Alternative camping experiences exist near Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, though equestrian options remain limited. The region sits at the Gateway to the Jersey Shore, with elevations ranging from sea level to 266 feet at the Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook. Most campgrounds in the area are open from April through November, with Turkey Swamp Park closing from November 16 to March 31 due to seasonal conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Turkey Swamp Park features a lake stocked for recreational fishing. "Turkey Swamp is a great spot, a lot of different things to do. Fishing, Tent Camp, Van Camping, Open Field, BBQ, Kayaking, Canoeing. The list goes on," notes reviewer Tylen L. at Turkey Swamp Park.
Archery practice: Several campgrounds offer archery facilities for visitors. Patrick M. mentions at Brendan Byrne State Forest, "We go every year. It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for. Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels."
Mountain biking trails: Multiple difficulty levels exist for mountain bikers. Beau B. explains, "Great camp ground and State Park. Very clean with professional staff. Lots to do in the area! Mountain Biking from easy, paved trails to several miles of single track with everything in between."
Winter activities: For off-season visitors, some parks offer winter recreation. Patrick M. mentions, "Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate well-spaced campsites. Lee D. shares about Turkey Swamp Park, "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."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers rank highly among visitors. Dan P. notes, "The bathrooms and showers here were in really good condition, well cleaned and stocked, and was pleasant to use!"
Winter cabin camping: Seasonal cabin options provide year-round camping possibilities. Erik M. describes, "I've stayed in the cabins here a couple times. Love the area lots to do hiking fishing nature walks, something for everyone. Cabins are no frills yet very nice no electricity they are equipped with 4 bunks a LG picnic table and a wood stove for heat."
Pine Barrens environment: The distinctive ecosystem appeals to nature enthusiasts. Benjamin K. from Brendan Byrne State Forest says, "It's in the great NJ pine barrens. This place is fantastic! The smells, the sounds, the wildlife. Love it."
What you should know
Tick prevalence: Several parks report tick issues, particularly during warmer months. Laura Y. warns, "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."
Limited equestrian camping: Equestrian camping near Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey requires careful planning as dedicated horse facilities are scarce. While some state forests have bridle paths, none of the closest campgrounds offer horse corrals or designated equestrian sites.
Seasonal restrictions: Campfire regulations may vary by season and location. One camper mentions, "Only weird rule I saw was that fires can only go from 6pm till 7am which was odd but wasn't a deal breaker."
Water access varies: Not all campsites have direct water hookups. Dan M. explains at Liberty Harbor RV Park, "Lots of potable water hydrants around the campground so not far of a walk to fill any water needs you may have."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Multiple parks offer play areas for children. Katheryn N. shares, "There are playgrounds and picnic areas as well. This is a lovely campground."
Bug management: Parents should prepare for insects, especially with young children. Jaewook P. offers a surprising observation: "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!"
Activity variety: Families benefit from multiple recreation options. Dan W. reports, "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."
Campsite selection: For families needing more space, certain sites offer advantages. According to Graham D., "Site came with fire pit, large picnic bench, and lamp stand. Plenty of parking space. Good tree coverage."
Tips from RVers
Urban access: RV travelers visiting New York City can find convenient options. Keith and Tia S. explain at Liberty Harbor RV Park, "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary between parks. Shawn at Turkey Swamp Park advises, "Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers."
Dump station access: Plan for sanitation needs carefully. Shawn B. notes, "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 spacing concerns: RV campers should consider proximity issues. Ericka T. warns, "Larger rigs will barely have a yard. And don't bet on a private picnic table. On a slow checkout day, you might get lucky enough to not wait in line for the dump station."
