Lots of seasonals and lots of cabins, many RV sites I think all with full hookups. A bit pricey," shares Janelle G. The campground offers organized activities for children throughout summer weekends.
Consider wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation posts bear warnings for campers with children. One family notes, "There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys." Safety measures include storing food in vehicles or bear-proof containers at night.
Pool availability varies by location: Call ahead to verify operational status. Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities with seasonal hours. At Pleasant Acres, a visitor appreciated "a great swimming pool" among the facility amenities. Another camper mentioned their children enjoyed the swimming options during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Connectivity challenges: Cell service varies drastically by provider. Timothy Lake South experiences inconsistent coverage. "Cell service is awful for AT&T and our T-Mobile gateway. Had to move to a new site to get away from the trees to get starlink connectivity," reports Nick E. Liberty Harbor offers better connectivity but experiences congestion during busy periods.
Dump station logistics: Plan for potential wait times. Many rv parks Westfield, New Jersey have limited dump facilities. At Timothy Lake South, a reviewer noted, "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use." Mahlon Dickerson features a more accessible option with a camper commenting, "The dump station has a flush hose point. Nice and easy little campground."
Site selection strategy: End rows provide more space at urban locations. At Liberty Harbor, space constraints make site selection important. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig," advises Keith and Tia S. Arriving early improves selection opportunities at first-come, first-served facilities.
