Camping spots near Allenwood, New Jersey range from basic state park facilities to more developed resorts with extensive amenities for campers of all types. The sand-based soils in this region can create muddy conditions during rainy periods, which typically occur from late spring through early fall. Insect activity peaks in July and August when temperatures regularly reach 90°F, making insect repellent essential during peak camping season.
What to do
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park features dedicated archery facilities for visitors seeking outdoor target practice. "They do have an archery range and a council ring (campfire). There is a dump station and laundry facility with brand-new washers and dryers (however, you need to pay using an app on your phone)," notes one Turkey Swamp Park visitor.
Ice skating: Winter visitors to some parks can enjoy seasonal ice activities when conditions permit. "We go every year. It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for. Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," reports a camper about Turkey Swamp Park.
Historic village exploration: Some nearby campgrounds offer access to cultural attractions with historical significance. A visitor to Allaire State Park mentions, "Working village and antique train are available most of the year. There are also lots of festivals throughout the summer months."
Beach access: Military installations with camping facilities provide direct shore access without the usual crowds. "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 a visitor at Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Many campers appreciate the natural screening between sites at certain campgrounds. "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site," notes a Turkey Swamp Park camper.
Lake activities: Water recreation opportunities rank highly among visitor experiences. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," shares a visitor from Turkey Swamp Park.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean restrooms and updated amenities are frequently mentioned as positive features. A Butterfly Camping Resort visitor notes, "The campground was very well taken care of. The sites had good tree coverage and we didn't feel like we were right on top of the next site. There was tons of stuff to do."
Four-season camping options: Unlike many seasonal operations, some parks remain open year-round. "We found this campground one night when we were in NJ. It ended up snowing that night. The bathrooms were clean and warm. There is a lot to do in the area," shares an Allaire State Park visitor about winter camping.
What you should know
Sand-based terrain challenges: The natural soil composition affects camping comfort and equipment. "All roads and camper pads are dirt. As mentioned, all roads are dirt, which was a bit surprising. They were well-maintained and in dry weather, not a problem, but probably not if it was rainy," a Turkey Swamp Park visitor explains.
Insect concerns: Depending on season and location, ticks can be a significant issue. "I was so excited when we got here. The sites are spacious and it's really beautiful. But by the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2," warns a visitor at Turkey Swamp Park.
Traffic noise: Some campgrounds, particularly those near major highways, experience constant road noise. A Cheesequake State Park visitor notes, "Used a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic with the exception of some sports cars/motorcycles speeding loudly."
Varying shower facilities: Bathroom and shower amenities differ significantly between locations. "The bathrooms don't have shelves and the showers are not very convenient. You have to come out practically naked to get your towel. And since none of the sites have sewers you have to use them," reports a Turkey Swamp Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Some campgrounds offer extensive organized events, especially on weekends. A Timberland Lake Campground visitor shares, "We LOVE camping here in the fall!! They do their own haunted walk through that is just awesome! Everyone decorates. They have a DJ every Saturday! Plenty of activities for the kids."
Bug preparation: Insect repellent strategies vary by season and location. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite! The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!" reports a Turkey Swamp Park visitor from late summer.
Age-appropriate amenities: Playground facilities and recreational options vary widely between locations. "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. Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door," notes a Turkey Swamp Park visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Some locations have resident wildlife that may appeal to children while requiring appropriate caution. A Military Park visitor warns, "TONS of geese everywhere though. Pets are NOT allowed (but they'd probably help w the geese problem)."
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: RV campers should note potential challenges with utility connections. A visitor to NWS Earle RV Park observed, "Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection."
Sewer connection height: Some facilities have unusual drainage setups requiring additional equipment. "Only annoying thing was the sewer hookup is about 18 inches off the ground so you need to lift the hose when emptying the tanks to ensure it actually fully drains," notes a Military Park visitor.
Site surface considerations: The predominantly sandy soil in the region affects setup and maintenance. "The sites are sand and dirt, so be prepared for that," advises a Timberland Lake visitor, while another camper notes, "Sand… so hard even with rugs to pull out of trailer."
Water hookup extensions: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for water connections. "Nicely wooded with water and electric. Be sure to bring extra hose because the water spigot is a distance from the electric," shares a Turkey Swamp Park visitor.
