Camping near Avenel, New Jersey offers alternatives to traditional developed campgrounds, including primitive sites and specialty accommodations within 45 miles of the metropolitan area. With elevations generally below 100 feet above sea level, most campsites in central New Jersey feature flat terrain with sandy or dirt surfaces. The camping season typically runs April through November with summer humidity levels averaging 65-75% during peak season.
What to do
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park provides dedicated archery facilities where campers can practice their skills. One visitor mentioned, "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."
Kayaking on local waterways: Round Valley State Park Campground features a 2,350-acre reservoir for water activities. As one camper described, "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water."
Overnight in fragrant surroundings: For a unique experience, camp near lavender fields at Pleasant Valley Lavender. "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods with. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ," noted one visitor.
Public transportation to NYC: Some campgrounds offer convenient city access. At Liberty Harbor RV Park, "The light rail is a block away, and the path train is about 8. Having a view of Lady Liberty out your window is priceless," according to one camper.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural spacing at certain campgrounds. At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings set back in the woods a bit from the pad that you park on. The water hoses provided are plenty long."
Proximity to beaches: Several camping areas offer access to coastal areas. One camper at Allaire State Park mentioned, "A really nice bike ride to Ocean Grove and other beach towns. There are outlets in the bathroom and someone put a fullass drip coffee machine in one of the sinks."
Wilderness camping options: Backpackers appreciate the more remote sites. One camper described Round Valley State Park Campground: "This is a great campground that is super private and quiet - great for getting out to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort!"
Convenient ferry access: Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area provides unique transit opportunities. A visitor noted, "This campground is amazing. You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a nigh light."
What you should know
Noise levels vary significantly: Highway proximity affects many camping experiences. At Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, a visitor observed: "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."
Tick prevalence: Wildlife concerns include insects at certain locations. One camper at Turkey Swamp Park reported: "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."
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Campers should prepare for minimal amenities at some locations. At Round Valley State Park Campground, a visitor noted: "While there are backwoods-style bathroom pits, these are very ill-managed and you'll come across the 'stank' well before actually even arriving here, so we just didn't use them."
Advance reservations crucial: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially those with limited sites. At Staten Island Gateway, "The camp here has 7 campsites here and it fill up really fast. I came at 5 in the morning and there was already a family there."
Tips for camping with families
Starter-friendly options: Turkey Swamp Park provides amenities suitable for new campers. "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."
Multiple playgrounds: Some parks offer dedicated children's areas. Turkey Swamp Park features "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door. Staff was awesome! Attentive and outgoing."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences. At Sandy Hook, one visitor highlighted: "The history housed on this base, with a hanger were full of old planes where dedicated veterans worked diligently to restore them, provided us up close inspection of multiple planes."
Winter camping options: Some facilities remain open year-round. A camper at Allaire State Park shared: "Getting a cabin in the winter and going for a snowy hike is wondrful there."
Tips from RVers
Urban RV options: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers urban camping with city views. "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."
Dump station access: Practical considerations include sanitation facilities. At Liberty Harbor, a camper noted: "There is a dump station, but not the easiest to use. The laundry was not working properly and ate a good $5 of our quarters."
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend specific spots for comfort. "Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room. If it's packed, your neighbor with be within inches of your rig."
Tunnel toll avoidance: Save on access fees when approaching with larger vehicles. "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."
