RV camping near New York City offers proximity to urban attractions while providing natural escapes within a 90-minute drive radius. The region features diverse terrain from coastal plains to highlands, with elevations ranging from sea level to over 1,300 feet at points in Harriman State Park. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with humidity, while fall brings cooler camping conditions and colorful foliage across the area's mixed deciduous forests.
What to Do
Hiking trails: Clarence Fahnestock State Park features multiple trail options with varying difficulty levels. "Great hiking and a lake you can get to and swim in right from the campsite. If you are in to apple picking it is a short drive and it is easy to get into town to take the train to and from NYC," notes Asher K. about the park's accessibility.
Beach access: NWS Earle RV Park provides convenient beach access. "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," reports Jessica D., highlighting the shoreline amenities near this military campground.
Wildlife viewing: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, the wooded setting supports abundant wildlife. "There are a lot of bear warnings here so that gave us a bit of pause with our three little boys," mentions Greg S., emphasizing the importance of wildlife awareness when camping at this location.
NYC day trips: Skyline RV Camp - Non-Waterfront serves as a base for city exploration, though recent changes have affected its appeal. "Be advised that Skyline RV Camp has moved to: 50 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222. The original property location at 2 Oak St was sold and is now private property," warns John T., noting the relocation has eliminated the once-advertised skyline views.
What Campers Like
Natural setting: Beaver Pond Campground offers secluded sites despite its popularity. "The campground offers several different sites, from platform tent spaces to those for 25' trailers. All sites have a standard picnic table and fire ring," notes Steve W., describing the campground's accommodations.
Proximity to transportation: Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort provides a convenient location for those wanting to visit urban areas. "Great location. Great scenery. Full hook ups, animal petting and good fishing," Scott N. shares about this northern New Jersey option with scenic views.
Privacy between sites: Clarence Fahnestock State Park features well-spaced camping areas. "All sites were so different. There was a storm the night before our arrival date, all campers were evacuated and they did a fantastic job clearing all the debris and downed trees before our arrival," Erinn N. explains, highlighting both site variety and maintenance.
Off-season peacefulness: Beaver Pond Campground changes character throughout the year. "Ranger said that during summer weekends the grounds fill up and can be quite noisy, but mid-week during the off-season it was great," Rebecca S. notes about her September stay, suggesting timing considerations for those seeking tranquility.
What You Should Know
Site quality varies: Black Bear RV Park offers full hookups but conditions may fluctuate. "This is a pricey park, but options are limited. As in almost non existent. This is a prime location for visiting the city or heading down the shore," explains Wyndie G., who visited during construction upgrades.
Wildlife management practices: Some parks implement controversial wildlife control. "The park staff said they have not considered an alternative to killing. 'Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,'" JBird B. reports regarding Clarence Fahnestock State Park's approach to managing geese populations.
Seasonal closures: Many facilities reduce operations after summer. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite. Clean and beautiful," Courtney D. notes about Clarence Fahnestock, pointing out this seasonal perk for campers.
Traffic and navigation challenges: Getting to campsites often involves navigating congestion. "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," Joe R. advises about reaching Liberty Harbor RV Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Choose weekday stays: Campgrounds near NYC experience significant weekend crowding. "We stayed here on a Thursday night in September prior to taking off backpacking. The campground was clean and quiet," shares Rebecca S. about Beaver Pond, highlighting how timing affects the experience.
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer specific family activities. "Lots of seasonals and lots of cabins, many RV sites I think all with full hookups. There were some organized activities which was nice, not as much as a Jellystone Park," Janelle G. mentions about Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort.
Consider site locations carefully: At Pleasant Acres Farm RV Resort, the layout affects convenience. "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," Coffee&Camping T. warns about potential walking distances for families.
Check for swimming options: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas that appeal to families. "We have been going here for over 2 years and we love it. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," Paulene-Amanda M. shares about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation's water access.
Tips from RVers
Plan for hookup limitations: RVers need to prepare for varying service levels. "Very clean and quiet. 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," antruze reports about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Prepare for tight spaces: Many NYC-area campgrounds maximize capacity. "The sites can be a bit tight, at times and you may find a few visitors, not necessarily on two legs, but always a delight," Elliot G. mentions about Beaver Pond's spacing and wildlife visitors.
Budget appropriately: Sites near NYC command premium prices. "They offered us site 60 instead, which we went to survey and noticed there was no fire pit or picnic table at that site. We let the front office know and the guy we were dealing with was a little abrasive, but ultimately gave us a different site which was much nicer," Sammi A. shares about Clarence Fahnestock, highlighting the importance of checking site amenities upon arrival.
