RV camping near Winfield, New Jersey places travelers within 30 miles of both the Atlantic coast and New York City. The region sits at the transition between coastal plains and the Watchung Mountains, with elevations ranging from near sea level to 400 feet. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, though limited options exist for winter camping.
What to do
Hiking trails access: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, walking paths connect directly to campground areas. "We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," notes a visitor who frequently camps with family and pets.
Farm animal encounters: At Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, visitors can interact with various farm animals. "The farm has goats, a donkey, and a pony within the campground. Very cool," writes one camper. Another adds: "The amazingly beautiful miniature horse that wonders around its huge pin located in the middle of the campground."
City excursions: From Liberty Harbor RV Park, accessing Manhattan requires minimal driving. "There is a ferry 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," explains one visitor.
What campers like
Concrete pads: The military campground at NWS Earle RV Park receives praise for its level sites. "All spaces are level concrete with full hookups and attached concrete patio. Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right)," notes one military camper.
Wildlife viewing: Black Bear RV Park provides opportunities to spot local fauna. "The best part was at dusk when the animals came out!" writes one visitor who stayed during campground renovations.
Quiet surroundings: Less crowded options provide peaceful environments. "It is so quiet here. No amenities or extras here, just really pleasant camping in the woods," reports a Mahlon Dickerson visitor. Another adds: "Even if the place is packed there is PLENTY of room."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Street construction can complicate arrival at urban campgrounds. At Liberty Harbor, one camper noted: "The area itself was under a ton of construction when we drove in, which meant for difficult to navigate roads and we barely squeezed by larger trucks who were also in the roadways."
Limited facilities: Several campgrounds restrict amenities during off-season periods. "The office, playground, dog park, pool, laundry are located at the top of the hill. Camping spots are downhill, a good distance from the office and amenities," explains a Pleasant Acres visitor.
Alcohol policies: Rules vary significantly between parks. One Mahlon Dickerson camper warned: "Campground rules do not list anything about alcohol on the website or the emailed rules given after reservation, however there is an alcohol prohibited sign as you enter."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education: Black Bear RV Park provides natural learning opportunities despite its relatively high fees. "It will be beautiful when they're finished. Can't wait to come back and give them a 5 star review! The best part was at dusk when the animals came out!"
Activity planning: Pleasant Acres organizes regular events. "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)."
Bear awareness: Northern New Jersey parks require wildlife precautions. "There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys," reports a family at Mahlon Dickerson.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center RV Sites operates seasonally. "9 sites total & they are often booked, so need to do so in advance," advises one visitor who also noted: "The sewer hookup is about 18 inches off the ground so you need to lift the hose when emptying the tanks."
Water connection length: Bring extension hoses for some parks. "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," explains a Mahlon Dickerson visitor.
Transportation planning: For RV campers seeking city access, Liberty Harbor provides transit options. "There is a light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8," notes one reviewer who recommends planning arrival routes carefully to avoid tunnel tolls.
