Bayonne, New Jersey offers several camping options within relatively close proximity to New York City. Located at sea level along the Upper New York Bay, the area experiences humid summers and mild to cold winters with occasional coastal storms. Most campgrounds near Bayonne operate seasonally, typically closing between November and April due to weather conditions.
What to do
Beach access and swimming: At Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, campers can enjoy ocean swimming with lifeguard supervision during summer months. "The ocean is close with lifeguards. Good fishing and pleasant people. Boat from New York City," notes stanleyt S.
Hiking trail options: Cheesequake State Park Campground features several walking paths through diverse ecosystems. "The park has a few great trails. The trails range from easy to moderate with quite a few lookout locations. The elevation of the trails is not too strenuous," according to one reviewer.
Water recreation: Turkey Swamp Park provides a lake for various activities according to Dan W.: "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from."
Exploring urban areas: From Liberty Harbor RV Park, campers can access New York attractions. "My wife visited Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The sites had electric and water and were in a fenced off section of the marina parking area," shares Kevin A.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Many reviewers appreciate the layout at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. John S. states, "Even if the place is packed there is PLENTY of room. The price makes it even better."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the maintenance standards at Turkey Swamp Park. A recent visitor notes, "The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!"
Water views: Beaver Pond Campground offers scenic settings. According to Megan B., the area is "surprisingly beautiful and quaint. Free Hot showers in the bathrooms, with plenty of room to change."
Outdoor activities: Multiple campgrounds provide recreation options. Graham D. comments on Turkey Swamp Park: "Site came with fire pit, large picnic bench, and lamp stand. Plenty of parking space. Good tree coverage."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campsites near Bayonne, New Jersey fill quickly, especially during peak season. Advance booking is essential for Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, where sites have limited availability.
Site conditions: Some campgrounds have specific site limitations. Craig M. notes about Sandy Hook: "The campground is rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite."
Seasonal concerns: Ticks can be an issue at certain locations. A visitor to Turkey Swamp Park reports: "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper."
Noise levels: Urban-adjacent campsites often experience traffic sounds. At Cheesequake State Park, one camper observed: "The Parkway is right there so it's not a nice quiet place."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Cheesequake State Park Campground offers kid-friendly facilities. One reviewer mentions it's "a great site for those who are not avid campers. It's close to town if you forget something and it has all the facilities you may need."
Swimming options: Sandy beaches provide safe recreation for children. Maggie A. shares about Sandy Hook: "Sandy Hook has all the necessities you need, bathroom, shower, and the occasional food truck. There is even a trail that runs parallel to the beach making it a scenic ride."
Clean bathroom access: For families with small children, look for campgrounds with well-maintained facilities. Lee D. describes Turkey Swamp Park: "Very clean. Soap and paper towels are provided. The only thing missing were hooks or shelves for toiletries but there was a large bench that could be used."
Wildlife awareness: Families should prepare for local wildlife. Zorina N. mentions about Beaver Pond Campground: "Your phone will have signal" which helps when needing to research or report wildlife sightings.
Tips from RVers
Parking conditions: Many RVers note the surface conditions at campgrounds. The reviewer antruze explains about Mahlon Dickerson Reservation: "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station."
Urban access: For RVers wanting city access, Skyline RV Camp - Waterfront provides unique proximity. Amy P. shares: "It's essentially a spacious parking lot with electrical pedestals but the view of the skyline across the water is spectacular and there's a metro station within a 10-minute walk."
Hookup availability: Water access can require planning. One reviewer notes about Mahlon Dickerson: "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."
Transit options: RVers appreciate transportation choices near Liberty Harbor. Emily L. states: "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."
