Sue B.
Ranger
RangerWawayanda Group Shelter
Appalachian Trail Shelter/Campsite
This is an A.T. shelter and campsite. First come, first served. Privy was nice. Flat tentsites for 6 or more. Good for Hammocking also.
Best Campgrounds in New Jersey
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
New Jersey state parks and forests offer a range of camping options from primitive tent sites to full-service RV campgrounds with cabin rentals. Worthington State Forest Campground in the Delaware Water Gap provides tent and RV camping with basic amenities, while Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold Township features electric hookups, water connections, and cabin accommodations. Stokes State Forest maintains year-round camping with sites for tents, RVs, and cabin rentals. Many New Jersey campgrounds support mixed-use approaches, allowing visitors to choose between various accommodation types at a single location.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout New Jersey, with most state forest campgrounds operating from April through October or November. Some locations like Stokes State Forest and Belleplain State Forest remain open year-round, though winter camping requires preparation for cold conditions. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for summer weekends and holidays when waterfront sites fill quickly. Cell service varies significantly by location, with remote forest campgrounds often having limited connectivity. As one camper noted, "There is little to no signal inside the park. But once you drive out, you will have some signal. The campsite is close to a Walmart and a few other restaurants, which is good."
Campers frequently mention the privacy and spaciousness of sites at Belleplain State Forest, with one review highlighting "HUGE sites with trees and a lot of privacy from the road and neighbors." Many state forest campgrounds provide access to hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and swimming areas. Cape May area campgrounds like Sun Outdoors Cape May offer proximity to beaches with full hookup sites. Bathroom and shower facilities vary widely between campgrounds, with state park facilities sometimes receiving mixed reviews for cleanliness and maintenance. Campers should note that dump station facilities at some state parks may be limited, potentially causing delays during busy checkout periods. The proximity of many New Jersey campgrounds to urban areas makes them convenient for weekend getaways while still providing natural settings.
Best Camping Sites in New Jersey (169)
1. Worthington State Forest Campground — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
39 ReviewsShawnee on Delaware, PAWebsite"Full bathrooms are located behind campsite #15 (clean flushing bathrooms, with motion-sensed lighting, showers, dishwashing sink), but easily accessible from campsites nearby."
"Bathrooms with flush toilets are conveniently located centrally every so often."
2. Turkey Swamp Park
31 ReviewsFreehold, NJWebsite+1 (732) 462-7286$42 - $79 / night
"We stayed in New Jersey for our 5th campground on the East Coast: Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold. This is a County park.
Near some Revolutionary War battlefields.
I really liked this park!"
"Heavily wooded and supremely quiet, it’s located not far from anywhere you’d want to be. 30 minutes to the shore. Every site is a pull-through, large and spacious with great woodland views. 30amp and"
3. Stokes State Forest
28 ReviewsLayton, NJWebsite$7 - $55 / night
"It was a solid choice: private but close to the toilet and water. Some sites located around the opposite side of the ring back up to a babbling brook. The rushing water will soothe you to sleep."
"We stayed at the campsite at Lake Ocquittunk Area. Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents."
4. Round Valley State Park Campground
25 ReviewsLebanon, NJWebsite+1 (908) 236-6355"The crystal-clear water is home to huge lake trout and the forests are bursting with wildlife. The sunsets across the lake are to die for."
"Once you get to the campground trail it’s pretty easy going on asphalt surface."
5. Sun Outdoors Cape May
26 ReviewsTabernacle, NJWebsite+1 (609) 886-1234"Stayed in a drive through, patio site with full hook-ups. It was situated on a corner spot. A lot of RV, golf cart, bike, and people traffic due to the location."
"The front of the park is close to the pool and store- if pool noise is a concern you should stay further back. A mix of seasonal,"cabins" and overnight camping. Park was very clean."
6. Camp Taylor Campground
24 ReviewsPahaquarry, NJWebsite+1 (908) 496-4333$33 - $42 / night
"Positives: sites are decent sized with fire pits and picnic tables. easy access to hiking, convenient to a beautiful vineyard, peaceful region, and the most amazing wolf preserve is right next to you. "
"They were knowledgeable about the surrounding towns, their campground, and basically everything nature related. This was our very first night camping in an RV (we were renters at the time)."
7. Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest
24 ReviewsHammonton, NJWebsite+1 (609) 268-0444"Atsion Family Campground Off US 206 and about 1/2 a mile up Atsion Road in New Jersey’s Wharton State Forest, you’ll find the Atsion Family Campground."
"It was a great location, closest site to the water with beautiful views. Super convenient if you're a Kayaker, you can launch right off that spot. Its a huge site, away from other sites."
8. High Point State Park Campground
24 ReviewsMatamoras, PAWebsite+1 (973) 875-4800$5 - $20 / night
"Beautiful park with in the skylands region of New Jersey. Great campsites on a lake, with lots of hiking and biking trails right from your site."
"There are about 40 to 50 sites around Sawmill Lake. Many of these sites , like ours, are walk in sites (about a 50 yard walk) that sit lakeside."
9. Belleplain State Forest
22 ReviewsWoodbine, NJWebsite+1 (609) 861-2404"They allowed me to drive around first and pick out a campsite before checking in. They charge $5 extra for a dog. So far it is very quiet and that's what I was looking for."
"Very nice campground tucked away in southern NJ. Clean facilities. Plenty of space for our tent. lake for swimming and you can rent boats. nice hiking trails and playground."
10. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA
21 ReviewsPaulsboro, NJWebsite+1 (856) 423-6677"We did Chinatown and walked part of the Schuylkill River trail which we accessed by parking near Fairmount Park."
"In addition to the peaceful vibe, the people are friendly, the little office store has everything you forgot to pack, and if you look around the campground edges or follow the walking trail into the woods"
Recent Camping Photos in New Jersey
468 Photos of 169 New Jersey Campgrounds
Dominic G.
Moon Valley Campground
Kimberly M.
Great Divide Campground
Stacy D.
Old Cedar Campground
Janelle G.
Camp Taylor Campground
Adeline M.
Sandyston Boat In Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Jim B.
Camp Carr Campground
Jessica A.
Baker's Acres Campground
Dorian P.
Brendan Byrne State Forest
Jin J.
Mountainview Campground
Barbara S.
Stephens State Park Campground
Elke P.
The Depot Travel Park
Amy C.
Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest
Recent Reviews in New Jersey
983 Reviews of 169 New Jersey Campgrounds
- Sue B.Ranger
Camp Mohican Outdoor Center — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Great lodging options and trails!
I've visited the MOC a bunch of times, and have taken training classes here also. There are campsites for tent camping, cabin stays where you can rent a whole cabin or rent a bunk in a cabin with others. There is a store as well as food options. It's a great place to visit whether you grab a meal, a bunk, or just take a hike. The Appalachian Trail crosses through here also.
John L.
ScoutWading Pines Camping Resort
Poor sites
I recently stayed at Site 36, and unfortunately, my experience was very disappointing. The biggest issue was the campsite itself. Site 36 is extremely small, with neighboring campers only about 5 feet away on one side and roughly 12 feet behind the site. There was very little privacy, which made it difficult to relax. Many of the nearby sites appeared to be occupied by long-term or permanent residents. Several had large amounts of personal belongings stored under tarps, giving the area an unkempt appearance. In addition, the neighboring campsite had children's bikes, large toys, and other miscellaneous items overflowing onto the site I had rented, making it feel even more cramped. Another major concern was the constant cigarette and marijuana smoke. It was noticeable throughout much of the day, and because of the smoke, I couldn't comfortably leave my camper windows open. At over $110 per night for a full hookup site, I expected a much better experience. I understand the campground told me there were no other sites available, although I did notice a few empty sites during my stay. Whether those sites were reserved or unavailable for another reason, I can't say, but Site 346 should not be rented at this price given its condition and lack of privacy. Overall, I would not stay here again and cannot recommend to anyone looking for a relaxing camping experience. Its great for daily tubing but as a camper they lock the fence that gets you to the bridge so you have to take a long walk around although non campers can pull right up, it makes no sense to have a pass through that's locked.
Laura W.ScoutPomona RV Park and Campground
Small
Pulled in like noooo it’s super small tight but here for a week in a cabin kids had a great time nice people pool and weekend activities. We would come back
- AAimee K.
TravelerTurkey Swamp Park
Great Park
Beautiful park and very peaceful. Rangers are super friendly. This is exactly what camping should be.
ryan H.ScoutGodfrey Bridge — Wharton State Forest
Primitive, vehicle accessible campground
$10/night for out of staters. About 30 well spaced sites. Every site has fire ring, some places half shaded. Pit toilets spaced around the campground. No water. Great cell service (5G) with Verizon
S G.ScoutMahlon Dickerson Reservation
Primitive
The main issue with the sites was that they were primitive -- no water. The campsites were basically just wooden platforms, with a picnic table and fire pit. There were also a lot of bugs, though this may be due to the rain. The location itself was fairly pretty and there were a number of hiking trails of not-overly-serious difficulty. The particular site we picked left is a little farther from our car than we would have liked, but for other sites you can bring your car closer.
Frank J.TravelerSwartswood State Park Campground
The campground is open
The campground was closed in 2024 for renovations. It is now open. I did a tour of the campgrounds but did not stay there. FYI, generators are NOT allowed at all at this campground. I did not see electric or water hookups. There are three loops. Each has it pros/cons. Sites 30-33 are near the bathroom facilities, sites 34-50 are more secluded, sites 52-65 are closer to the lake.
Greg Z.TravelerSussex County Fair Grounds
Rock Ribs and Ridges 2026
We’re here for the Rock, Ribs, and Ridges festival and what a great experience! Make sure to bring a 50’ power cord as the hook ups are grouped together on telephone poles rather than at each individual site. As far as I know camping is only available during select events.
Guide to New Jersey
Camping in New Jersey offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there's something for everyone.
What to do
- Hiking and Trails: Many campgrounds, like Round Valley State Park Campground, have trails that lead to stunning views. One camper mentioned, “The hike in was a tough one! Weather was 95 and sunny on the hike in, which didn't make it any easier.”
- Fishing and Boating: Campgrounds such as Turkey Swamp Park offer lakes for fishing and boat rentals. A reviewer said, “The lake has fishing & boat rentals. No gas motors.”
- Wildlife Watching: Many parks are home to diverse wildlife. One visitor at Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest noted, “The grounds were lovely and a majority of the sites were generously sized.”
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Mahlon Dickerson Reservation stated, “The campground is clean, paved nicely and well run.”
- Secluded Sites: Many enjoy the privacy offered by certain campgrounds. One camper at Mountainview Campground said, “Sites are huge and very private. You didn’t even know that there were people around you.”
- Friendly Staff: Campgrounds like Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA are known for their helpful staff. A visitor shared, “Everyone we came in contact with staff wise was so friendly.”
What you should know
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Bass River State Forest, may have basic facilities. A camper mentioned, “The bathroom (shower room?) was reasonably clean, but I have only been to this camp site, so there is no comparison.”
- Bugs in Summer: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. One camper at Bass River noted, “There were many bugs and many of them got in my tent as I forgot to zip the door after setting it up.”
- Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near roads, which can lead to noise. A review from Cheesequake State Park Campground mentioned, “While the campsite is fairly well protected from highway noise, you're still going to hear it at least a little.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Parks like Turkey Swamp Park have playgrounds and activities for kids. A reviewer said, “There’s a nice playground in the campground.”
- Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or games to keep kids entertained. One family at Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area enjoyed biking, stating, “We used the bikes we brought to ride the well-kept trail.”
- Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can help keep everyone happy. A camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation mentioned, “The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Hookups: Make sure your chosen campground has the right hookups for your RV. A reviewer at Mountainview Campground noted, “Electric and water hookups were a little far apart at site 27.”
- Be Prepared for Road Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A camper at Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest mentioned, “There was car noise, but it wasn’t really an issue to us.”
- Bring Long Cables: If your site has distant hookups, long cables can save the day. One RV owner at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA appreciated the setup, saying, “The sites are large enough for large RVs.”
Camping in New Jersey can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find dispersed camping in New Jersey?
Where can I find dispersed camping in New Jersey?
Dispersed camping options in New Jersey are limited but available. Lower Forge Camp offers a true backcountry experience in the Pine Barrens, requiring a 5+ mile backpack from Atsion or 7 miles from Batsto. Located on the Batsto River, you can even boat in to this remote site. Another option is Round Valley State Park Campground, which features boat-in and hike-in wilderness sites. For most dispersed camping in New Jersey, permits are required and you must practice Leave No Trace principles. State forests like Wharton and Stokes may offer primitive camping areas, but these typically have designated sites rather than true dispersed camping.
What are the best tent camping sites in New Jersey?
What are the best tent camping sites in New Jersey?
Belleplain State Forest offers excellent tent camping with spacious, wooded sites and is conveniently located a short drive from Cape May and Ocean City beaches. The check-in process allows you to drive around and select your preferred site before committing. High Point State Park Campground in the Skylands region provides beautiful lakeside tent sites with direct access to numerous hiking and biking trails. You can hike to the monument at New Jersey's highest point or explore sections of the Appalachian Trail. Other noteworthy tent camping destinations include Stokes State Forest for its remote feel while still being accessible and Worthington State Forest along the Delaware Water Gap for its scenic beauty.
Is year-round camping available in New Jersey?
Is year-round camping available in New Jersey?
Year-round camping options in New Jersey are limited but available. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation in the Skylands offers year-round camping with paved, mostly level sites featuring water and electric hookups. The wooded, spacious campsites make it ideal for winter camping adventures. Many other campgrounds like Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA close for winter, typically reopening in April, though exact closure dates vary and should be verified directly with the park. Private RV resorts like Beachcomber and Ocean View generally operate seasonally. State parks and forests often have reduced winter operations with limited facilities. Always call ahead during off-season months as services, water availability, and road maintenance may be restricted even at year-round campgrounds.
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